Through the Owner's Eyes: Pete Cattell
You probably know the names — Major Milestone, Leonidas II, and MGH Zabaione. You’ve seen the rosettes, cheered for the flags, and maybe even followed their journeys. But have you ever wondered what those moments look like from the other side of the rope?
In the world of eventing, riders and horses often take centre stage - but behind most great combinations is an owner whose belief and support help make it all possible. In the newest Through the Owner's Eyes podcast we hear from Pete Cattell on his journey from the Rio Olympics to the backer of one of Ireland's future championship horse. This interview offers both inspiration and insight into what it means to be part of a sport at the top level.
Starting the Journey: From Spectators to Owners
Pete’s path into ownership began alongside his wife Di, who shared his enthusiasm for horses and the sport. Their first step towards ownership came when Pete and Di wrote out a list of life goals. On Peter's list? Own a four-star event horse. That one decision would open a door to a new chapter in life. They weren’t just looking for a transaction, they were looking for a horse to believe in and a journey to be part of.
Major Milestone: A Ginger Horse With Grit
Their journey began with a horse named Major Milestone, a chestnut once ridden by Owen Moore. “We bought him and he really needed to go back to basics,” Pete said. Owen successfully brought the horse up to CCI4*-L level, competing at both Bramham and Blenheim. But despite the milestones, progress wasn’t easy - “His dressage was just dreadful. I mean, shockingly bad,” Pete admitted with a laugh.
Eventually, Owen encouraged Pete to look for another rider better suited for the next stage. That rider would become none other than Sir Mark Todd. Mark gave the horse a go and within weeks, was calling to ask, “Is this horse qualified for Burghley?” It turned out he was. Mark took him to Burghley, where Major Milestone finished an impressive 11th. 
Leonidas II and the Olympic Dream: The Horse That Changed Everything
Leonidas II showed Pete and Di what was possible. Ridden by Mark Todd and eventually Padraig McCarthy, Leonidas had an exceptional career, but the pinnacle being the Rio Olympic Games in 2016.
Pete described Rio as "a lot of dreams com(ing) true". From the selection process to the experience on the ground in Rio, being part of that team effort brought a new layer of pride and perspective. Although the week ended with huge dissapointment and they went home without end a medal, it was a moment that confirmed everything Pete had come to believe about ownership. It’s not just about competition - it's about being part of something bigger, with memories that last a lifetime.
Mark Todd and Leonidas II
Life After Mark Todd: A New Chapter Begins
The day Mark retired "Was a celebration of Mark's eventing career and a sad day at the same time," described Pete. But rather than stepping back, Pete found a new path forward by getting involved with other riders such as fellow Team NZL rider Tim Price and Padraig McCarthy who he met through Sally Corscadden.
Now, a number of years later, Padraig McCarthy is partnered with the Cattell's MGH Zabaione - one of the most exciting nine year olds on the circuit. The horse showed his class by winning the prestigious Blenheim Palace 8/9yo class in 2024 - becoming the first Irish horse to do so and the first eight-year-old winner since 2016. This season, he also topped the leaderboard in the Millstreet CCI4*-L. With Aachen’s Nations Cup approaching and the European Championships at Blenheim on the horizon, his upward trajectory continues. The long-term vision? LA 2028 is firmly in their sights.
What Makes a Good Owner-Rider Partnership?
Pete has a unique perspective on what makes a successful owner-rider relationship. It’s not just about results, he says, but about shared values, open communication, and a clear understanding of each party’s role.
The Full Picture of Ownership
Pete describes ownership as having three equally important parts.
- There's the competition side of it
- There's watching your horses go through the grades and improve
- Then there's the fun
That “fun” means much more than just the adrenaline of cross-country day. For Pete, it’s about the community- the people, the travel, the shared experiences. For Pete, the enjoyment comes from every layer of the experience - from watching a young horse learn, to chatting with fellow owners about plans and prospects, to their recent trip to France.
Matching Potential with Opportunity
Through the Owner’s Eyes is brought to you in partnership with EquiRatings Horse Sales. If you’re on the hunt for your next horse or looking to make a smarter match, this is where data can truly make a difference.
EquiRatings Horse Sales brings together performance potential and price - helping to find the right horse for you, with clarity in your decision and confidence in your journey. Maximise your chance of success, minimise the chance of regret. Read more here.
Listen to the full episode now!
📣 Stay in the Loop on All Things Eventing
Get the latest predictions, key stats, and storylines delivered where you want them.
👉 Follow us on Instagram: @equiratings_eventing
📲 Join our WhatsApp Channel: Real-time insights, straight from the team to your phone — no noise, just eventing.