WIGGATON event rider Aaron Millar had the ride of a lifetime" when he made his debut in the four star Badminton Horse Trials last weekend.

WIGGATON event rider Aaron Millar had the "ride of a lifetime" when he made his debut in the four star Badminton Horse Trials last weekend. Up-and-coming star Aaron, 22, and his 15-year-old bay gelding, Stormstay, were the talk of the trials when a loose dog ran onto the track and chased them during the testing cross country phase. Aaron, whose exploits bagged him a spot on the BBC's highlights programme, finished in 43rd place - the second best performance by a first-timer. He said: "Amazingly, the dog didn't faze Stormstay at all. He was so focused and stayed on every line. It was an out of this world experience, the ride of a lifetime. I'll never forget it, I'm over the moon." On completing, Aaron was congratulated by riders and trainers including William Fox-Pitt, Lucinda Green and Yogi Breisner. He said: "I have had Stormstay for five years and know that he is so genuine so, despite feeling sick with nerves before the start, he was on for a good run. He's done so much for me, he will never be sold."Aaron will now save his stable star for the big events, aiming him at Burghley in September. He is looking for another four-star horse to ride alongside Stormstay and can be contacted on 07749 964290. Pic: Kit Houghton.