About Us
Starfield Equestrian is led by a multidisciplinary team combining high-level equestrian experience with international business, policy research, client development and cross-border project coordination.
Our team works across the UK, Europe and China, connecting professional equestrian expertise with the practical capabilities required to manage training, horse sourcing, commercial partnerships and international horse-export projects.
Our Core Team
Zikang Hu
Equestrian Director & Head Coach
Zikang Hu is a Grand Prix dressage rider and professional coach responsible for Starfield’s equestrian operations, training programmes and horse assessment.
He leads the professional development of horses and riders at Starfield’s Oxfordshire base and provides technical oversight for horse sourcing, professional trial rides, competition preparation and post-purchase training.
Zikang also serves as the Head Dressage Coach of the Shandong Provincial Equestrian Team and Leader of its UK Overseas Training Base, supporting the connection between professional training systems in the UK and the development of competitive equestrian sport in China.
He holds an MSc in Sports Events Management, combining practical equestrian expertise with an understanding of professional sport, international events and programme delivery.
Areas of Responsibility
• Professional dressage training
• Horse assessment and trial rides
• Competition preparation
• Horse and rider development
• Training programme design
• Technical oversight of horse sourcing
• UK overseas training programmes
• Equestrian partnerships
Chen
Operations Director
Chen oversees Starfield’s international strategy, business operations and cross-border project development. She holds a PhD in International Political Economy and brings extensive experience in policy research, international cooperation, institutional communication and project management. Chen began riding at the age of eight, and horses have remained an important part of her life ever since. Although she chose an academic career rather than becoming a rider, her long-standing involvement in equestrian sport gives her a personal understanding of riders, horse owners and the wider industry. For Chen, Starfield represents the opportunity to bring together her professional expertise and a lifelong passion for horses.
At Starfield, she leads the development of partnerships across the British, European and Chinese equestrian industries. Her work includes commercial strategy, market-access research, export-project coordination, stakeholder engagement and communication between European professional partners and Chinese clients.
Areas of Responsibility
• International strategy
• UK and European business development
• Cross-border project management
• China market-access research
• Export and logistics coordination
• Institutional partnerships
• Policy and regulatory analysis
• Bilingual stakeholder communication
Ellen
Director of China Business Development
Ellen leads Starfield’s relationships with Chinese clients, equestrian clubs, institutional partners and domestic industry stakeholders.
She holds a PhD in International Political Economy and brings strong capabilities in business development, policy understanding, stakeholder communication and cross-border coordination.
Ellen plays a central role in understanding client requirements, developing long-term relationships with clubs and organisations, and coordinating the China-side resources required for horse sourcing, import and post-arrival delivery.
She also supports communication between Chinese clients and Starfield’s UK and European partners, ensuring that commercial expectations, project responsibilities and operational information remain clear throughout the process.
Areas of Responsibility
• Chinese client and club relations
• China business development
• Client requirement assessment
• Institutional and commercial partnerships
• China-side import-resource coordination
• Domestic quarantine and delivery coordination
• Cross-border communication
• Long-term client support
Our Riders & Coaching Network
Grand Prix Dressage Rider & Coach
Katie Bailey is a British Grand Prix dressage rider, trainer and UKCC Level 3 coach with extensive experience supporting competitive horses and riders.
She has achieved success at British Dressage national level and has supported young British riders competing at European Championship level. Her coaching combines correct technical development with practical competition preparation, helping riders improve confidence, effectiveness and performance. Katie has been Zikang's coach and she works regularly with Starfield on selected training camps, rider-development programmes and international coaching projects, including Starfield-supported programmes in China.
Eventing rider & coach
Rhiannon Foreman is an international eventing rider, supporting the daily training, fitness and development of horses based at our Oxfordshire yard.
With an eventing-focused perspective across dressage, showjumping and cross-country preparation, Rhiannon contributes to the production of versatile, confident and responsive horses. She also supports horse assessment, exercise programmes, competition preparation and the ongoing management of horses in training at Starfield.
Global Network & Partnerships
We bridge the gap between European competition excellence and the growing Chinese market. Our network spans the UK, Europe, and Asia, ensuring seamless coordination for every stage of the export journey.
Shandong Provincial Team
As the Official UK Overseas Training Base of the Shandong Provincial Equestrian Team, we provide high-level technical support for elite riders preparing for international competition.
European Partners
International Logistics
Coordinating complex transport routes and quarantine requirements between the UK, Europe, and China ensures a professional and compliant journey for every horse.
China Market Access
We maintain strong operational relationships with European equestrian yards, breeders, riders, and agents, providing a credible and professional bridge to the Chinese market.
Our dedicated team manages the full spectrum of China import approvals, ensuring a smooth transition for buyers and a professional experience for sellers.
Equestrian Expertise
Deep technical knowledge of equestrian training, horse welfare, and professional performance standards at the highest levels.
One Team Across the Full Journey
Starfield’s strength lies not only in individual expertise, but in the way these capabilities work together.
International Strategy
Managing the legal, logistical, and commercial complexities of European sourcing and cross-border horse exports.
China-Side Execution
Bridging the cultural and bureaucratic gap to ensure seamless delivery, quarantine, and local integration within China.
Work With Our Team
Whether you are seeking your next horse or developing an institutional equestrian project, our team’s combined international presence and equestrian expertise provide the stability and insight needed for success. Contact us to discuss how our team can support your goals.
Equestrian Industry
Highly specialized insight guaranteeing premium coaching and equine procurement align with top world rankings.
Global Market Strategy
Guiding international horse trade through precise management and legal oversight for various multinational ventures.
Local Project Delivery
Fluid logistical handling and field-based implementation driving effective entry into markets and corporate victory.