Profiles
William began riding ponies as a child on the family farm in Ashford, Kent. He was born into a farming and hunting family. When he was not doing farm duties as a child he would ride the family ponies. At age 16 he had the choice of leaving school to start farming, or show jumping. When Cyril Light of the Brendon Stud in Sussex offered him a job as second stable jockey to show jumper Simon Trent, he chose the latter option.
William now has his own yard near Ewhurst in Surrey, where he produces over 40 foals a year in conjunction with The Billy Stud (a joint venture between himself, wife Pippa and Donal Barnwell). He claims to “always” have in excess of 100 horses for sale ranging from four year olds to international show jumpers. William is a regular on the British Nations Cup team and won a team European Gold medal on his first outing to a major championship in 2013.
Fast Facts
2013 European Team Gold medallist with Billy Congo
2nd 2013 Cannes and Monte Carlo GCT Grand Prix with Billo Congo
2012 Donetsk World Cup Qualifier Grand Prix winner with Billy Congo
2nd 2012 Bourg en Bresse Grand Prix with Billy Angelo
2011 La Bagnaia Grand Prix winner with Billy Angelo
2006 and 2008 Hickstead Jumping Derby winner
William is married to eventing star Pippa Funnell
William has a range of riding attire named after him, from jackets to breeches and blousons
William has been competing on the Tour since 2009