Capel Brunker

Capel Brunker spent most of his life in the Army, serving with the Royal Artillery, and retired with the rank of brigadier. He was decorated with the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) for service in north-west Europe during World War II.

During his time in service, Brunker represented the Army in many international show jumping competitions at home and abroad, and helped the British Army win the coveted Prince of Wales Cup for Army show jumping teams, at Olympia several times, including shortly before the 1924 Olympics. Britain were one of the favourites for the team prize in Amsterdam, but could finish only seventh.

Brunker won the King’s Cup Army officers’ jumping competition at the 1937 Royal Tournament at Olympia, and also won the Duke of York Cup, for military show jumpers, at the Richmond Horse Show in 1939. Brunker was also a keen point-to-point steeplechaser riding his own horse Weary. He also represented his regiment in inter-regimental polo tournaments. He was also seen at Army Hunter Trials, and other equestrian shows, as a judge.