Unveiling Lewis Robertson-Carrier: Britain’s National Dressage Champion
In the spirited world of British equestrian sports, Lewis Robertson-Carrier has emerged as a shining new star. Alongside his devoted horse Diego V, he captured the national title at the 2024 LeMieux National Dressage Championships. This remarkable achievement is not just a solitary victory but the high point of a journey marked by relentless dedication, perseverance, and a love for dressage.
The Serendipitous Start
Lewis Robertson-Carrier's entrance into the realm of dressage was far from predictable. Without a background in equestrian activities, his passion for riding emerged by chance when he took lessons at a local school in Norfolk. This introduction laid the groundwork for his future when he acquired a pony, setting the stage for his noteworthy pursuits. The defining moment arrived at age 15, when Lewis began a partnership with Diego V, a horse recommended by the renowned Carl Hester. Their partnership would grow to become the bedrock of his acclaimed career.
Emergence and Evolution
Guided by eminent trainers like Diana Fisher, Micheal Eilberg, and eventually Carl Hester himself, Lewis and Diego climbed from novice levels to the senior grand prix. Their path wasn't without hurdles; Diego, initially more prankster than professional, transformed into a trusted and remarkable competitor. Their debut national title was clinched in 2015, marking a key milestone for this fabulous duo.
Mentorship: The Secret Ingredient
Lewis’s path to professional excellence was paved by mentorship from leading figures in the sport. His substantial time with legends like the Eilberg family and Anna Ross honed his skills, underscoring the pivotal role of mentorship in equestrian sports. Interestingly, Lewis's trajectory could have derailed into acting — he was once offered roles, even one in "Oliver Twist". Yet, his fervent commitment to dressage charted his current path.
Triumph at the National Championships
At the heart-stopping 2024 LeMieux National Dressage Championships, Lewis and Diego V triumphed as national champions. The event culminated in a fierce competition judged by scores from the grand prix and the Kudos grand prix freestyle. Despite facing an unusual hiccup in the canter pirouette, Lewis's resilience and adaptability saw them maintain their superior standing, clutching the top championship spot with a score that outshone Gareth Hughes's nearly flawless freestyle.
Interwoven Personal Milestones
Lewis’s saga is deeply entwined with his personal story, particularly his bond with his now-wife Olivia (Liv) Robertson-Carrier. Their collective moments in the dressage ring blossomed into a shared personal journey, enriching the narrative of Lewis’s professional achievements. Celebrating their victory with Olivia by his side added emotional depth to their hard-earned success.
Envisioning Future Success
Looking ahead, Lewis remains hopeful about Diego's future potential. At 16, Diego feels as though he’s just hitting his peak performance, with Lewis confident about further improvements over the ensuing years. This enduring partnership, over a decade in the making, speaks volumes about the strength of commitment, teamwork, and expert guidance in reaching elite levels in equestrian sports.
Lewis Robertson-Carrier’s journey is a beacon of inspiration for budding equestrians, underscoring the profound reality that success in the competitive arena is often born from long-term dedication, the right mentors, and an unbreakable bond between horse and rider.
For more detailed insights, you can explore Lewis's story and other success stories in the dressage world at the Horse & Hound website.
