Harry Charles aiming for 2020 Olympics

Harry Charles says he wants to follow in his father’s footsteps and compete for Team GB in the Olympics.

Big plans

The 16-year-old is son of 2012 team gold medallist Peter, and the two of them have big plans for his future.

“We agreed last year my main goal is to try and get to Tokyo in 2020 for the Olympics,” said Harry. “I’ve got one more year in juniors and then I need to build up to senior level.

“Hopefully we can get some horses and get funded by owners, and build up to it and see what happens.”

‘Huge achievement’

Harry has already won two medals for his country, taking individual silver and team bronze at theEuropean Junior Championships in Austria this summer.

“That was the highlight of my career so far,” he said. “It was a huge achievement and one I’ve always wanted.

Competing against the best in Europe and being able to beat them puts you in a good position and it fills you with confidence.”

Harry is competing at HOYS this week, and has a lot to live up to as he won the Leading Pony Showjumper of the Year in 2014.

‘Loads of potential’

He came fourth in the Blue Chip Pony Newcomers yesterday (7 October) riding a six-year-old chestnut mare called Phoenix, the youngest pony in the competition.

“She has loads of potential,” said Harry. “Now we’re stepping it up a gear and jumping her in the Pony Foxhunter on Saturday.

“I don’t think it will be a big problem to her, she’ll cruise round. I think she will be a very good pony for the future.”