Pippa Funnell

Philippa Rachel "Pippa" Funnell MBE (née Nolan, 7 October 1968) is an equestrian sportswoman who competes in eventing.

Pippa Funnell was born in Crowborough, East Sussex on 7 October 1968 to Jenny and George Nolan.

[4] Her horses have included Supreme Rock, Primmore's Pride, Sir Barnaby, Bits and Pieces, Walk on Star, and Ensign.

Funnell was European Young Rider Champion in 1987 after successfully competing on Sir Barnaby at Bialy Bor, Poland.

Several of her top horses, such as Supreme Rock, Primmore’s Pride, Viceroy, Walk on Star, Cornerman and Jurassic Rising reached the end of their careers and were retired.

At the Rio 2016 Summer Olympics, riding Billy the Biz, Funnell was part of the British team that finished fifth.

Funnell won the 2019 Burghley Horse Trials, riding MGH Grafton Street, having led from day one.

[6] 6th (Cornerman) WD (Mirage D'Elle) 30th (Pure Addiction) EL (Redesigned) EL (Redesigned) 23rd (Second Supreme) WD (Second Supreme) RET (Billy Walk On) WD (Billy Walk On) 14th (Majas Hope) EL (MGH Grafton Street) 16th (Majas Hope) RET (Billy Walk On) Funnell was made an MBE in the Queen's 2005 Birthday Honours for services to equestrian sport.

The first four titles have also been recorded as unabridged audiobooks, read by sports presenter Clare Balding.

The central character, Tilly Redbrow, is an adopted child, who is passionate about everything to do with horses and ponies.

As well as the fictional story, each title also contains a tips section with expert advice from Funnell on all aspects of horses and ponies.