Tina Wallace’s Badminton Prep with Banksy
For Badminton Horse Trials, preparation is everything. And for eventer and SEIB Ambassador Tina Wallace, this year’s journey to the LeMieux Grassroots Championships has been about far more than just training. It’s been about patience, adaptability, and partnership.
Alongside her 18-year-old (turning 19) horse Banksy, Tina is heading back to Badminton for the 100 LeMieux Grassroots Championships, having previously competed in the 90 class in 2024.
A Year of Setbacks, and a Comeback
Tina made the decision to sit out Badminton 2025 after discovering that Banksy was suffering from ulcers. What followed was a period of treatment, recovery, and careful management to get him back to full health.
Through SEIB’s Classic Horse Insurance, Tina was able to claim for Banksy’s treatment and medication, giving her the peace of mind to focus fully on his recovery.
Now, with Banksy back feeling “fit, fresh and fabulous,” the pair are ready to return to one of the most iconic stages in eventing.
Training Smarter, Not Harder
This year, Tina’s preparation has looked a little different, and deliberately so. With Banksy’s age, Tina has focused on a “less is more” approach:
“Our training plan this time round has looked slightly different to when we did the 90 championships in 2024 cause I am conscious that Banksy boy does turn 19 next month. We have been keeping on top of the fitness with hillwork, beach rides and short and sweet schooling sessions at home. We mainly only jump at competitions or when we go for training sessions.“
“We are going for quality over quantity. Less is more.”
The One Thing That Changed Everything
Rather than relying on a specific exercise, Tina highlights something simpler, but incredibly effective: Her position.
Following surgery before Christmas, Tina has become much more aware of how her own posture impacts Banksy’s balance and way of going.
Her focus has been on:
- Sitting tall
- Keeping her shoulders back
- Maintaining correct head position and vision (not looking down)
“I’m far more aware of how much my upper body position impacts him… and it’s had a huge effect on both of our ways of going.”
Final Preparations Ahead of Badminton
In the lead-up to the event, Tina and Banksy are keeping things simple and consistent, including a final dressage lesson before heading to Badminton. The focus is all on maintaining confidence, rhythm, and partnership.
Tina’s Top Tips for First-Time Badminton Riders
For those heading to Badminton for the first time, Tina’s advice is honest and grounded:
- Embrace the nerves
“Nerves are a privilege. We’re so lucky to do what we do.” - Focus on the experience
“Riding at Badminton is something special, take it in.” - Breathe, smile, and enjoy it
“It’s such an amazing opportunity… enjoy it with your precious fur babies.”
As Tina prepares to head up to Badminton once again, it’s clear her main focus is on partnership, resilience, and making the most of every moment at the prestigious event.
All of us at SEIB Insurance Brokers will be cheering Tina and Banksy on every stride!
About SEIB
SEIB Insurance Brokers has been providing insurance for Horses for over 60 years. We provide a flexible range of Horsebox Insurance and Horse Trailer Insurance policies to suit your needs. Our experienced team of horse owners can help provide you with advice on what cover you might need.
