Grassroots Show: Mastering Cross-Country Speed with Sam Watson

Cross-country speed. Everyone wants it. Very few riders really understand how to build it.

On this episode of the Grassroots Podcast, Cameron Beer sits down with Sam Watson to unpack what actually makes riders fast across country, and why speed has far less to do with bravery than most people think.

From cruising speed and balance, to transitions, footwork, stamina, and course walking, Sam breaks down the systems, habits, and mindset that helped him become one of the sport's best against the clock. There are stories from Burghley, Badminton, the World Championships, plenty of honest mistakes, and practical takeaways every grassroots rider can use this season.

Because getting the time isn't about chasing. It's about understanding.

Highlights

Sam's five pillars of cross-country speed
Why "practice until you don't get it wrong" shaped his riding
The biggest mistakes riders make when chasing the clock
How to train speed at home, safely and progressively
Course walking tricks that save seconds without taking risks
Why smooth rounds are often the fastest rounds
This week's Grassroots Challenge, Sam's Gear Challenge

Guest

Sam Watson, Irish Olympian, World medalist, and EquiRatings analyst

Presented by Foran Equine, part of the Connolly's RED MILLS family.

EquiRatings Eventing Podcast: Follow the EquiRatings Eventing Podcast for more data-led insight, top-tier guests, and everything you need to keep up with the 2026 season on Instagram and Facebook.

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