Harry Meade - I never imagined that I would recover in time for the WEG
THIS time last year Britain’s Harry Meade was in hospital with two shattered elbows, the result of a horrific rotational fall. The prognosis was poor and his surgeons believed that he would probably never ride again. We caught up with Harry shortly after his arrival at Le Pin National Stud.
After your accident did you ever imagine that you would ride at the World Equestrian Games?
Not in a million years. My accident [at Wellington Horse Trials] happened exactly a year ago — to the day — and for months I was completely incapacitated. There was total uncertainty afterwards and my surgeons told me to start thinking about an alternative career.
How well have your elbows healed?
Very well. They feel good when I’m on a horse and I’m not aware of anything wrong with them when I’m riding but I do feel them when I’m on the ground doing chores. I’ve had four operations now and I go for more X-rays next week.
Where were you when you got your late call up to the British team?
I was competing at Wilton Horse Trials. It was a real landmark in my career but I didn’t want to get too excited in case we didn’t get here. However, we are here and it’s a great feeling to be in France with all the British horses in one piece.
What have you done with Wild Lone since your third placing at Badminton?
He had a bit of a break which was followed by quiet runs at Barbury and Aachen.
What are your impressions of Le Pin National Stud?
It’s a great venue but it’s already clear that the terrain is going to play a big part in the competition. The ground has been left saturated by the recent rain.
Your father Richard won numerous World Championship medals. Has he given you any advice for your World Games debut?
Not really, although he did tell me to treat it like any other competition. I am aware of my horse’s capabilities, though, and I’ll be giving it my best shot.
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