Piggy French

Internationally successful eventing rider Piggy March (also known by her maiden name, French) has won numerous medals from some of the world’s biggest equestrian competitions. Representing Great Britain, she has been a key part of gold-medal-winning teams at the World Equestrian Games and European Championships. She has also won individual gold medals at the World Young Horse Championships, Badminton Horse Trials, and most recently, the 2022 Burghley Horse Trials. She has twice been chosen to be part of Team GB at the Olympic Games, but unfortunately, she has had to pull out on both occasions due to issues with her horse. She runs a stud and event yard in Northamptonshire.

March was born Georgina French in August 1980 and grew up in the beautiful Norfolk village of North Elmham. She was christened Piggy as a toddler by her sisters, who thought she looked like Piglet from Winnie the Pooh. The nickname stuck and is the name she uses for riding. She made her first impression on the international scene back in 2001 when she was part of the British team that won gold at the European Young Rider Championships. She began competing in CSI5* events the following year.

March’s first taste of individual gold came when she won the 2007 World Young Horse Championships. She was part of the British team that competed at the 2010 World Equestrian Games and was selected for the 2012 London Olympics but had to withdraw when her horse was injured. Despite similar issues at the 2020 Olympics, she is still enjoying huge success and acclaim on the international eventing circuit.