Talk Horse

This week, we’re joined by bestselling author Felix Francis, son of legendary jockey and crime writer Dick Francis.

Felix takes us inside an extraordinary family story, from his father’s infamous ride on Devon Loch in the 1956 Grand National to growing up in what he calls “the greatest fiction factory of the 20th century.” He reveals how racing became the backdrop to the Dick Francis novels and how he eventually found himself secretly taking on the challenge of continuing his father’s work.

He also shares the story behind writing his first Dick Francis novel, the pressure of following in his father’s footsteps and how his latest book, The Chase, combines the worlds of racing, crime and art.Plus, Felix explains the lengths he goes to when researching his novels, why getting the racing right matters so much and offers his best advice for aspiring writers.

The Chase is available in all good bookshops now!
www.amazon.co.uk/Chase-gripping-master-racing-thriller/dp/1785125915/

To get the best discount off your NordVPN plan - go to nordvpn.com/talkhorse - Our link will also give you 4 extra months on the 2-year plan and there's no risk with Nord’s 30 day money-back guarantee!
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Welcome back to another Free Rein Friday on Talk Horse! 🐴✨

This week, Pippa and Tristan look back on 50 years of the South of England Horse Trials from early childhood memories to the behind-the-scenes realities of event prep.

South of England Horse Trials are happening this weekend 26th and 27th of Sept.

Plus, Pippa answers your listener questions on how to build confidence and bravery in young or nervous horses, and shares expert advice on mastering cross-country pace without losing control. To wrap things up, Tristan reveals which equestrian legends belong on reality TV, followed by another hilarious round of the Lone Ranger game!

🎟️ LONDON INTERNATIONAL HORSE SHOW:
Get ready for the Christmas party of the equestrian world! Use code TALKHORSE10 for 10% off your tickets

📱 SPONSOR - SAILY eSIM:
Stay connected wherever you travel without roaming fees. Download the Saily app or visit saily.com and use code TALKHORSE at checkout for 15% off your first purchase!

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS:
0:00 - Welcome to Free Rein Friday
0:32 - 50 Years of South of England & Childhood Memories
4:46 - London International Horse Show Updates
5:28 - Saily eSIM
6:50 - How Do You Teach a Horse to Be Brave?
10:50 - Tips for Learning to Ride at Cross-Country Pace
13:54 - Which Equestrian Would Survive Reality TV?
17:09 - The Lone Ranger Game: Mexico & Lithuania
20:30 - Wrap Up & Weekend Plans

💬 Have a question for Pippa or Tristan? Send in your voice notes or drop a comment below for next week’s Free Rein Friday!

🔔 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share Talk Horse with your fellow equestrians!

#TalkHorse #PippaFunnell #TristanPhipps #Eventing #EquestrianPodcast #CrossCountry #HorseRiding
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This week, we’re joined by record-breaking jockey Hollie Doyle, who has become one of the biggest names in British racing.

Hollie takes us back to her early days in pony racing, winning on her very first ride and the years of hard graft that followed. She opens up about the drive and resilience it takes to succeed as a female jockey, breaking records and the relentless nature of life in racing.

She also reflects on some of the horses and moments that have shaped her career, including her first Group 1 with Glen Shiel, as well as the injury that has temporarily taken her out of the saddle and why she’s more determined than ever to get back racing.

🌎 Get an exclusive 15% discount on Saily data plans! Use the code TALKHORSE at checkout. Download the Saily app or visit: https://saily.com/talkhorse
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Pippa and Tristan catch up on a packed week in the equestrian world:

Asian Games Countdown: Pippa shares the behind-the-scenes prep and travel logistics heading out to Japan.

Burghley Highlights: Reflecting on past Burghley memories and celebrating Gemma Stevens' emotional and well-deserved five-star win with Chilli Knight.

The Olympic Name Story: Pippa explains the hilarious (and slightly awkward) story behind her name change ahead of the Athens Olympic Games.

To get the best discount off your NordVPN plan - go to nordvpn.com/talkhorse - Our link will also give you 4 extra months on the 2-year plan and there's no risk with Nord’s 30 day money-back guarantee!

🎟️ London International Horse Show Tickets: Use code TALKHORSE10 at checkout for a discount on tickets: https://londonhorseshow.com/
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Recorded live at the Defender Burghley Horse Trials, Pippa and Tristan are joined by one of eventing’s biggest stars, Ros Canter. Ros reflects on the moments that have shaped her remarkable career, from Olympic glory and championship success to the horses and people who helped her along the way.

She also shares what it takes to perform under pressure, how she builds a partnership with each horse and what makes Burghley such a unique and formidable challenge. Plus, Ros reveals what it's like juggling life as a mother of two whilst being one of the best eventers in the world.

To get the best discount off your NordVPN plan - go to nordvpn.com/talkhorse - Our link will also give you 4 extra months on the 2-year plan and there's no risk with Nord’s 30 day money-back guarantee!
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