sammi birch equestrian team

HOME TEAM

Helen Tagg:

Hels has been an integral part of Birch Equestrian for well over two decades - it literally could not function without her! Supergroom, supernanny and superwoman wrapped into one, she is the backbone of the team. Her high standards in stable mangement and turnout set the tone for the yard, and if she isn't caring for the horses, she is looking after Sammi's children, Charlie or Emilia. Or her merry band of Jack Russells. You can't have too many apparently.....

My team would not be what it is without well over a decade of dedication from my best friend and head girl Helen Tagg. Hels and I have sweltered in Sydney amidst the heat and the flies, sat in soggy heaps in the truck on rainy days, nearly frozen to death in various unheated tackrooms and sworn black and blue that we will never import another homebred again as we watch it gallop off into the distance without either of us attached.

Anton Turnwald:

Anton is 21 and originally from Tauranga, New Zealand. He moved to the UK to experience eventing life and joined Birch Equestrian in March 2024. Since then, he has loved every moment, working alongside Sammi and Hels while bringing on his own young horse under their guidance. Anton is a dedicated and enthusiastic member of the team, with a real passion for horses and competition. He has been lucky enough to travel to some of the world’s most iconic events, including Badminton and Burghley. In the future, Anton hopes to return to New Zealand to study veterinary science, with the goal of specialising in equine care.

Ed Birch:
Chef, chief truck driver, head of entertainment and recently; self proclaimed "Daddy McPhee". The main man in Sammi's life at every event, congratulating and commiserating, and generally ensuring that everything is kept in perspective. The key handy man on the yard that keeps everything running smoothly, Little Park Farm would not function without him. Last but certainly not least he is the father to the beautiful Charlie and Emilia Birch.

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Charlie & Emilia Birch:
Charlie is growing into a smart confidence young boy, playing
many sports such as rugby and football. He is also following in
is mother footsteps with his noble steed Twinkle.
Emilia is Sammi and Eds little miracle baby and is a very cheeky
smiley little girl. These future equestrians are a consistent
support and joy in Sammi's very busy equestrian life.
Keeping her grounded and humbled, they are an essential
part of Birch Equestrian.

Jack Whiteford:

Jack joined Team Birch in 2021 as a working pupil and has steadily progressed to having his own string of horses and developing a promising eventing career under the guidance of Sammi and Hels. His dedication, positive attitude, and quiet determination make him a key part of the team. We’re especially grateful for Jack at the start of the season, when the horses are feeling a little too fresh! It’s been fantastic to see how far he’s come, and we look forward to watching his career continue to go from strength to strength.

Bird Wood:
Bird first joined Team Birch in 2022 for what was meant to be just one season but three years later, she’s still here and an essential part of the team! Over that time, she’s gained a wealth of knowledge on the yard from Hels and developed her riding under Sammi’s guidance, successfully eventing a number of horses along the way. Beyond her work with the horses, Bird has truly become part of the family and is often found helping out with the kids. Her newest role is overseeing our social media and sponsorship management. We’re so proud of how far she’s come and look forward to supporting Bird as she continues to grow in her new career.

Lewis Poulter:

Lewis joined Team Birch at the beginning of 2025 and has quickly become a valued member of the team. Hardworking and dedicated, he approaches every task with enthusiasm. Lewis brought along his lovely mare, Maddie, who, with the continued support and guidance of Sammi and Hels, is moving confidently up the levels. Always up for a challenge, Lewis can often be found bravely (and occasionally unsuccessfully!) sticking to some of the more lively young horses. A genuine team player with a strong work ethic and a real passion for eventing, Lewis is a fantastic asset to the yard, and we’re excited to see what the future holds for him and Maddie.