An Eventful Life filmed at Defender Burghley Horse Trials 2026 – order your full cross country video here
In a fitting ceremony on the arena where he had celebrated so much success, the 19-year-old grey gelding Ballaghmor Class, was officially retired at Defender Burghley Horse Trials on Sunday 6th September.
Ridden by former world number one Oliver Townend, the pair enjoyed a phenomenal partnership, winning Burghley twice (2017 and 2023), landing Kentucky and Maryland CCI5* titles (2021 and 2024) and helping Great Britain secure a first Olympic eventing team medal gold for 49 years alongside Laura Collett and Tom McEwen at Tokyo 2020.
Ballaghmor Class's stunning Burghley victory in 2017 was achieved on the horse's CCI5* debut - he subsequently recorded a remarkable 10 consecutive top-five finishes at CCI5* level and delivered 13 clear cross-country rounds in a row - highlighting his iconic status. Have a wonderful retirement Ballaghmor Class!
Why was Ballaghmor Class' stable name 'Thomas'? Find out more about how he came to Oliver Townend's yard here
