Chatting with Laura Woodcock

Based on the Lincolnshire/Nottinghamshire border, British international dressage rider Laura Woodcock spends her days on a small family yard, where she has run her coaching and training livery business for the past eleven years. Alongside competing very successfully with highlights including being selected for Team GB as a Young Rider, becoming Reserve National Champion and U25 National Champion, becoming a five-time regional champion and coaching the winning BD Team Quest National Champions, Laura has also bred two foals from her own broodmare which are currently under saddle. She has also backed a horse which is currently competing at medium level. Producing horses from just broken to top competition level is a particular passion for Laura.  

How did horses come into your life?

I started riding at the age of five with my aunt, who had horses. After a winter of early mornings at the yard, my parents bought me my first pony for my sixth birthday. I was drawn to dressage by the perfectionism and harmony it requires. When I was thirteen, we bought the mare I still have today. With her, I competed at the Nationals at every level from Prelim to Intermediate I and earned international team selections.

When and where do you ride?

  I ride every day from my parents’ home.

Who do you train with?

I train regularly with Charlie Hutton, aiming to spend a few days each month working with him.

What are you and your horses currently working on?

 

• Lady(a homebred by Glamourdale): Turning 4 next year, she’ll be quietly introduced to the world of competitions.
• Prince(her full brother by Negro): Preparing for his first Regionals at Prelim and stepping up to Novice level.
• Buzz: Competing at Medium level in high-profile shows and Regionals, with plans to move to Advanced Medium in spring.

What do you love about riding?

I love the unique partnership between horse and rider and the way we communicate without words.

What are your future goals?

My ultimate dream is to produce a horse to competitive Grand Prix level and achieving that on a homebred would be the pinnacle for me.

Your Top Tip

Be patient and focus on the basics—everything else will follow naturally.

What is the best advice you’ve ever been given?

Enjoy every ride. It’s about the journey, not the destination. Time at the top is short, so savour every stage along the way.

Do you have rituals before competing?

I don’t rely on luck but believe in preparation. As I have my Level 3 in sports psychology, I’m big on organisation, time management, and visualisation. With the right mindset, you create your own success.

Who is in your support team?

My parents are my greatest supporters, helping with everything from financial assistance and lorry driving to mucking out. I couldn’t do it without them. I’m also fortunate to have the support of my farrier, Tom Bradbury, who has sponsored me for many years. His expertise and willingness to discuss ideas have been invaluable.

What challenges have you faced on your dressage journey?

The most difficult moment was losing a horse I adored—one I had competed successfully at Advanced Medium—to colic surgery.

What notable experiences have you enjoyed so far?

I’ve had the privilege of training with some of the best trainers in the country and building a successful business from home.

Down The Centre Line

 

Who would be your dream horse to ride?

Glamourdale

Who is your equestrian hero?

Jessica Von Bredow Werndl

If you could have five people to dinner, who would they be?

Jessica Von Brendow Werndl, Cathrine Laudrup-Dufour, Carl Hedin, Taylor Swift, Harry Styles

Favourite horse event?

Sheepgate U25 Championships although now I am too old, but any Youth riders shouldn’t miss it.

Want More?

If you enjoyed meeting Laura you might like to view more dressage rider “chatting with” interviews here .  You can keep up with Laura’s progress and check out her instagram page here