Saffron Cresswell's Badminton Bursary

Photo credit: @sondastudios

It was such a wonderful opportunity to be awarded the BEMA Bursary for Badminton Horse Trials this year. Having the chance to work with the Badminton Radio team throughout the event was an incredible experience, and I was also fortunate enough to be part of the cross-country and showjumping commentary team over the weekend.

As someone who spent years competing as an event rider before a life-changing accident left me paralysed, being back at Badminton in a completely different role is incredibly special. The sport has always been a huge part of my life, so to still be involved and contribute in a new way means so much.

Making the transition from athlete to working in media is a huge leap for me, and it can often feel like a difficult industry to break into. Receiving the BEMA Bursary, made possible through the generous support of Agria, has given me an invaluable opportunity that simply wouldn’t have been possible otherwise.

I’m so grateful to everyone involved for believing in me and giving me this chance. I hope this is just the beginning, and I’m excited to continue building on the knowledge, experience and confidence I’ve gained as I pursue a career in sports presenting and commentary.