In a true demonstration of honoring legacy by creating good from tragedy, those who loved the late Georgie Campbell (a British four-star rider who died in a cross country accident in 2024) set up The Georgie Campbell Foundation with the goal to help other riders get their start as professionals, as well as champion ongoing safety initiatives throughout the sport.
To that end, applications were opened for an inaugural bursary structured over a two-year period to provide financial support to event riders whose careers and businesses are in the early stages. Preference was given to those who had not previously received substantial financial support or benefits from programs like the British World Class Programme. The Foundation’s goal of providing support goes beyond straight cash — its goal is to help produce well-rounded professionals who can create sustainable businesses to make their living froom.
Following an extensive review of the 60+ applications received for this bursary, eight candidates were invited to interview as the final stage of selection. A panel made up of Georgie’s husband, Jesse Campbell, New Zealand Olympic rider Jonelle Price and entrepreneur Dr. Catharine Denning subsequently selected 25-year-old Wiltshire-based Oliver “Ollie” Thompson as the inaugural recipient.
Ollie Thompson and Lagans Rice Star. Photo: ESP Photographic
“He demonstrates a lot of the attributes that we felt were in line with ‘a young Georgie’,” the panel stated in a press release. “Ollie conveyed a strong work ethic, positive mindset, and real love for his horses and the sport of eventing. We therefore think he makes the perfect first Georgie Campbell Foundation beneficiary and are looking forward to seeing his journey unfold with the Foundation’s support.”
Ollie Thompson has competed to the CCI4* level with his top horse, Lagans Rice Star, after starting out as many do on ponies when he was much younger. He’s now developed a string of younger horses and will now receive benefits from the Foundation including mentoring and training from the Georgie Campbell Foundation and a carefully curated group of specialists. Support will be uniquely tailored to him, structured around the development of an individual performance and business plan. Focus areas will include business planning, financial management, attracting and retaining owners and sponsors, social media marketing, and managing staff, as well as identifying and working with talented young horses.
“I’m excited and grateful to have been selected as the first Georgie Campbell Foundation beneficiary,” Ollie said in a press release. “It’s such an amazing opportunity for me to grow my business and be able to reach my full potential. I’m keen to start learning from everyone involved, pushing myself this season and next, and making the most of all the support and opportunities ahead. I would like to thank the committee, and all involved for putting their faith in me moving forward.”
Further updates from Ollie’s journey as well as information on future application windows and other endeavors by The Georgie Campbell Foundation can be found here.
