Olympic medallists Carl Hester, Becky Moody and Richard Davison to headline Defender Dressage Masterclass at Windsor Castle
The Defender Dressage Masterclass is set to return to Royal Windsor Horse Show 2026, taking place from 14-17 May 2026 in the private grounds of Windsor Castle. Renowned for blending world-class equestrian sport with heritage displays and family entertainment, the Show will once again provide a spectacular stage for one of the most anticipated Dressage events on the British sporting calendar.
The Masterclass will bring together seven‑time Olympian Carl Hester MBE, four‑time Olympian Richard Davison, and Olympic bronze medallist and World Cup‑winning crowd‑favourite Becky Moody!
Olympic riders share elite Freestyle Dressage expertise
Opening the Masterclass, Davison will explore one of the most influential and often misunderstood elements of Freestyle Dressage: music selection. Audiences will gain valuable insight into how the right musical choice enhances rhythm, expression and harmony between horse and rider, playing a critical role in championship-level performances.
Following Davison’s introduction, Hester will ride the Freestyle test he hopes will secure selection for this summer’s FEI World Championships in Aachen. One of Britain’s most decorated Dressage riders, Hester will demonstrate the precision, partnership and technical excellence required to compete on the global stage, offering spectators a front-row view of elite preparation in action.
Hester will be joined by his Paris 2024 Olympic teammate Becky Moody, who will also present her Freestyle test during the session. As an Olympic team medallist, Moody has rapidly established herself among the leading figures in international Dressage, consistently delivering standout performances at championship level. Renowned for her polished presentation, technical accuracy and exceptional horsemanship, her appearance adds further excitement and depth to an already compelling Masterclass line-up.
The Masterclass will conclude with an engaging conversation between the riders, sharing insights into Freestyle strategy, their competitive mindset and their hopes as they set their sights on Aachen in August.
Becky Moody in the Defender Dressage Masterclass during the Royal Windsor Horse Show in Partnership with Defender, held in the private grounds of Windsor Castle in Windsor in Berkshire in the UK between 15th – 18th May 2025
A Highlight of Royal Windsor Horse Show 2026
First staged in 1943, the Royal Windsor Horse Show now welcomes more than 55,000 visitors annually and remains a cornerstone of the British equestrian calendar. The 2026 Show will once again feature an exceptional programme of international competition, including CSI5 Show Jumping*, CAIO4 Carriage Driving* and CEI3 Endurance*, alongside more than 120 Showing classes and a varied programme of displays and performances.
With its unique blend of elite sport, heritage and entertainment, the Royal Windsor Horse Show continues to attract riders and spectators from around the world. The Defender Dressage Masterclass perfectly encapsulates this spirit, offering audiences a rare opportunity to witness the artistry, preparation and performance standards that define championship-level Freestyle Dressage.
