The Badminton Tour Diaries: Friday

It's the end of dressage day two at Mars Badminton 2025 — and the leaderboard is taking shape. Today on the Badminton Tour Diaries, Nicole and Diarm catch up on the standout performances so far, including Oliver Townend's test with Cooley Rosalent taking him into the lead going into Saturday. From shifting averages to judging patterns, they break down what it all means heading into the weekend. We also check in with Eco Voltz rider Joseph Murphy, who reflects on his two rides — including the promising young Belline Fighting Spirit — and gives us insight into his prep for cross-country day (spoiler: e-bikes are a game-changer). Selina Milnes talks about Gelmer's sensitive side and shares her cross-country thoughts ahead of Saturday's test, while Lucy Miles joins us in the YETI Grooms' Corner with a brilliant behind-the-scenes look at Tayla Mason's whirlwind Badminton debut with Centennial — from waitlist drama to family reunions and team Kiwi spirit. Highlights: Personal Bests & Predictions – Nicole and Diarm unpack dressage day 2 Joseph Murphy – Two horses, one busy week, and a bold Saturday ahead The Gelmer Game Plan – Selina Milnes on managing nerves and big fences Grooms Behind the Scenes with YETI – Lucy Miles on grooming, motherhood, and five-star life Guests: Diarmuid Byrne – EquiRatings co-founder Joseph Murphy – Eco Voltz rider and five-star competitor Selina Milnes – Five-star rider Lucy Miles – Former head groom for Team Price, now grooming for Tayla Mason Nicole Brown – Host, EquiRatings Eventing Podcast The Eventing Podcast Badminton Podcast Diaries are brought to you by Eco Voltz, Voltaire Design, 247 Clothing Direct, and YETI — brands that support the sport and the stories that shape it. Eco Voltz – Makers of premium electric bikes for countryside life and competition days. Visit them at Stand 44 or explore the range at www.ecovoltz.co.uk. Voltaire Design – Handcrafted French saddles trusted by elite riders across the world. Find them at Stand 243 and online at www.voltairedesign.com. 247 Clothing Direct – Premium custom clothing designed with style, quality and performance in mind. They're not exhibiting this year, but you can browse the range at https://www.247clothingdirect.co.uk/  EquiRatings Eventing Podcast: Don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook. 👀 Want more insights, picks, and data-driven takes? Follow @equiratings_eventing for your ultimate Badminton companion.