EIGHT-time Australian Olympian Andrew Hoy was the headline attraction as Hartpury University hosted a major equine sports science summit on Sunday (October 18), bringing together leading researchers, clinicians and equestrian professionals.

The Equine Sports Science Summit took place at Hartpury's International Arena, with a programme dedicated to improving understanding of the relationship between horses and riders.

Hoy gave a lecture demonstration exploring his training methods and experiences competing at the highest level of international eventing.

The six-time Olympic medallist, including three golds, has enjoyed a career spanning more than four decades.

The summit's programme combined scientific research with practical demonstrations, focusing on how riding equipment, training techniques and rider movement could influence horse welfare and performance.

Specialists including Dr Russell MacKechnie-Guire, Dr David Marlin and Mark Fisher were among those featured in the programme, which examined saddle pressure, rein tension and the interaction between horses and riders.

The event also brought together expertise from veterinary science, biomechanics and equestrian coaching, highlighting the importance of collaboration in improving performance and protecting horses from injury.

Practical workshops were organised around subjects including rider symmetry, saddle slip, polework exercises, hoof and surface interaction and equine fitness programmes.

Other sessions focused on saddle fitting and rider performance, providing opportunities for delegates to explore how scientific findings could be applied in everyday equestrian practice.

The summit was aimed at coaches, veterinary professionals, therapists, saddle fitters, horse owners and riders seeking to develop their understanding of equine sports science.

Organised by Centaur Biomechanics, the event placed particular emphasis on making academic research accessible through practical learning and demonstrations.

Hartpury's specialist equestrian facilities provided the setting for the gathering, reflecting the university's established involvement in equine education, research and sporting performance.

The summit formed part of wider efforts within the equestrian industry to improve horse welfare through scientific understanding and evidence-based training practices.