MILTON Lilbourne eventer Lizzie Brown is hoping to be quick off the start line this season after completing a rigorous fitness programme with help from Formula One star Mark Webber.

New Zealand international Brown, who is based at the Milton Stud, near Pewsey, joined the former Red Bull driver at the Porsche Human Performance Centre at Silverstone last weekend.

The 25-year-old was invited after organisers of the Get Race Fit programme, essentially targeted at motorsport competitors, learned of the similarites between the preparations of riders and drivers.

Brown, who clinched her first international triumph at the Military Boekelo CCIO3* in the Netherlands in October, was put through her paces in yoga and bike, circuit training, stretching exercise, reaction and strength and conditioning sessions.

“It was a fantastic opportunity for me to take part and it was well worth it,” she said of the two-day experience.

“I joined about 20 up-and-coming drivers and was the only female participant.

“Mark is a true champion. He’s a great guy, very honest and direct and he gave me some great advice.

“I’m always learning and trying to pick new things up, to gain a fair advantage over my rivals. I learned things that will help me with my riding, that’s for sure.”

Brown, who is aiming to compete at this year’s World Equestrian Games in France in August and September, added: “I’m really hungry for more success and I think this has set me up to achieve that. I left there feeling really inspired and ready to go.’’

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