Equine Sports Science Summit
Sunday 18th October 2026
Review of the 2026 Summit
Details for the 2027 Summit (Sunday 3rd October) will be shared early 2027
Equine Sports Science Summit puts research into practice as Centaur Biomechanics celebrates 20 years
From saddle pressure and hoof balance to pole work and performance longevity, the sold-out Equine Sports Science Summit brought the latest research to life at Hartpury University on Sunday 18 October. Organised by Centaur Biomechanics as part of its 20th anniversary celebrations, the summit brought together leading researchers, veterinary professionals, coaches and riders to explore the theme of Horse, Saddle and Rider Interaction. With an emphasis on translating scientific research into practical applications, the programme combined live demonstrations, interactive workshops, rider testing and expert discussions, culminating in a masterclass from eight-time Olympian and multiple Olympic medallist Andrew Hoy.
Understanding horse, saddle and rider interaction
Opening the day, Centaur Biomechanics founder Dr Russell MacKechnie-Guire welcomed delegates before equine veterinary surgeon Dr Rachel Murray explored the influence of tack and equipment on equine soundness and performance. Her presentation highlighted how pressure beneath the saddle changes throughout the horse's stride and during different movements, including jumping. She explained how poor saddle fit, instability and uneven pressure distribution can contribute to movement asymmetries, altered muscle development and reduced performance. The importance of considering the entire tack system, including girths, breastplates and bridles, was also emphasised.
The relationship between horse and rider was brought into sharp focus during a live saddle pressure and rein tension demonstration. Using specialist pressure-mapping technology, delegates could see how pressure distribution changed during different exercises, revealing the potential influence of rider balance, asymmetry and movement on the horse.
Andrew Hoy on maintaining soundness and performance
One of the day's highlights was an insight into Andrew Hoy's approach to maintaining soundness and performance throughout a horse's career.
Drawing on more than four decades competing at the highest level, Andrew explained how his philosophy centres on putting soundness first, developing individual long-term training plans and carefully managing competition schedules. He emphasised that longevity is the ultimate measure of success and does not happen by chance, encouraging riders to focus on making small improvements across multiple areas rather than pursuing dramatic changes in one. His message that sometimes the fastest way forward is to slow down resonated with the summit's overarching theme of prioritising the horse's long-term wellbeing.
A multidisciplinary approach to assessment
A multidisciplinary demonstration brought together experts including equine veterinary surgeon Dr Rachel Murray, master saddler and saddle fitter Mark Fisher, British Horse Society Fellow and equestrian coach Erik MacKechnie-Guire FBHS, master farrier Ben Benson, rider physiotherapist Ash Wallace and chartered veterinary physiotherapist Kate Stevens to illustrate the importance of assessing the horse, saddle and rider as a complete system.
Each specialist approached the assessment from a different perspective, considering everything from hoof loading and saddle balance to rider biomechanics, movement quality, conformation and physical development.
Practical exercises to improve strength and stability
Practical workshops provided delegates with exercises they could take away and incorporate into their own training and management programmes.
During an evidence-based pole-work session, equine veterinary surgeon Dr Rachel Murray and Hartpury University equine biomechanics researcher Dr Vicki Walker demonstrated how carefully positioned poles can help improve core strength, stability and posture.
They highlighted the importance of matching pole distances to the individual horse, prioritising slow, controlled movement and keeping sessions short to avoid physical and mental fatigue.
Master farrier Ben Benson explored the relationship between hoof balance, conformation and performance, explaining how even small adjustments can influence movement and loading. He also discussed the growing use of alternative shoeing materials and the importance of tailoring farriery to each horse's individual requirements.
Chartered veterinary physiotherapist Kate Stevens demonstrated a range of exercises designed to improve equine strength and stability, including baited stretches, backing up, thoracic lifts, pelvic tilts and balance work, showing how programmes can be adapted to suit different horses.
Andrew Hoy masterclass
The summit concluded with Andrew Hoy returning to the arena for a masterclass featuring two contrasting event horses: seven-year-old Call It Cooley, a relatively new and sharp addition to his string, and his experienced 17-year-old Olympic partner Vassily de Lassos.
Through pole work, transitions, grids and jumping exercises, Andrew demonstrated how he adapts his approach to each horse's temperament, experience and physical needs. With Call It Cooley, he focused on developing adjustability and control through transitions, fan-shaped poles and bounce fences. With Vassily de Lassos, he showed how beginning with canter work can help loosen an older horse before progressing to trot work, flying changes and exercises to adjust the number of strides between fences.
Throughout the day, delegates could also explore scientific poster displays, specialist exhibitor stands and additional workshops, including a rider performance laboratory with equine exercise physiologist and researcher Dr David Marlin assessing balance and symmetry.
Translating research into practice
Reflecting on the summit, Dr Russell MacKechnie-Guire said: “Celebrating 20 years of Centaur Biomechanics with a sold-out summit was incredibly special. Our aim was to move beyond traditional presentations and demonstrate how scientific research can make a real difference to horses and riders in everyday practice.
“We are passionate about carrying out and sharing research that advances knowledge and understanding for the good of the horse. Seeing that research brought to life through demonstrations, workshops and discussions with experts from different disciplines was exactly what we hoped to achieve.
“We were particularly pleased that 99% of respondents to our feedback survey said they had gained new information they could apply to their own practice or horses. That is ultimately what this summit was about – turning research into meaningful, practical improvements in equine welfare, soundness and performance.”
The summit was supported by sponsors Fairfax Saddles, Neue Schule, Equigate, Agria, Animal Web, Equine Fitters Directory and the Society of Master Saddlers, whose involvement helped bring together industry professionals, researchers and practitioners for a day dedicated to advancing equine knowledge, welfare and performance.
Further information
Founded in 2006 by Dr Russell MacKechnie-Guire, Centaur Biomechanics combines scientific research with practical education to advance understanding of horse, saddle and rider interaction and improve equine welfare, soundness and performance. Horse owners, riders and equestrian professionals can access a wealth of free educational resources through its website, including evidence-based blogs, research publications, videos, podcasts and practical insights into equine biomechanics.
To find out more, visit www.centaurbiomechanics.co.uk.
Images of from previous events.
