17/06/2026
Meet Major Delacour 🧡 🍊
If you've spent any time around Orchard, you'll probably already know our much loved Major, affectionately known by everyone as our BFG - Big Friendly Giant.
Major has actually been part of the Orchard family for a while now. We deliberately took our time before sharing his story because, as with every horse that joins us, his happiness comes first. We wanted to ensure he had settled into his new role, enjoyed his routine, built relationships with our learners and staff, and was genuinely content in his new chapter.
We're delighted to say that he absolutely is.
What makes Major so special is not only his kind nature and gentle personality, but also the incredible experience he brings with him. Before joining Orchard, Major enjoyed an outstanding international showjumping career, competing in over 220 FEI classes and jumping at the very highest levels of the sport, including 1.60m Grand Prix competition.
Ridden by top riders including Robert Whitaker, Henry Squibb and Daniel Delsart, Major travelled extensively and gained invaluable experience in some of the biggest arenas in the country and beyond.
One of the highlights of his career came at the prestigious Horse of the Year Show (HOYS), where he partnered Robert Whitaker to win the famous Puissance, clearing an incredible 7ft 2in (2.20m) wall on his very first attempt at the class. The performance showcased exactly what Major became renowned for throughout his career ,bravery, heart and an unbelievable willingness to try.
Today, his role is very different, but no less important.
Instead of teaching riders how to win classes, Major is helping teach the next generation of equestrians. Every day he helps our learners develop confidence, practical skills, horse care knowledge, handling techniques and a deeper understanding of horse welfare.
There's something truly special about learning from a horse who has "been there and done it". Major has travelled the world, competed under pressure, and experienced life at the highest level. Those experiences have shaped the calm, wise and generous horse we know today.
At Orchard, we often talk about horses being our greatest teachers, and Major is the perfect example of that.
We feel incredibly privileged that a horse of his calibre has chosen to spend this stage of his life with us. More importantly, we're grateful that he seems to love his new job just as much as we love having him here.
Thank you, Major, for everything you've already taught us, and for everything you're still teaching our learners every single day.
We're very lucky to call you one of our own. ❤️🐴
