Biography

British rider Helen Martin 47 (nee Cole) who is based near Calne in Wiltshire made her Badminton debut last year but did not complete. In 2023 with Badminton entry Andreas, Helen completed Blenheim 4*L and in 2022 won the 4*L in Kronenberg.

Helen a BHSI and busy BE accredited trainer has produced and competed horses to advanced level for over 20-years. When not working with the horses she helps with the day-to-day management of the family farm.

Helen is married to Philip Martin a farrier and fellow of the Worshipful Company of Farriers who has previously judged the ‘best shod’ horse at Badminton.

Helen trains with Maggie Doel Adam Kemp and Lizzel Winter and Caroline Moore.

Andreas is an 18-year-old Dutch-bred gelding. He is by Grasler Meister out of Rivette by the showjumper Jimtown, a son of Darco. He was originally started in eventing by Jay Halim with who he won his first two novice classes. After two seasons showjumping with Angie Thompson he was discovered by Helen’s husband in a showjumping yard and came to Helen as an eight-year-old. The pair enjoyed a successful first season at novice together in 2015 and have come through the levels since. Badminton 2023 was the first at the level for both horse and rider. Andreas is owned by farm accountant Lorna Soames a longstanding owner and supporter and former top level eventing groom. Andreas enjoys a morning snooze and is partial to a pot of yoghurt in his evening feed.