Battle of Hastings 2019

The Battle of Hastings 2019 marked a pivotal transition in my life - from traditional reenactor to professional historical rider.

Background

In 2012, I decided to pursue serious horsemanship for reenactment purposes. After meeting someone at a Burton on Trent event, I connected with Dominic Sewell at Historic Equitation and committed to learning to ride within ten months to compete at the Hastings event. I completed intensive weekly lessons and training sessions, acquiring necessary kit and passing safety requirements.

Pre-Event Preparation

Days before the show, I assembled my Norman cavalry kit: padded and mail coifs, helmets, tunics, hauberks, leggings, spurs, shield, sword, and spear. My hauberk needed repairs, as did my five-year-old tunic. Wet conditions were expected.

Day One

Beginning at 5 AM in rainy conditions, the day started with horse care - checking water, distributing hay, mucking paddocks. The group was ready by 8 AM for training. My horse Perry entered "cavalry charge mode" on Senlac Hill. After displays and the main battle performance, the group visited the pub, where we witnessed paramedics responding to a reenactor's muddy-path slip fracture requiring a six-wheel-drive ambulance extraction.

Day Two

Morning drills were cancelled due to ground conditions. The group remained idle until 3 PM battle preparation. Dominic Sewell retired his young horse Faraon due to stiffness, leaving me to assume command with minimal notice. My Historic Equitation conroy comprised five horses and riders. Despite limited leadership experience, I coordinated movements while performing my Taillefer role - being dragged from my horse, kicked, killed, and dragged into battle lines. I enjoyed leading cavalry charges while spectators joined in shouting "NORMANDEEEE."

Pack-up proceeded smoothly, with our group departing first overall.