Early Promise and Professional Beginnings
Ben Maher, born on January 30, 1983, in Enfield, England, showed early promise in riding. Despite his family’s non-equestrian background, he excelled in pony classes and turned professional at 17. Maher’s first job in the equestrian world was working for British Olympic showjumper Liz Edgar when he was just 14 years old. He credits this experience with laying the foundation for his career.
Rising Star in Young Rider Competitions
Representing Great Britain, Maher won team gold and individual silver at the European Young Rider Championships. His strategic prowess and cool under pressure marked him as a rising star. Maher rode notable horses like “Tripple X III” and “Cella” during his ascent in the sport, securing victories in national and international competitions.
Triumphant Partnerships
Ben Maher’s career is punctuated by remarkable partnerships with top-class horses, leading to numerous achievements and accolades in the world of showjumping. Notably, Maher formed successful partnerships with horses like “Tripple X III,” “Cella,” and “Explosion W.”
“Tripple X III,” owned by Jane Forbes Clark, played a significant role in Maher’s career, helping him secure victories in prestigious competitions such as the Longines Global Champions Tour (LGCT) Grand Prix of London and the World Cup Qualifier in Verona. Together, they were instrumental in winning team gold at the 2013 European Championships.
Another standout partnership was with “Cella,” owned by Jane Clark. Maher and Cella achieved numerous Grand Prix victories, including those at Olympia, Spruce Meadows, and Wellington. They were part of the British team that won team gold at the 2013 European Championships and the 2016 Furusiyya FEI Nations Cup Final in Barcelona.
In recent years, Maher’s partnership with “Explosion W,” owned by Poden Farms, has been extraordinary. They secured several victories in LGCT events, including the Grand Prix of Madrid and the LGCT Super Grand Prix in Prague. Their most significant triumph came in 2021 when they clinched individual gold at the Tokyo Olympics, cementing their status as one of the world’s top combinations.
World Number 1
Ben Maher reached the number 1 ranking in the FEI Longines World Rankings in July 2013. He held the top spot for a total of six weeks, showcasing his dominance in the sport during that period. This achievement solidified his status as one of the best showjumpers in the world at that time.
Other Interests and Ventures
Maher has a passion for art and has dabbled in painting. He finds it to be a relaxing hobby outside of his riding career. in addition to his riding career, Maher is involved in various equestrian business ventures. He co-founded the training and sales company, Four Seasons Stables, based in Essex, England.
Maher is actively involved in charitable endeavors. He has supported organizations like the Brooke, an equine welfare charity, and has participated in fundraising events to raise awareness and funds for various causes.Despite his demanding schedule, Maher prioritizes spending time with his family. He often shares glimpses of his personal life on social media, showing his love for his wife and children.
Ben’s Highlights from 2022
Ben schooling an inexperienced showjumper
Ben schooling a young horse
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