In Memoriam: Christopher Schofield

Christopher Schofield, who has died at the age of 90, was a loyal supporter of British Eventing’s Young Rider squad. He is pictured presenting the young rider trophy to Claire Bowley and Fair Share at Bramham Horse Trials in 1989. (Photo: Kit Houghton)

Christopher Schofield (GBR), former Chairman of Great Britain’s Young Rider Selectors programme, passed away on 4 January at the age of 90. Many young British Eventing riders enjoyed success during his leadership of the Young Rider Selectors programme, including William Fox-Pitt, Tina Cook and Pippa Funnell. Jane Holderness-Roddam, who secured team gold in Eventing for Great Britain at the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico City, remembers Christopher Schofield as "a truly great character, he was always incredibly enthusiastic and supportive and was always thrilled to hear how the Young Riders were getting on, even in more recent years. He was always there with wise words of advice for us all." Legendary junior and young Eventing trainer Gill Watson worked alongside Christopher as team trainer from 1981: "He was the backbone to all the British Young Riders success and really set the ball rolling,” she said. “To me, he was the most amazing supporter and friend."

The FEI expresses its sincere condolences to the family and friends of Christopher Schofield,to British Eventing and the British equestrian community.
 
The funeral service will be held at 11am on 13 January at St Mary The Virgin, Hambledon, Henley-on-Thames, Oxon, RG9 6RX, UK.