For all of those that think it’s all celebrity parties and stunning locations for the life of a showjumping commentator—well it’s partly true…
However, I’m sitting at my desk in yet another hotel, this time in Miami, with the fire alarms blaring as they run through a test, which is making me concerned about the safety of the glass on my desk and the wind outside is making my room sound like I’m living just off the runway at JFK airport.
The rigors of the Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, Fla., already seem a lifetime away but it was literally hours ago that we closed out the last class there.
For those that have never met me or heard of me (and that will be most of you!) you may have heard my voice at one time or another.
I’m lucky enough to have landed a string of jobs commentating for some of the best events in the world. From the Winter Equestrian Festival, to the Global Champions Tour, the Nations Cup Final (Spain) and even the Olympic Games. From Hickstead (despite rumors, I do live in England and I am very much English but with a well stamped passport) to the Royal Windsor Horse Show.
ADVERTISEMENT
The next few months are going to see me switching between TV work and arena announcing at a long succession of events—from Miami to Madrid, Mexico to Shanghai—and what I want to do is take you with me, to try and let you experience a little of what it’s like to spend your life racking up the air miles.
Sometimes it is the lifestyle we all dream of, as the sun beats down on South Shore, but it can also be holding it together in front of camera, as the wind is blowing sideways, in temperatures that could freeze your margarita. In all seriousness, I’m fortunate enough to see the best riders and horses in the world close-up, the real stars. It’s both a pleasure and privilege, whatever the weather.
So I look forward to taking you a trip around the globe. See you in departures!
Steven Wilde got his start in commentating in 2001 and has gone on to announce and commentate at some of the world’s biggest venues, in all the Olympic disciplines. His voice has been heard at Hickstead, Blenheim and Barbury Horse Trials, and the 2012 London Olympic Games. He grew up in the sport of show jumping, as his mother was an international rider, and he’s been successful at at organizing shows as well.
