Tait's father has been the most influential person in his career. His journey in equestrian sports saw him break his leg in 1999. Despite this setback, he continued to excel and achieve significant milestones.

Awards and Honours

In 1993, Tait was appointed Member of the British Empire (MBE) for his services to equestrian sport. He was the flag bearer for New Zealand at the opening ceremony of the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney. In 2001, he received the Lonsdale Cup from the New Zealand Olympic Committee.

In 2018, Tait was inducted into the Equestrian Sports New Zealand (ESNZ) Hall of Fame. These accolades highlight his contributions and dedication to equestrian sports over the years.

Comeback Attempts

Tait retired after the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens but attempted a comeback in 2011. He aimed to qualify for the 2012 and 2016 Olympic Games but was unsuccessful. However, he was named on the New Zealand eventing team for the 2018 World Equestrian Games (WEG) in Tryon, NC, USA.

Challenges with New Rules

After a seven-year break from the sport post-2004 Olympics, Tait returned to competition in 2011. However, new rules introduced by the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) for the 2013 season downgraded him from a four-star rider to a bottom-tier 'national rider'. This change occurred because he had not competed in enough events over an eight-year period.

Tait expressed concerns about these new rules, stating that many riders were affected negatively. Despite these challenges, his determination and passion for equestrian sports remain evident.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, Tait plans to continue contributing to equestrian sports through coaching and training. His extensive experience and knowledge will undoubtedly benefit aspiring riders and horses alike.

Blyth Tait's journey in equestrian sports is marked by dedication, resilience, and numerous achievements. His contributions have left a lasting impact on the sport, inspiring future generations of riders.