Showing World
Issue 177 - December 2023
Issue 177 December 2023 www.showingworldonline.co.uk
Bumper HOYS and SEIB British Showing World Awards Reports
Reports from SSADL Championships, Your Horse Live, BSPS Heritage Championships and many more!
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Dear Reader, Welcome to our final issue of the year. Last issue, I asked you all to please stop by and say, “Hello,” at HOYS, and it was wonderful that so many of you did. In particular, we had lots of visitors who had qualified for HOYS via the new TSR Amateur-only qualifiers or the Premier Amateur League. We were touched that lots of you even brought photos to show us how you got on, and were thrilled that you had enjoyed the experience so much. Having watched the TSR’s new routes unfold and grow through the course of this year, it was also fantastic to see that lots of you not only enjoyed, but more than held your own to stand in the lineup. Even better was watching two of TSR’s qualifiers be crowned overall champions. What a moment for amateur competitors everywhere!
A Note From Our Editor
Of course there were disappointments at HOYS, but we can’t all have our day all at once. If you were disappointed - as I was with my own outcomes - there’s always next year. We must remember that the raw truth is that we’re no more machines than our equines are, we all make mistakes, and we’ll fight another day. It’s easy to forget this, let the pressure build and lose sight of the fact that for so many of us, showing is a past time to be enjoyed. On the other hand, there were some wonderful surprise winners at HOYS, and lots of happy tears. Whether you entered the ring a favourite or a rank outsider, if you sashed your goals or realised a lifetime’s ambition to win at Horse of the Year Show, congratulations! Hang on tight to that memory! Lots of you followed up fabulous results with wins at the SEIB British Showing World Arwards, which was a fantastic night. Thank you so much for coming! A special shoutout to Isla Miller and Kirsty Aird who made extremely long journeys south with their teams all the way from Scotland. However, I was saddened to discover that some took it upon themselves to disrespect the property and to even steal lighting equipment amongst other, less valuable items. It’s so disappointing if a minority cast a shadow over the otherwise fabulous event and undermine the hard work from staff and contractors involved in pulling off such an event. If it was you, please return the lighting in particular as soon as possible. What a shame if this wonderful celebration of the season is lost to all those who had a blast whilst still maintaining respect for the venue, the staff and the event at large. As this lands with you, I will already have left Showing World Ltd for horizons new. Showing remains a passion of mine, and I’m sure I will continue to be involved in a myriad ways, but will no longer be editor of Showing World. Nevertheless, I will be keeping a keen eye on results as ever next season and look forwards to celebrating successes and discussing dilemmas with you! In the meantime, it feels as if we’re aeady hurtling towards a new season. Be it disappointment or glory that motivates you this winter, find time to take a break and relax . You deserve it. See you soon, Beth
Cover Star! Forgeland Hyde Park, ridden by Danielle Heath (1st Class Images)
info@showingworldonline.co.uk | December Issue 2023 | Showing World | 3
Contents
12
SSADL Championships
16
Welsh National Foal Show
22
BSPS Heritage Championships
26
Horse of the Year Show
57
Your Horse Live
57
22 27 Editorial: Beth Simons
beth.simons@showingworldonline.co.uk
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Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the editor or Showing World Ltd and while every effort has been made to ensure that the information contained is correct and current at the date of publication, Showing World Ltd will not be help responsible for the appearance of photographic material supplied without the necessary consent, copyright and/or photographer’s details. In addition, Showing World Ltd offers no guarantee of publication and reserves the right to edit any reader’s letters, press releases, reports and articles submitted. Showing World Ltd 2023. All rights reserved. No part of Showing World may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system, transmitted or shared in any form or by any means, including but not limited to: electronic, mechanical, digital, photocopying, recording or otherwise without prior written permission of Showing World Ltd.
4 | Showing World | December Issue 2023 | info@showingworldonline.co.uk
British Showing World
AWARDS 23 ®
Brought to you by Showing World Magazine The 2023 SEIB British Showing World Awards held on December 2nd at Stoneleigh Park saw the showing community come together in a wonderful end-of-season party. There was music, dancing and abundant cheer. Two “outstanding” awards were presented: Outstanding Contribution, and Outstanding Achievement. The first of which, Outstanding Contribution, was awarded to BSPS stalwart, Joy Hall. Joy became involved with the BSPS over half a century ago when her daughter Karen started riding in lead rein aged six years old. Joan Lee Smith, who was Chairman of the Area at the time, asked Joy to become BSPS Area 17 secretary, a role she undertook for over 10 years. When they started in 1970, the BSPS Summer Championships were run for working hunter ponies only and were run solely by volunteers. Joy joined the show’s committee and later became Secretary of the Show. Since that time, the show has grown into the five-day success that it is under Joy’s stewardship.
Joy Hall is presented by Richard Ramsay and Christina Vaughn representing sponsors SEIB and Fullers Flowers respectively
It’s fair to say that Joy has been a huge inspiration to many others in the Showing World as her knowledge and experience is second to none, and her wisdom and advice has been sought and followed many times over.
In 1979 when the Society’s then Secretary Ronnie Grellis retired, the Society moved to Sawtry and Joy was asked to help set up the new office. A new secretary was employed, but only lasted three weeks in the job. Joy took the reins and stayed for the next 43 years, firstly as secretary, and later as Executive Officer.
Now that Joy is stepping back as Executive Officer, she’s looking forward to enjoying her retirement. Meanwhile at Showing World we hope that Joy can enjoy a well-earned rest!
For over 32 years, since it moved to Hickstead, Joy has provided hospitality at the RIHS, and she has officiated at HOYS for over 20 years. She’s also been instrumental in guiding the BSPS Council in everything it does. During her time, Joy has introduced many new initiatives to the BSPS including show hunter ponies, mountain and moorlands and intermediates.
The final award presented was the Outstanding Achievement Award. This was presented to Welsh breeds afficionado Colin Tibbey, who announced his retirement earlier this year. Colin’s wife, Sarah, succeeded in keeping the award a secret from Colin, though he admitted, “by halfway through the night, I was
Colin Tibbey, flanked by Richard Ramsay and Christina Vaughn representing sponsors SEIB and Fullers Flowers respectively
beginning to think there must be a reason she had brought me beyond the party!” Colin individual has given no less than 35 years of production to the industry, specialising predominantly in Welsh sections A and B, with Sarah co-producing for 17 of those years. His clients speak of dedication to the job, professionalism and the highest standards. We couldn’t agree more; he could certainly show a pony and had a super turn of speed to keep up with even the biggest movers around the biggest rings! It’s probably these attributes that lead him to achieve Royal Welsh wins literally too numerous to mention, and to qualify for the Price Family Supreme In Hand Championship 25 times. His own ponies bred at the Lacy stud have in some ways played second fiddle to liveries, but their influence has been widespread. The inimitable Blackhill Picolo was hugely successful in the showring and was a prolific stockgetter, both at Lacy and elsewhere. He was Royal Welsh Sire Ratings winner for the Welsh section A six times and was the Kellythorpes Leading Sire of the Year for eight years consecutively, testament to the fact he also sired excellent ridden ponies. One hugely successful son of Picolo, Pinewell Bucksfizz, became one of Colin’s most decorated partners in the showring, winning the Cuddy Supreme In Hand championship - now the Price Family Supreme - twice consecutively.
Katie about him. Meanwhile Katie had shown a string of former racehorses successfully in the Jockey Club’s RoR Series, but had never enjoyed much luck with the SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse, not quite managing to qualify for the HOYS final. When Katie saw Reg, she “instantly fell in love” and he was consigned to Jo Bates’ yard for production as a show horse. In 2021, Katie and Reg not only qualified for HOYS, but won the SEIB Racehorse to Ridinghorse final as well as the supreme championship at the Jockey Club’s RoR Championships at Aintree. Last year we saw the pair hold their own in open classes and stand champion amateur riding horse at the Royal International Horse Show. But this year, Katie and Reg became a force to reckon with, and at the pinnacle of the season, that disappointing racehorse found himself a champion show horse, standing Riding Horse of the Year. Whilst the pair’s achievements are notable, it wasn’t results alone that drove the Showing World panel to choose this pair as their Personality of the Year. Rather it was because Katie waited decades, watching friends competing over the years, before her own opportunity to ride through those special purple curtains at HOYS. The pair are a lesson in what you can achieve if you’re patient and never give up on your dream. Katie Dashwood with Richard Ramsay
Colin made other Price or Cuddy-related headlines. A further win came in 2018 with the Williams family’s Moelgarnedd Stadros, a Welsh section B stallion he also showed to be a WPCS Gold medallist. The Walsaker stud’s Paddock Rio was shown extensively and extremely successfully by Colin over several years. In 2019, Colin famously qualified Rio and his then three-year-old son Walsaker Colorado (Red) for the Price Family Supreme In Hand Championship within a week of each other at two of the most hotly contested qualifiers, the Royal Cheshire County and Royal Highland Show. Red qualified once again this season alongside Colin, who also qualified Thistledown Athene
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Maintaining momentum through until the very end of the in hand season, further wins came at the Royal Welsh Winter Fair so Colin certainly hasn’t slowed down and he ends on a high. Awards-goers were upstanding in their applause for Colin as he made his way to the stage to accept his award. No doubt there will be those who won’t miss the feeling of impending “seconditis” they once had as they eyed the cream Lacy-Stud-emblazoned lorry’s arrival on a showground. However, there can also be no doubt that they, amongst others, will miss the showman’s flair and mastery of his craft. The Show Personality of the Year Award was also decided by the Showing World panel, not by public vote. It was awarded to Katie Dashwood and Minella Rebellion (Reg), her TB gelding. Reg began his ridden career as a racehorse on Nicky Henderson’s yard. Despite his experience and Reg’s decorated bloodlines, his racing career was nothing short of disappointing. Luckily for Reg, Henrietta Knight spotted something in him and told her good friend
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The Winning Formula For Show Success Amanda Sharman’s Castle Kestrel, 2023 Ridden Connemara Pony of the Year ridden by Lucy Glover using her Courtlea Numnah. Photo by 1st Class Images
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6 | Showing World | December Issue 2023 | info@showingworldonline.co.uk
SEIB BRITISH SHOWING WORLD AWARDS WINNERS 2023
1st Class Images Junior of the Year Ollie Rowlands
Handler of the Year Dorian Lloyd with Craig Elenor
TSR Amateur of the Year Poppy Gresty with TSR’s Chloe Bingley
Smart Grooming Groom of the Year Joe Close with Smart Grooming sponsored rider Vikki Smith
SSADL Senior of the Year Overley Gamebird is represented by her rider Millie Rackham Cobb, photographed with Claire Frost and Jennifer Frost
Sarah Wilkes presents Billy Moran with Stallion AI Services’ Breeder of the Year Billy Moran
Stephen Howard and Sandy Wooderson present Woodview Iola represented by Emma Shepherd and Lilly-Mae Howard with the NPS Riding Pony of the Year
Eastlands Dunedin representatives Lauren Beaumont and Lucinda Leeming are presented Cuddfan at Coxlake Native Pony of the Year by Maggie Simons
Grandstand Media’s Hayley Morrow presents Olivia Minihane with KBF Lucia’s Coloured Horse of the Year Award
Will Morton presents Harriet Dennison with the Rider of the Year award
PolyPads’ Tracey Hill presents Ladies Man representative Danni Radford with the PolyPads Horse of the Year award
Grandstand Media’s Jemima Walker presents Lucy Glover and team with Show Team of the Year
info@showingworldonline.co.uk | December Issue 2023 | Showing World | 7
Rolls-Royce Rides: Wildness Early Bird There have been hundreds of ponies over the years that make heads turn, but there are very few that have that “all-star” quality that fixes them in the minds of the showing world. What is it that makes these ponies such prevalent winners, the kind of pony you expect to see in the championships year after year? what is it that makes them a Rolls-Royce Ride? Grace Trebble investigates… One of those ponies is undeniably 148cm show pony Wildness Early Bird, or Birdie, as she’s known at home. The 12-year-old mare has been consistently winning for many years. One of her first notable wins was back in 2016 where she took the Show Pony Championship at Royal Windsor. Her owner at the time, Zoe Homles reflected that Birdie was “put on this planet to show; she wants to please whoever is on her.” Zoe’s sentiments are shared by her current owners, David and Nicol Donaldson, and her jockey, their daughter, Mia. Birdie has had a long and decorated career with Mia having twice claimed the Supreme Products RIHS supreme pony championship at the Royal International Horse Show, in 2021 and 2022. When I asked Mia about this incredible experience she said, “doing it once was amazing, but twice is just unbelievable.” When Birdie is in the ring, she undeniably handles that high pressure environment of evening performances and championships better than rest of the competition. Her longterm producer Kirsty Pickles of Team Ahern explained: “she loves the big stage; the atmosphere doesn’t bother her, and she rises to the occasion. She always has her ears on, listens to Mia and does what is asked of her.” In fact, according to Mia, Birdie seems to love the attention being on her so much, that during her lap of honour, “she likes to do a little whinny, she loves to perform.” She is no robot, of course, as Kirsty told me. “She has her little quirks and needs preparing for shows in a certain way but there aren’t many [ponies] that come along and give so much.”
Birdie and Mia in the RIHS supreme in 2022. (Peter Nixon)
Wildness Early Bird might just be in luck. After winning the 2023 Breeders Challenge at the BSPS Summer Championships, David Donaldson has said that “the plan is to breed from her”. So just maybe in a few years’ time we will see another superstar born.
Wildness Early Bird, Sire: Chiddock Time Limit, Dam: Wilderness Fancy Spice, Grand Sire: Kilvington Scoundrel.
Many people are wondering what is in this special mare’s future. Those who have wished they could have their own
Mia Donaldson and Wilderness Early Bird
Wilderness Early Bird (Equinational)
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info@showingworldonline.co.uk | December Issue 2023 | Showing World | 9
Behind the brand: Smart Grooming We were delighted for our sponsored rider Danielle Heath and her beautiful ride Forgeland Hyde Park – or Will – who not only took the hack championship at HOYS for the third time, but also took the Supreme Horse of the Year title. What an achievement! There’s no doubt that Will and Danielle looked a stunning picture as they trotted down the centre line. Here Danielle shows how to get her supreme champion look!
Danielle uses Plaiting Gel and Wax for the start of the plait. The wax keeps the wispy bits down and the gel provides grip and shine to the plait. Perfect Plait spray is used for a final spritz to hold and keep plaits in place all day.
The Smart Grooming Body Brush is perfect for a final brush over before applying the top shine, and quarter marks.
Quarter marking gel is best applied directly to a damp coat and massaged in before applying the chequer board squares. Then, Quarter Marking spray holds the marks in place. They will even stay in place with rugs going on and off.
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Quarter marks are inserted with the slicker brush.
The Smart Grooming Enhancing gloss is a beeswax based product with sun repelling properties. It gives a high shine as well as helping to condition and protect the sensitive skin around the muzzle and eyes.
The non-oil based Super Shine lotion can be used all over, and is especially good to bring up a high shine on tails as well as for hot clothing over the body before evening performance to accentuate the shine. Don’t worry. it can be used under the saddle without creating a slide! It dries to a high dry finish without attracting dirt or dust.
Coat sheen is applied directly to the coat and buffed in with our luxury faux sheepskin mitt give a high shine and dry, non oily finish. The sheen contains essential oils.
Gloss n Go does as it says on the label! It’s perfect for a final spray over, and is used as a finishing spray on top of the Coat Sheen or on its own for a high shine body spray finish. I find for the best results, polish with a soft mitt for maximum shine.
Overley Gamebird
Gamebird Soars Above the Competition SSADL Championships | Onley Equestrian Centre | By Millie Bowles A super consistent grey lead rein pony took the overall ridden spoils before picking up a coveted London International Horse Show (LIHS) ticket. Nineteen-year-old mare Overley Gamebird, known as Mildred at home, and her rider Millie Rackham were led by Justin Thomas to claim the title. Godfather to nine-year-old Millie, Justin had never led before this summer. His childhood friend and Millie’s mother Heidi remarked: “He was thrown in at the deep end. His first show was an LIHS qualifier and they were reserve champions. Then his second was Royal International where they were sixth. It was hilarious as he had no idea what a big deal it was until people came up and explained it to him after the class.” Heidi is usually at the end of the line, but a hip injury put her out of action. “It was hard watching,”
she explained. “I was a nervous wreck, but Justin looked like a pro leading them round.” The qualification in the plaited section was the “icing on the cake” for the family team, after an “amazing” Saturday taking the Polly Coles sponsored supreme. Heidi gushed: “I’m so proud and can’t believe we get to go back to London. Mildred is amazing”. Millie also won the members challenge lead rein and first ridden championship. Reserve for the ridden overall went to Amy
Hunter and 20-year-old coloured traditional Pilgrim. Another consistent horse, Pilgrim took the win at the final in London last year. Lisa Mews and Glynwyn Fine and Dandy were in hand reserve supreme but were pipped by Alicia Houlihan and her 23-year-old Haflinger Tina (Tia). Tia was also crowned the SSADL members foreign breed champion and was runner up in the open members supreme. Glynwyn Fine and Dandy
Pilgrim
Alicia has owned Tia for almost a decade and she is a “cheeky” mare who “likes a good buck around the field”. She said: “She likes to think she is in charge at home. She will stand at the kitchen window staring at you when she is ready to come in.” The duo already picked up their ticket to ‘see Santa’ in July at Lawford Park Horse Show. There were lots of places at the senior final at the Excel, London on offer, all sponsored by Agria Pet Insurance. One new combination will be attending for the first time. Amelia Johnson and her 25-yearold gelding Celestial Navigation won the mountain and moorland qualifier. Twelve-year-old Amelia has only been riding Orion for six months and he is on loan for Amy Boaler. The Connemara pony lost an eye to cancer eight years ago but it “hasn’t stopped him”. Amelia’s mum Lisa added: “They have already enjoyed so much
hacking, cross country, arena eventing and are off to BD Quest Nationals next month. Qualifying for LIHS feels like a dream and everyone can see what a ‘star’ he is. He is already Amelia’s much loved pony of a lifetime.” The in hand mountain and moorland London spot went to Tamia Joyner and Welsh Section A Sarum Rembrandt (Remi). The 16-year-old gelding has had a glistening career, winning HOYS and going supreme ridden pony in 2015.
Sarum Rembrandt
It was a family affair for the Joyner’s, as little cousin PhoebeRose won the ridden restricted championship on Cafferys Jack The Lad led by Tamia’s mother. This marks a historical moment, as it is the first time a family have got to LIHS with both an in hand and ridden.
Caffreys Jack The Lad
Celestial Navigation Tina
Tamia, who works for her family’s equine transport business, told Showing World: “Remi, is a very special pony. “We have owned him since he was three years old. He’s a really loving pony and an absolute showman. 16-year-old Jack is a true, genuine child’s pony who we have also owned for many years. Phoebe-Rose is only four and is very excited, as it will be her first time competing at the show. It means so much for us to have both boys going as we are a small, home produced family team.” Winners of the in hand restricted qualifier were 18-year-old Charlwood
Not The Norm (Norman) and Maisie Filler. Usually competing in dressage, this is the pair’s first crack at SSADL classes. 17-year-old Maisie exclaimed: “I’m so proud to have qualified for LIHS in our first year of affiliated showing. Norman is Welsh cross Thoroughbred, and is “king of the yard” at home in Hertfordshire. Another rider who will be competing at London for the first time is Isabella Stagg with her Hannovarian Quite a Compliment (Holly). The 15-year-old mare has been
with Isabella for 10 years, and lifted the foreign breed qualifying championship. In their first season of showing, they are usually found on the cross-country course and the “golden ticket” came as a shock. “I really wasn’t expecting to win the championship.” Isabella said. “Holly means the world to me and I don’t know what I’d do without her. This is our first season having a go at showing but we mainly do eventing and riding club events. We’ve been to the Badminton Grassroots Championships four times.” Quite A Compliment
Birchwood UK Flying Colours
The in hand foreign breen qualifier went to a considerably smaller equine: 21-year-old miniature gelding Birchwood UK Flying Colours and Emma Armitage will be going to the final for the second time. Colours was purchased by Emma 18 years ago as a breeding stallion. After being gelded, he was broken to drive and competes in trials through the winter. His proud owner stated: “I’m absolutely ecstatic that we get to return to London for the second year and represent the miniatures and the foreign breeds. Qualifying was always a dream but to do it two years in a row is a real dream come true.” As well as international and closer to home breeds, there were specific sections for non-plaited and restricted ponies and horses. The ‘hairy’ ridden spoils went to Emma Barrow and 30-year-old gelding Waltham Scorpio (Harry). Harry is a Welsh Section D and last competed at the International Horse Show in 2019. This year however will be Emma’s first time there in the saddle. He has been in the family for four generations since he was a yearling. Emma explained: “He didn’t have the best start in life and my Mum just brought him because he was in such a state. She said he had this massive head and was covered in rain scald and was a complete nervous wreck. Everyone at home just loves him and his cheeky side.
Woodview Fiocco
He really does have the biggest heart and is one of a kind. It hasn’t been an easy year and it means so much to us all for him to just be here and healthy - let alone going back to London ridden at 30 years old! We owe Harry absolutely everything, he’s our very own black beauty.” The in-hand non-plaited ticket was awarded to Andrew Wright and traditional cob Captain Benson. The plaited equivalent was taken by successful ridden combination Georgia Kirby and Woodview Fiocco (Fin). Georgia was on the ground this time, but the versatile pair were champions of the ridden SSADL summer final at RIHS last year. Impressively, 20-year-old Finn was also reserve at the December final in the same season. They have an “incredible bond”, and the 133cm gelding “is in his element” when Georgia spends time with him every day. Her mum Susan said: “We bought him seven years ago when Georgia came out of first ridden classes. He’s hunted, done working hunter classes and dressage but he loves nothing more than flicking his toes round the ring. He’s a real showman.” There were plenty of evening performance championships at the show for competitors to enjoy. The Senior Of The Year, sponsored by Agnew Equine Vets was crowned as Bobbi Richardson and 16-yearold Top Hat. Waltham Scorpio
Captain Benson
Rhosymeirch Jolly Roger
SSADL members were invited to take part in their challenge series final. The open ridden spoils went to 18-year-old Greylands Stardust, ridden by Serena Gillingham. Amelia Johnson has another success with Celestial Navigation in the Kevin Baskeyfield mountain and moorland final, and Captain Benson and Andrew Wright also
took the Meadows Saddlery open in hand. Harriet Atkins and welsh gelding Rhosymeirch Jolly Roger were the in hand mountain and moorland winners. The ridden foreign breed final, sponsored by Polly Coles, was won by Lesley Green and Winter Elano, with Alicia Houlihan winning the in hand.
Greylands Stardust
National Pony Society Arena Eventing Final and Performance Show Aston Le Walls, Northamptonshire Saturday 16th of September, 2023 Photos by 1st Class Images The NPS/ Anthony Evans Arena Eventing Final and Performance Day was once again a superb day at Aston le Walls. Claiming the hotly contested arena eventing championship for the second year consecutively were West Bridge Mirah (Woody) and Rachel Turner after the pair won the 90cm class by a cool 13 marks. Having bought Woody as a fiveyear-old and competed him as a working hunter pony, Rachel sold him to now owners Collete du Feu and Peter Webber before continuing to be campaigned by Rachel and qualifying for the Horse of the Year Show in 2019. When asked to pick the reins back up at the 2022 NPS Championships for the event pony qualifier, Rachel was only too pleased to do so. This year, Rachel explained that he returned to her for “fine tuning a week before the show having only jumped 70 cm for the past 12 months with his owner,” Collette. “She had him looking and feeling great so a quick clip and a few bigger jumps had him ready. The challenge was remembering the 24-fence show jumping and xc course having not had time to walk it! He felt as good as ever and I may take him to a few big shows next year for fun as he still enjoys his competing.” In reserve was Jackie Webb’s homebred Connemara stallion, Blackthorn Pirate King, ridden by Sonya Fitch Peyton, winner of the 70cm Anthony
West Bridge Mirah ridden by Rachel Turner
D Evans Arena Eventing final. Meanwhile, the morning’s open 70cm qualifying class was won by Chloe Spencer riding Fiona Spencer’s Lookout Silver Oisin, and the 90cm qualifying class was topped by Natasha Taylor and her own Windmill Telor. Grace Morton, 10, and Rygar Teddy Baloo had an excellent pre-HOYS run-out winning their training stakes class and section championship as well as the novice 122cm mountain and moorland working hunter pony class and the section tricolour. They almost made it three championships when they won their third class of the day, the open 122cm mountain and moorland working hunter pony class, qualifying for the 2024 RIHS, before going on to take reserve. Owned by Jo, Teddy Baloo, who had previously hunted, has been with the family for two years having been bought when spotted on a social media website. “He was purchased unseen, and we picked him up on the A1,” said Jo, who runs a riding school in Lincoln. Although Teddy Baloo has done a bit of everything, this is their first year showing. The year has been an extremely successful one, with Grace and Teddy Baloo qualifying for HOYS in the mountain and moorland junior class at the NPS Summer Championships. Grace and Teddy Baloo were pipped to the RIHS section championship by the winners of the exceeding 143cm class, Renée Nichols riding Riverside Daffodil.
Blackthorn Pirate King ridden by Sonya Fitch Peyton
Riverside Daffodil ridden by Renée Nichols
Rygar Teddy Baloo ridden by Grace Morton
Windmill Telor ridden by Natasha Taylor
Girl Power
Supreme and reserve supreme exhibits are photographed with judge Dewi Evans, Wendy Burt, Barbara Green and Roland Williams
Welsh National Foal Show 2023 | Royal Welsh Agricultural Society’s Showground, Builth Wells Matthew Everitt showed his own winning section B foal, Wagtail Empress (Waxwing Arco x Wagtail Eleanor) The quality filly, also known as Biddy, went on to stand champion section B foal, reserve champion section B and then stood supreme foal and supreme of show. Despite being so young, she’s already gained notable success in the showring while shown on her dam. She was champion Welsh section B at Durham County Show, reserve champion at NPS Area 4 where she went on to stand supreme foal, a title she also claimed at East Midlands WPCA. She also stood youngstock champion and reserve overall to her sire at the Lincolnshire All Welsh Show. Reserve supreme was the winning Welsh section D yearling filly and section champion, Clyngim Lady Heti (Geler Boas x Clyngim Rosa), bred, owned and shown by Bethan James. She pipped champion section D foal, Brynithon Billie Jean (Thorneyside The Kingpin x Brynithon Cleopatra), owned and bred by the Meyrick family and shown by Brad Meyrick.
Wagtail Empress
Clyngim Lady Heti Brynithon Billie Jean
Gethin Williams produced both champion and reserve section A. Champion was Afan Rosezee (Afan Happy Boy x Afan Ragdoll), the winning yearling filly of her section, and reserve was Afan Welshcake (Afan Rock Star x Afan Waterfall), the winning filly foal. Both fillies were bred by Dennis Price, but Welshcake is now owned by Sue Williams. A second pretty palomino section A, Glebdale Jolene (Pendock Paige Boy x Pendock Jingle) headed home with the prospective riding pony championship having won the yearling class. Afan Welshcake and Afan Rosezee
Deryk Dykes showed John Welsh’s Newgap Bewitched (Popsters Rocket Man x Tybanadl Melissa) to stand section C foal champion and reserve overall. However, the fillies didn’t have it all their own way. Standing section champion was Martin Grist’s Windmill Twm (Blaencila Ashley x Windmill Tlysni), shown by Rhys Freeman. He won the yearling colt class en route to the championship. The Welsh section B championship was also awarded to the winning yearling colt. This was Janpete Prince Charming (Cadlanvalley Masterclass x Janpete Golden Felicity), owned by the Telynau Stud and shown by Llion Owen Roberts. Finally, Jamie Nottingham’s Foxprims Mr Shelby (Brynseion Dancing Dervish x Little Bit Famous) took the Welsh Partbred championship led by Gareth Lapping.
Glebedale Jolene Windmill Twm
Newgap Bewitched
Janpete Prince Charming
Foxprims Mr Shelby
Northern Stars
Overall Supreme Champion, Dinky Dolphin ridden by Isobel Miller
North Wales Showing Finals 14th-15th October 2023 Report and photos supplied by Emma Jones
The poor weather didn’t dampen the spirits on the first day of the North Wales Showing Finals, and in only the second year of running, there were very encouraging entries with some classes enjoying over 20 forward. Over the summer months over 40 shows in the North Wales and border areas have offered qualification to the finals, and with nearly 70 classes available over the two days, it has been a wonderful success to not only have so many competitors, but also to see everyone enjoying themselves at the season finale. The day began with the plaited ponies indoors and the show horses outdoors, but the rain and hail soon stopped play in the outdoor arena and a quick reshuffle to the timetable allowed all other classes to continue indoors, it made the day a little longer but was a worthy decision. Smiles throughout the show were in abundance from the minis receiving gifts as well as rosettes and the
champions all receiving stunning rugs supplied by Galloping Geldings. The plaited pony championship went to Millie Camara and Wytchwood Sweet Wendy, a new combination that has now come together. The horse championship went to Frankby First Edition and Charley Quinn. Rhosyn Blossoms
Overall Reserve Supreme Champions Godebog Rhosyn Arian and Poppy Miller
The M&M ridden classes were very well supported and were split to welsh large and small and a mixed non welsh class. The Welsh As and Bs were out in force and the winner Godebog Rhosyn Arian took the championship. This little mare is in her first season with Isobel Miller in the saddle. There was some very strong competition in the cobs and coloureds classes. Darnau Big Business took the title in the cob exceeding 143cm and the section championship, and standing reserve was Psycho Sabino and Sharron Rowe.
Day 1’s Ridden Supreme, Wytchwood Sweet Wendy ridden by Milie Camara
The veteran class were split into two age groups the
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Ridden and followed on to take the Mini championship and Poppy Dutton took the runner-up spot riding Tryfel Zorro. The evening performance began with the best rider classes, it was lovely to give the competitors a time to shine later in the day and taking away the confirmation of the ponies and to concentrate on their own ability. There was some strong contention, they all tried to up their game and show off their best moves. The best rider of the year champion status went to Esther Tilbury and Brynbella Foxy Lady and reserve went to Poppy Dutton.
Show Horse Champion Frankby First Edition
Reserve In Hand Champions Owen Kelly and Molly
The inhand folk were also given the same opportunity to shine, with handler classes from tiny tots to seniors. Mia Waters and Giovanni hold the handler of the year title and the reserve went to Owen Kelly showing Molly. When the judge asked Owen if he would show his pony for him, Owen responded, “I will if you pay me,” much to the judge’s amusement! I’m sure Owen has his sights on the Price Family championship in the future. Bright Skies for Day Two The second day’s competition included inhand and workers classes. Luckily the weather had changed for the better and the Equidris were not needed.
Veteran Champion Carrwood Valentine Brogan Douglas Jones
champion of the section went to Brogan Douglas-Jones and Carrwood Valentine. The mini classes were full of smiles and cheer from tiny tots to those attempting to go it alone for the first time, Boothsdale Bethan who has been contending the season in first riddens has recently come out in lead rein classes with Leia Trotman, they took the M&M lead rein title one of the strongest classes of the day. Poppy Dutton was on a winning streak taking wis in both the First Year First Ridden and plaited First Ridden. Lili Ritchie and Steephill Denman took the title in the M&M First
Leia Trotman rides Boothsdale Bethan
Inhand Champion Dowhills Regal Capriole shown by Mark Thomas and Res Champion Maat Charisma shown by Catherine Willkinson
The coloured and cob classes kicked off the inhand ring with massive entries, not the numbers expected when planning started 12 months ago. With around 20 forward in each class meant that parking was very tight. Dylasau Master Jericho and Gemma Rush took the coloured class and Psycho Sabino with a new novice handler Lee Kempster took the cob, they later took the reserve champion also. Its great to see the novice handlers coming forward and doing so well.
Inhand M&M Champion Braynescroft Calista shown by Steph Jones
The inhand section championship went to the beautiful part bred Dowhills Regal Capriole owned by Kimberly Gray and shown by Mark Thomas, the pair also took the championship for another section in the afternoon.
The small breed youngstock stole the show in the M&M inhand section, champion went to Braynescroft Calista with Steph Jones and reserve to Llafar Absolutely Fabulous and Jenna Dart.
Restricted Champion and Reserve Mini Champion Mini Champion Steephill Denman ridden by Lili Ritchioe Tryfel Zorro ridden by Poppy Dutton
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This year an inhand Welsh section was introduced to promote the breeders of our wonderful native ponies. The Welsh youngstock champion Moelyparc Thowra handled by a very young lady Gwenfair Evans, great to see the children standing their own against the adult handlers. The reserve again went to Llafar Absolutely Fabulous and Jenna Dart. The senior section champion went to last year’s supreme winner Llwyngarth Maria and Rachel Helme while the reserve went to Foeluchaf Alun Wyn and Amber Morris. The home-produced champion went to Amber Morris and the section D Foeluchaf Alun Wyn. Dinky Dolphin Dominates Workers Another new addition to the schedule this year was the working hunter style and performance classes, they were a great opportunity for the competitors to see some of the fences they would come across later in the day but also just to concentrate on their jumping phase and their technique. The classes ranged from 35cm to 85cm all with great entries. The section champion went to Isobel Miller and Dinky Dolphin following a wonderful round and Heidi Farrer riding Lilly.
Inhand M&M Reserve Champion Llafar Absolutely Fabulous shown by Jenna Dart
The fences were then lowered for the mini workers, again classes with great talent and ones to watch for the future. Olivia Cwiklinski and Ivor the Engine won the Lead Rein WHP class, but Meelie Turner and Cwmhir Mariette took the section championship with Lili Ritchie and Steephill Denman in reserve. Both these girls have a great work ethic and are a credit to their parents, being always happy, polite and grateful. The afternoon brought out the older competitors with plaited, M&Ms and the over 153cm working hunters. The tracks were full up and had some challenges.
Home Produced Inhand Champion Foeluchaf Alun Wyn shown by Amber Morris
Olivia Cwiklinski and Ivor the Engine winners of the Lead Rein WHP
Clears weren’t easy to get. Dinky Dolphin and Isobel Miller took the section title with Hannah De Boorder and Masterpieces Last Request in reserve. Sister Act The evening drew to a close with the overall supreme which was open to any champion or reserve over the two days saw some of Saturdays competitors return for the big one. With Welsh colour pompom sashes and a LeMieux rug up for grabs, who wouldn’t? The coveted title went to the working hunter champion Dinky Dolphin and Isobel Miller and reserve went to her little sister Poppy with the M&M Ridden Champion Godebog Rhosyn Arian. On the whole the show was an amazing success, and a great weekend was had by many. We wish everyone a wonderful winter and good luck to those competing at Stars and London International Horse Show.
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Showing for everyone
info@theshowingregister.co.uk theshowingregister.co.uk
BSPS Heritage Championships
Nipna Invictus ridden by Caitlin Hamilton
Arena UK, Grantham, 14-15th of October, 2023, Photos by Equinational Though the rain in the preceding days meant many were concerned for conditions, the Arena UK team worked hard to ensure that despite even the prior evening’s downpour, the rings were in good condition.
A glut of former and reigning HOYS winners made a successful bid for a ticket to the LIHS. One such former winner was Fell pony Willmont Braveheart who continues to be ridden and produced by Emma Burrow.
Caitlin Hamilton’s former RIHS junior and young riders champion, Nipna Invictus (Victor) stood overall supreme. The Dales gelding has had a quiet year on account of Caitlin settling into a new role working with children with additional educational needs, a role she said she “is absolutely loving”. Victor looked a picture, and the pair gave polished performances that totally belied their lack of milage this season.
Susan Poole’s double HOYS winner Eastlands Dunedin and Lauren Beaumont secured their ticket by winning the Connemara ‘Best of Breed’ class. Lauren has since announced that she is expecting her second baby in 2024, meaning that Harry will have extra special cargo to carry round the LIHS arena. We wish all three luck!
Briar Puzzle ridden by Alexia Lilley
Willmont Braveheart with Emma Burrow in the saddle, framed by judges Paul Cook and Steven Hulston
Shetland pony Briar Puzzle and rider Alexia Lilley proved sometimes tiny is mighty, impressing judges to stand supreme mini champions. Alexia and Puzzle have had a great season, qualifying for HOYS as both a mountain and moorland lead rein and first ridden pony. After standing fifth in the open Welsh section A class at HOYS, our 2023 team members Thistledown El Toro and Kashia Boghal booked a spot to see Santa, qualifying for the London International Horse Show.
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Thistledown El Toro ridden by Kashia Boghal
Ravenstone Fudge II ridden by Stephanie Turner with judges Lizzie Briant and Joanne Griffin
When we last saw Sarah Field ride at LIHS, she also had special cargo on board her own Connemara pony. This year, however, Jasper will be watching from the sidelines as Mum, Sarah, rides Abigail Allen’s first-timer Carrock Comet. The young Dales pony has exceeded all expectations this year by qualifying for HOYS on his first attempt at Derbyshire Festival, and for London at the Heritage. Enjoying her first ride back in the ring after her second baby, Hannah Turnock didn’t look in the slightest bit rusty, steering her own Welsh section C Menai George to win the Welsh section C semi final and the Welsh sections C and D RIHS qualifier, booking two trips south, to London and Hickstead respectively. Stephanie Turner’s New Forest pony Ravenstone Fudge II showed he’s more than a pretty face by not only booking a spot in the LIHS lineup, but also winning the novice exceeding 143cm working hunter pony class. Sarah Weston’s homebred reigning HOYS mountain and moorland reserve champion Westown Wild Fire went one better. The Dartmoor stallion won both his novice working hunter pony classes under producer Sarah Parker, also taking a tricolour from both sections. Somerset-based producer Jessica Talbot had a super weekend, rounding off a cracking season by bagging not one, but three LIHS tickets. Reigning RIHS winner, Blackthorn Poldark will be representing the Exmoor breed, and after
Sharptor Kingpin ridden by Jessica Talbot
Westown Wild Fire
Eastlands Dunedin ridden by Lauren Beaumont
Cadlanvalley Masterclass ridden by Libby Grota
standing second at RIHS and at HOYS, Rookery Bold as Brass will be joining the other Welsh section As forwards. Finally, Julian Walters and David Hodge’s homebred Sharptor Kingpin booked two tickets, one to the LIHS and the other to the 2024 RIHS.
Menai George ridden by Hannah Turnock
First-year university student Libby Grota rode Steph Mansfield’s Welsh section B Cadlanvalley Masterclass to stand novice champion and qualify for the London International Horse Show, with the young stallion going with maturity beyond his years. Similarly, Debbie Chadwick’s young Fell stallion Hedgethorpe Expect the Unexpected lived up to his name by winning rider Joe Watson a very unexpected London qualification in the Fell Best of Breed class. Joe also qualified his own and partner Rob McIvor’s Dales stallion Griseburn Major by winning the Highland, Fell and Dales semi final.
Carrock Comet ridden by Sarah Field
Hedgethorpe Expect The Unexpected ridden by Joe Watson
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Ten minutes with Emma Holder
Emma (Equinational)
When did you first...choose showing and why? My love for showing started at a very young age as my mum (Gayle Holder) was already a show producer and being brought up with ponies was how my passion began. When did you first...make a profit on a horse and what did you spend the money on? My mum gave me some money so my friend and I bought a little pony which we smartened up, got going and sold it before treating ourselves to a little holiday in Tenerife. Who was your first…hero rider?
Gayle, always something of an inspiration
Allister Hood – he is a class rider. But my mum has always been a hero to me in the saddle, too. What is the first thing you associate with horses? Hard work and graft! When did you first…realise there was something special about Worsenden Priscilla She is my favourite, special girl and I realised that the first time I sat on her. What is the first…thing you’d choose from a menu? Definitely a steak! Where’s your first...choice of holiday destination and why? Barbados. My mum and I got our first holiday away together in a very long time, so it made it even more special. 24 | Showing World | December Issue 2023 | info@showingworldonline.co.uk
Emma’s hero Allister Hood (Equinational)
Emma with her mum, Gayle, and brother, Jack, who is a farrier
What is the first… thing you look for in a horse? I always look for good feet, as my brother is a farrier, and a kind eye. When did you last.....get a haircut? Just before Horse of the Year Show. When did you last...show your competitive streak? This week at an unaffiliated dressage competition! I never win and I was determined to do it and I did! There’s a first time for everything. What is the last…thing you do before leaving the yard? Before I leave the yard, I turn off all the lights and check bolts on the stable doors. When did you last…. go ice-skating? I love ice skating and go regularly! It’s definitely something I’d like to do more if I had the time. When did you last…get hooked on a TV series? I only have time to watch TV in the winter, but I loved The Crown. What is the last…thing you tell a child before they enter the ring? I always wish the children good luck, to smile and enjoy it. When did you last…treat yourself after a win? At the Hickstead Derby meeting this year I qualified my large hack Stage Tiger and as I only had her there competing, we treated ourselves to a bottle of champagne and enjoyed the afternoon (this is a rare occasion!).
Emma with the rest of Team Holder, 2022 Team of the Year
When did you last…have a sleepless night? A while ago! I love sleep and it would take a lot to disturb me. A horse I’d love to take in the show ring is… Laura Collett’s London 52. He is a fabulous horse and has it all. He’s elegant, powerful, and a horse I would definitely love to ride. His talent over a fence and faultless execution on the flat is amazing to watch. He’s a superstar.
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Horse of the Year Show 2023
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Swan Lake Takes Supreme Stage Part-bred Pony of the Year Swan Lake lifted the coveted pony supreme title on the show’s final night. The 148cm five-year-old was bred by owner Jerome Harforth and David Dixon, and ridden by Sophie Staveley.
Sophie asked if she could have her for the season. The pair got off to great start, qualifying for HOYS on their first attempt at the Royal Three Counties in June, and winning a second qualifier at Cheshire a week later.
Swan Lake cut an exquisite picture under the lights in the Andrews Bowen International Arena, but her breeding means she was surely destined for showring greatness. Her mother, Dance All Night was twice RIHS supreme and also won the 148cm show pony class at HOYS. Meanwhile she is by the celebrated Llanarth Top Cat, who was exported to Australia, but thankfully, not before Jerome had purchased some of his semen on UK soil.
The success was made all the more special as it was 33-year-old Sophie’s first win, and Jerome’s first supreme with a homebred pony. “It’s a breeder’s dream,” said Jerome, adding, “I knew she was special as soon as she was born.”
Swan Lake first caught the showing community’s attention when she was a yearling and stood reserve in two Price Family Supreme In Hand Championship qualifiers. Sophie had come to know Swan Lake when working for Jerome, and when she didn’t have a jockey for the 148cm class,
A short while later, Guys Mears’ Forgeland Hyde Park (Will) looked breathtaking under the lights of the Andrews Bowen International Arena having been crowned supreme horse. Will was ridden by a beaming Danielle Heath, his producer of several years, who was ticking off a bucket list ambition to score a major supreme. 12-year-old Kilvington Scoundrel gelding Will has looked a serious contender in several supremes, including the 2022 RIHS where he and Danielle finished on equal marks with View Point only to wind up reserve after a spectacular “ride-off”.
The pair had won the hack championship for the third time en route to the supreme at HOYS, where he has also stood intermediate champion twice. They have an equally enviable three hack titles at the RIHS, and earlier this summer, Will and Danielle made RIHS history by winning the large hack class for the fifth time and breaking the record run of the Carey family’s Pearly King . “He’s such a showman,” said Danielle. “He always rises to the occasion. He carries it off and I can just enjoy the moment. To do it on a horse like this is a once in a lifetime moment.” Owner Guy’s newly-wed daughter Isabella – Izzy - Woods has notched up a number of intermediate titles with Will, and now that she is out of class, she will take up his reins in hack classes next season. Izzy said: “He just deserves it. He wants to win it more than we do. It’s everything we’ve ever dreamed of. He’s always doing more and giving more. For him to finally get that recognition of the Supreme title is all we ever wanted for him.”
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Gwynfaes Seren Wledig shown by Dorian Lloyd
The Price Family Supreme In Hand Final There were 13 ponies qualified for the Price Family Supreme In-Hand of the Year. 11 of the thirteen were native ponies, and the remaining two both carried Welsh blood.
Castle Nero shown by Simon Charlesworth
In the end, it was the only Welsh cob qualified that rose to the top of the line. This was Meirion, Diane and Caleb Evans’ Gwynfaes Seren Wledig. 12-year-old Welsh section D stallion Seren was handled by his producer of several seasons, Dorian Lloyd. Seren and Dorian qualified for the for the NEC-based championship by standing supreme at the Royal Welsh show where Seren had already followed in his father Gwynfaes Culhwch’s footsteps by taking the coveted Prince of Wales cup for the champion Welsh section D. Seren is lightly but successfully shown. He first showed his star quality when he stood youngstock champion at Lampeter as a twoyear-old, and he later went on to stand supreme champion at Lampeter twice and reserve supreme at Glanusk, and stood reserve champion male at the Royal Welsh in 2017 and 2018. As fate would have it, his championship at Builth Wells coincided with Caleb’s 18th birthday. Caleb and Seren have been closely allied since the pair appeared on an children’s TV show together when Caleb was just five, and Seren a foal. At the time, Meirion had agreed to sell Seren to Canada as one of two foals to make a driving pair, but Caleb was insistent that he was not to be sold as he
was special, stating, “mae e’n seren,” meaning ‘he’s a star’. Consequently, an alternative was found and sent to Canada.
by the occasion, and the crowd got behind his powerful, athletic display of paces in the Top Spec arena and again, later in the championship where he finished in reserve.
This was the first time that Dorian had qualified for the prestigious final, and first time for Seren to Clearly speechless, Meirion said: “As dairy be shown indoors. He certainly wasn’t intimidated farmers and Welsh cob breeders, the Wednesday
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Tremarl Timber shown by Simon Charlesworth
of the Royal Welsh is eagerly awaited at Gwynfaes. I didn’t think the Royal Welsh could be topped, but I’m blown away and lost for words”. Finishing second was Lord Vesty’s Castle Nero, a five-year-old Connemara stallion. Bred by Henry O’Toole, he is closely related to the winning ridden Connemara, Castle Kestrel, both being by Glencarrig Knight. On his mother Castle Urchin’s side, Nero is a brother to Kestrel’s mother, Castle Melody. He was handled by producer Simon Charlesworth but was handed over to Simon’s dad, Alan in the championship as Simon had enjoyed a dream-like day, also winning the horse section with Tremarl Timber (Tim). It was Simon and Tim who eventually went on to stand 2023 Price Family Supreme In Hand champion. Tim is owned by Paul Mortimer and Angela Smith, and he’s produced by Angela’s daughter Vicky Smith. Bred by Jane Smith by Timolin out of Exclusive III, he was first spotted by Vicky, who persuaded her mum and Paul to purchase him between them.
in Cheshire is my excuse, but she said she’d keep sending me photos and videos and I just told her, ‘look, I trust you completely,’ and that was that,” said Paul, adding, “It’s a fairy tale. I just can’t explain how it feels; it’s just a fairy tale. I’m so pleased I can’t tell you. We’ve had a lot of bad news over this summer, and so it means so much.” The plan is now to back Tim and try a few novices next year before seeing what the future holds for him as an open horse. “Who knows?” said Paul, but we’ve a feeling there will be plenty more success coming their way. Second in the class was one of Vicky’s good friends, Steve Lemon, who last showed one of Vicky’s in the Price Supreme in 2021. This time he handled the low-milage brood mare, Calliope
(Luna) on behalf of owners Philip Jones and his wife Megan Kellet-Jones. The sport horse broodmare stood supreme at Aintree National Show to qualify. The Renkum Calliano eightyear-old was shown with her Grafenstolz colt foal at foot. Philip, who also owns Luna’s full brother, purchased Luna as a foal and has retained her first foal by Future Illusion. This was just Luna’s third show, and it will be the first time that either she or her owners show at HOYS. Nevertheless, the quality mare took it all in her stride, turning heads and leaving onlookers questioning why they hadn’t seen her before. Hopefully, we’ll see more of Luna in the showring as she’s certainly proven she’s more than deserving of a judge’s attention. Calliope shown by Steven Lemon
Vicky asked Simon to take a look at him and to show him, if he liked him. “He took one look over the door and said, ‘he’ll do,’ and then promptly agreed to show him,” said Vicky, laughing. The pair went on to qualify on Tim’s showring debut at the SHB Hunter Championships. Their success delighted all connections. “I’ve come here to watch Vicky all these years and not had a horse of my own here,” said Angela, “and now I have a winner!” HOYS was the first time that Paul had actually seen Tim in the flesh. “I’m in Yorkshire and she’s info@showingworldonline.co.uk | December Issue 2023 | Showing World | 29
Former Racehorse First Past The Post
Minella Rebellion ridden by Katie Dashwood
Spectators on the show’s final morning saw Minella Rebellion (Reg) and Katie Dashwood prove that the former racehorse is now every bit the show horse, holding his own against the country’s top riding horses to win the large riding horse class and take the overall title. Reg was initially purchased for £90,000 at a Tattersalls Ireland sale in Cheltenham in 2016. “His trainer, Nicky Henderson, is now particularly chuffed that he personally picked him out and bought him, having loved his confirmation,” said Katie. Reg is by King’s Theatre and is a full brother to former star chaser, Balthazar King. He finished third on his debut in a hurdle race having started favourite. His four subsequent runs proved to be disappointing, and he pulled up in his last race at Hexham in 2017. It was a recommendation from Katie’s friend, former Gold Cup winning trainer Henrietta Knight, that led her to acquire him during lockdown. “I believe that when looking at a horse, you need vision to see how and whether they can adapt to a new job, but you should always trust your instincts. I loved Reg and everything about him from the moment I first laid eyes on him; I could see immediately there was so much about him. It really was love at first sight and I couldn’t stop thinking about him as I drove home,” said Katie. In their first season in 2021, Katie and 12-year-old Reg enjoyed a phenomenally successful season winning the coveted Jockey Club supreme of show title and winning the SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse of the Year at HOYS, giving Katie her first HOYS win, something Katie described at the time as “beyond my wildest dreams.” She added: “It’s a
well-known joke amongst my friends that my first ever ticket to HOYS in 2021 virtually – but not quite! – coincided with me receiving my bus pass. Never, ever did I think I would ride there or hear my horse’s name being called forward as the winner.” She can now proudly boast two wins and a championship. “I am waiting to be woken up, I simply cannot believe it,” said Katie when asked how she felt after the class! “He felt really good at five o’clock this morning; he was really with me and I felt really happy with him, and because I didn’t think I had a chance I just went in there to enjoy it.” Last season saw the pair win and stand champion at Three Counties and at Windsor Horse Show and finish runner up in the ROR supreme championship. Earlier this season they repeated their Windsor win as well as the Three Counties tricolour and the reserve in the Hickstead Tattershall final. He is produced on Katie’s behalf by Jo Bates whose “brilliance” Katie credits in making Reg a “lovely ride”. Watching ringside, Jo said that she was “just so proud of them both; they’ve both come so far. It’s lovely to see him now truly hold his own as an open show horse as well as a former racehorse.” Reg is just the second former racehorse to win an open show class at HOYS. The first was Gosh, who won the riding horse championship in 2005 before going on to be the first winner of the R2R class in 2006. Reserve to Reg was the second placed large riding horse, Legend in Manhattan (Harry), owned by Samantha De La Hey and ridden by Gemma Rees. The Leander eight-yearold was bred by Vicky Hesford in partnership with her
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dear friend, the late Clare Twiston-Davies, being out of Clare’s hack mare Maid In Manhattan. Tragedy almost struck when Harry stood on a nail, and it looked touch-and-go whether he would survive the ordeal. Two separate vet practices advised that he be put to sleep, but in a last-ditch attempt, Vicky contacted Yorkshire-based Peter Hodgkinson, whom she credits with saving his life. In a fairytale moment, Harry rewarded Vicky for her faith in him by winning the large riding horse class and reserve champion at the RIHS last year. He has since moved ownership and to Adam Winbourne’s yard for production. Adam asked Gemma to pilot him this season, and the pair fared phenomenally, qualifying for the RIHS, and standing champion at both New Forest and Hampshire County Show and Bucks County. Interestingly, Gemma piloted the Debbie Thomas produced Chiddock Spot On and Oldcourt Balilika to the last hunter pony championship at Wembley and the first children’s riding pony championship at the NEC. “He’s a beautiful ride,” said Gemma. “I feel really lucky to have had the opportunity to ride him this season for Samantha and her daughter Claudia.” Harry’s half-sister, Manhatten, won the small hack final and the reserve spot with Harriet Dennison in the saddle for team Helliwell. The six-year-old is another by Kilvington Scoundrel who pipped Robert Walker and Parkgate Royal Visit. Ride judge Mathew Lawrence said: “A hack should really ‘sit’ in canter, stay light in front and carry the rider forward. Sadly, not all of them did, but our top horses in both classes went as I would have hoped.”
Legend In Manhattan ridden by Gemma Rees
Manhatten ridden by Harriet Dennison Rosemore Midnight Rendezvous ridden by Justine Armstrong Small
The win marked a coming of age for Harriet, being the first horse title that she has won. It was a particularly sweet victory as Harriet broke her tibula and fibula earlier in the year, and it was unclear at that point if she would ride again all season, if at all. She made a remarkable comeback to win both large intermediate riding type and hynter type classes at the RIHS and later the new intermediate championship introduced at the BSPS Summer Championships. But the “icing on the cake” came at HOYS, said Harriet. “It was my first time in the hacks, Manhatten is only young and we had only done a handful of hack classes during the year so I was so shocked and surprised but delighted to win.”
In the small class, Justine Armstrong rode Jane and Sophie O’Keeffe’s Rosemore Midnight Rendezvous (Dissarono) to the win. The nine-year-old is something of a mystery as his breeding is not recorded on his passport, nevertheless, Justine said “We always knew he had the potential to do this, but it just never seemed to be the right time until today.” Sophie echoed her sentiments. “I’m in complete shock. We knew he was a good one but we weren’t expecting this. Dissarono had previously been in the ribbons at both HOYS and RIHS, even coming a close second at the latter. However, this season he has come into his own. He started the season as he meant to go on standing champion riding horse with Justine and intermediate with Sophie at Wiltshire Horse Show Spring, then stood champion at the Hickstead Derby Meeting and third at the RIHS. Justine was visibly thrilled to be back at the top of the line, punching the air as she walked forwards to receive her rosettes. It was especially sweet as the show marked 20 years since she posted a HOYS win, having last done so in 2003 when she went on to stand supreme on Working Hunter of the Year, Zin Zan. In second was Simon Altham’s Shildon’s Regal Gold. He is out of breeder Vicky Rudd’s prolific getter of prize-winners, Colbeach Regal Model [Reggie], and is by Dutch Gold. A former winner of the novice riding horse class at Windsor, he also stood supreme novice at the 2021 BSHA championships and reserve champion at HOYS last year ridden by Adam Forster. Since then, he has changed hands and his reins have been taken up by Harry Peck.
Dunedin Done It James Burchell pulled off a HOYS/RIHS double after winning the M&M junior small breeds class riding his grandmother’s home-bred – Rowfantina Orlando Bloom. The grey Welsh section A has had an incredible season having become the new RIHS UKPH M&M young riders champions at Hickstead in July. James’ grandmother, Mandy Burchell Small, bred Orlando Bloom by Broekland Allesandro out of Rowfantina Old Times, one of her most adored and consistent broodmares. “I’m absolutely amazed,” said Mandy. “It’s just incredible. I was so nervous because after winning at the RIHS it came with a bit of pressure, so when they got to the final countdown it was nerve racking to hear whether they had won or come nowhere!” James’ uncle, Owen, won HOYS in 2000 when Mandy showed Orlando’s grand dam Rowfantina Old Fashioned on the lead rein and stood mini champions. Orlando, who is produced by Mandy’s son Oliver and wife Jo, is a former RIHS first ridden winner, and has also been shown on the lead himself this year with James’ younger sister Isabelle on board. “He’s proved he can do it all from lead rein to first ridden and juniors,” added Mandy. “We’ve had a fantastic season and is definitely worth all the hard work through the winter months.” The pair went on to stand reserve champions to the large winners – Lucinda Leeming and Susan Poole’s Eastlands Dunedin (Harry). The Connemara gelding cut an exquisite Eastlands Dunedin ridden by Lucinda Leeming
Rowfantina Orlando Bloom ridden by James Burchell with sponsor Sarah Weston
picture with Lucinda and didn’t turn a hair out of place throughout the class and championship. He’s produced by Lauren Beaumont, who rode him to win the open Connemara of the Year class last year and eighth place 49 hours previously. “Never in my wildest dreams did I think this would be possible,” said a very emotional Susan of her two-time HOYS winner. Despite being a new combination, this season, Lucinda and Dunedin were champion at North of England Spring on their debut, booking a ticket to the RIHS where they finished fourth. They also qualified for HOYS on their first attempt, standing top in an enormous class at NCPA Derbyshire Festival. Susan purchased the nine-year-old as a raw, unbroken three-year-old from his breeders Dianna and John Staveley in Eskdalemuir, Scotland, and he was sent directly to Lauren who has overseen all his training and production since. He is out of Eastlands Dunrose and by Eastlands Harleybrae, a winner of the prestigious HOYS breeders award for being the most successful sire of ponies who have competed in HOYS competitions, much to Dianna’s delight having been running the stud for 33 years. Despite being almost 84 years old, Dianna is almost always up-and-about by 5am to tend to the animals on the couple’s hill farm, which is 600 to 2000 ft above sea level. “They [the ponies] can do whatever their owner wants them to do because they enjoy work. Here, they live on the hills of the moor learn to cross ditches, dykes and natural obstacles from an early age and they must find a fifth leg.”
San Siro Rocks Mini Championship The Leeming family had yet more to celebrate when their ultra consistent multi-garlanded Thistledown San Siro (Rocky) took the mini mountain and moorland championship. By Blackhill Piccolo out of Thistledown Xenon, 12-year-old Rocky has been a fantastic pony for both Leeming children, Lucinda and William, racking up multiple wins under both at the RIHS and winning the ridden Welsh section A of the Year under Lucinda at HOYS 2022. This time, however, Lola Carabine rode him to the win and tricolour, with William choosing instead to take the reins in the mountain and moorland junior small breeds and open breed classes. However, in a twist of fate, William and Rocky were reunited in the supreme as Lola was lucky enough to secure a second championship with a long-term ride. We’ve more on that later! Speaking after Lucinda’s success, Diana described the week as a “dream show” adding that she would be “doubled up on nerves” contemplating Lucinda and Rocky entering the supreme, and that was before it transpired that William would be joining them, too!
Thistledown San Siro
In reserve was second placed first ridden Brynrodyn Danielle. The pretty palomino Welsh section A was ridden by Victoria Neachell on behalf of owner Siwan Ward and producer Jill Rushton. Bred by Gareth Parry by prolific stock-getter Cwmhendy Buster out of Crumpwell Serena, her full sister, Danika, was also placed sixth in the lead-rein final. However, it was Dartmoor pony Springwater Tactician who won the lead rein class, led by Craig Elenor. He was ridden by owner Heather Clay’s son Finley. Seven-year-old Tactician was bred by Nicola and Philip Tyler and is by Hisley Diplomat out of Springwater Tatyana. Tactician arrived at Team Elenor as a youngster with the intention that Craig should show him in hand. Finding him to be a diamond, Craig and partner Sara were reluctant to let him go and have produced him ever since! Last year, Craig and Finlay steered Tactician into second place at both the RIHS and HOYS, but this year they managed to go one better at both, also standing reserve at Hickstead. Craig and Finlay also partnered the inimitable little diamond that is Cadlanvalley Super Ted to stand second in the lead rein of show hunter type class, repeating last year’s fate. But it was Sharn Linney’s team who consigned the second placed mountain and moorland lead rein to the ring. This was Jullie Millard’s Thistledown Vodka Soda, ridden by Mia-Bella Long and led by Sharn’s safe hands.
Brynrodyn Danielle Springwater Tactician
Blenheim Brilliant to Retain His Crown Taking the overall Children’s Riding Pony of the Year title for the second time consecutively was the reigning RIHS part-bred pony Ardenhall Blenheim (Joules), ridden by a visibly stunned Lola Carabine, who alternated between a disbelieving hand over her head and touching hugs for Joules as they proceeded forwards to be presented their spoils. Lola, and Joules cut a perfect picture to secure the 128cm class en route to the championship. Joules is owned by Jenny Harker and is produced by her daughter, Victoria Harker. Jenny has owned the 14-year-old gelding for eight years. He was initially ridden by Jenny’s youngest daughter, Emma, with the pair enjoying tremendous success including standing second at both HOYS and the RIHS. When Emma was out of class, Jenny felt that they “could never come to sell him,” and so it was decided that Lola should take over the reins from Emma in 2021. In their first season, the pair finished fourth at RIHS and third at HOYS, and their subsequent success is nothing short of dream-like for all connections, and surely proves Joules to be one of the most 128cm ponies on the circuit as well as an outand-out showman. In taking the Children’s Riding Pony Championship twice consecutively, Joules joins an elite few including Pretty Polly, Arden Tittle Tattle and four-times champion Holly of Spring. Colbeach Caprice ridden by Lilly Ahern Lee
Ardenhall Blenheim ridden by Lola Carabine
Joules is by Ardenhall Party Piece out of Ardenhall Champagne. Until 2022, the last of his breeder Jane May’s Ardenhall ponies to stand champion at HOYS was Ardenhall Royal Secret, who landed the coveted Royal International and HOYS championship double in 1994 with Olympic Gold Medalist Charlotte Dujardin’s sister Emma-Jayne Dujardin before going on to stand champion at RIHS and HOYS in 1996 and 1997 respectively with Charlotte. Last year, Charlotte sent Lola a card to congratulate her on her success, but this year went one better when Emma-Jayne arranged for her to speak to a star-struck Lola on the phone as they made their way back to the stables after the evening’s championship. Who knows if we’ll see Lola follow in Charlotte’s footsteps?!
Myles later lead Caprice as a foal at HOYS when Duet qualified for the Cuddy Supreme In Hand Championship, now the Price Family Supreme. Caprice has been a part of Team Ahern since a four-year-old but is only lightly shown. Nevertheless, she finished second at HOYS in both 2021 and 2022 and Lily rode her to be runner up in the RIHS 138cm final earlier this summer. Runner up in the 138cm class was Amy Binks’ Whiteleaze Debutante, ridden by Maisie Binks. The seven-year-old mare is yet another to fly the flag for sire Cusop Dimension, and she’s out of Wynmere Milly Molly Mandy. Producers Christina Gillett and Kevin Cousins ticked off another ambition when their Dibynn Miss Congeniality (Gracie) secured a first ever win for their team in the 148cm show pony class, ridden by owner Anne Thornhill’s granddaughter Scarlett Doswell. The Cusop Dimension six-yearold is out of breeder Di Nicholson’s Dibynn Chic
Interestingly, Joules’ reserve, Colbeach Caprice was also ridden to qualify at Lincolnshire County this season by his jockey Lily Ahern-Lee, 11. She is produced by Lily’s mum Alex and aunt, Kirsty Pickles on behalf of grandad, Patrick Ahern who has loaned Caprice from breeder Jerome Harforth Dibynn Miss Congeniality ridden by Scarlett Doswell for Lily. The eight-yearold by Turberry Top Cat is the last bred under the Colbeach prefix, which Jerome has presided over since its founders Virginia and Norwood White retired from breeding. She is out of Colbeach Duet who also lifted both the 138cm show pony and part-bred titles at HOYS, and the 138cm show pony class at the RIHS ridden by Myles Cooper. 34 | Showing World | December Issue 2023 | info@showingworldonline.co.uk
Flic (ZAF), a mare that Di brought with her when she emigrated from South Africa. Gracie first tasted success qualifying for HOYS in 2022 and standing fourth under previous owner Victoria Whalley in the part-bred pony class and has since gone on to stand reserve novice show pony at Royal Windsor and second in the 148cm show ponies at the RIHS. Scarlett and Gracie picked up their HOYS ticket with a tricolour at the NPS Summer Championships. In second was a pony who needs little introduction to show pony fans: Stanley Grange Gilt Edge (Edward). Also bred by Jerome Harforth by Turberry Top Cat, Edward is out of Shimmering Silk. He’s now owned by Zoe Holmes, ridden by Matilda Holmes and produced by Craig Elenor and Sara Parrott. He found fame last season under Annabel Drake, winning at Royal Windsor, standing supreme show pony at the BSPS Summer Championships and finishing their run of success by posting a win in both the part-bred pony and the 148cm show pony classes. With Annabel out of class, Edwards reins were handed to Matilda, 12, after HOYS last season and the pair have had a successful summer gelling their partnership, and ultimately qualifying at North of England Summer Show. Mini Show Ponies Emma Shepherd led her daughter Lilly-Mae Howard,7, and Woodview Iola to win the lead rein class and to stand Mini Show Pony of the Year. 11-year-old Iola was bred by Moria Barron. She is by Woodview Filidori out of Ardenhall Spellbound and Emma purchased her from Vicky Harris and Sam Woolerton on Valentine’s Day in 2021 and it was love at first sight. “We weren’t really looking for a pony of this calibre at that time as Lilly-Mae was only four years old and wasn’t even sure if she would take to the show ring,” explained Emma. Nevertheless, they took the five hour drive to Cardiff in torrential rain. “I put Lilly-Mae on her in the stable before taking her to the paddock, which was absolutely flooded like a lake; Iola never bothered and behaved like a pro so we knew instantly then we had to buy her; she stole our hearts.” 24-hours later, Emma’s parents made the 10 hour round trip to fetch her and they haven’t looked back. She remains produced from home with Emma and her parents overseeing her care. “Both my children Lilly and Tommy do everything with her at home,” said Emma. “Iola goes hacking, and they dress her up and do games on her whilst
Woodview Iola ridden by Lilly-Mae Howard and led by Claire Shepherd
riding.” Her varied life has certainly stood them in good stead, as Iola, Emma and Lilly lifted the RIHS mini championship in 2022 prior to their HOYS success this season, flying the flag high for all hardworking home-produced mums and dads! “Iola is a pony of a lifetime,” Emma concluded, “she owes our family nothing; she will never be for sale and will be moving on into first ridden with my daughter.” Interestingly, reserve to Iola at Hickstead last time was Laura Smith’s Seamoor Lady Derby (Jessie), winner of the first ridden class under Anya Dewey Clark. She stood reserve to Iola again at HOYS, but this time she graduated to the championship having stood runner up in the lead rein class ridden by Holly Smith and led by Craig Elenor. Jessie must be one of the most consistent and versatile minis on the circuit in recent years and holds a particularly good track record at Hickstead having stood mini champion twice and 2017 pony supreme as a lead rein with James Burchell in the saddle. She has also won both the lead rein and first ridden classes at HOYS, and stood reserve champion last year, again with Anya. Also in the championship were the first and second placed first riddens. Winning the class this time was producer Sharn Linney’s own Broadhurst Jeremy Fisher, an nine-year-old by Hightopps Lord of the Rings out of Barkway Piper Moon. She was ridden by fellow producer Michaela Jones’ daughter Lara-Rae,8, who thoroughly enjoyed her first trip round the NEC off the lead rein despite admitting to a few nerves before going in! Sharn explained that she wasn’t looking for a pony when she purchased Jeremy, but was sat in an A&E reception room waiting for a cast for a broken arm scrolling on her phone. “He popped up for sale and I bought him there and then as a pick me up,” said
Seamoor Lady Derby ridden by Holly Smith and led by Craig Elenor
Broadhurst Jeremy Fisher ridden by Lara Rae Jones
Sharn. Lara and Jeremy have had a fantastic season, standing champion at Area 11 to get their RIHS ticket where they finished fifth. They also competed in just two HOYS qualifiers, picking up a ticket at NCPA Staffordshire and standing champion at both! Second in the first ridden class was Litton Perfection (Bambi), ably steered by Frank Newbould. The ten-yearold by Nantcol Libretto out of Litton Dancing Pixi. The former Royal Highland champion is owned by Jane Lindsay and is leased to Frank’s mum, Sarah. This year, Frank and Bambi have had a blast, standing reserve champion at Royal Windsor, first at Royal Cheshire County and enjoying a centre line moment together topping the Blue Ribband first ridden class at the BSPS Summer Championships. They also stood runner up at Royal Highland and at the RIHS.
Ladies Man Has Winning Moves
Ladies Man ridden by Poppy Carter
Ladies Man (George), another 2022 bridesmaid took top honours in the intermediate show riding type championship. Owned and bred by Danni Radford, George was beautifully ridden by Poppy Carter to seal the deal. An emotional Danni said: “Never in a million years would I have thought I would breed him to do this. I just bred him as a nice horse for myself! I’m lost for words”. George is a first home-bred out of Danni’s lightly shown Looking Glass Image by Tiger Attack. Whilst a HOYS championship may have been beyond Danni’s dreams for the seven-year-old, George has nevertheless enjoyed a superb showring career. Last year, he secured championships at the BSPS Championships, at the Great Yorkshire Show and at the RIHS before winning the large riding type and standing first and reserve at HOYS. With the large and small types now amalgamated, he made his way into the history books by being the first to claim the title in its new format.
In reserve was a horse who needs little introduction: Parkgate Royal Visit William. Owned by Nick Brookes, he was ridden by his daughter Zara Brookes who also enjoyed a reserve in the show hunter pony ranks. The Aimbry Chester 13-year-old stood champion back in 2017 and runner up once again in 2021. Will has also had a superb run in hack classes. This summer, he made a triumphant return to the RIHS after an injury stopped him attending last year, and was crowned RIHS hack champion ridden by his producer Robert Walker. The pair had formerly won on all three appearances, and they have also won and stood second twice at HOYS. The Show Rider of the Year Award is a new award for this year presented in both of the Intermediate Championships, intended to encourage more young people to continue their competitive careers in showing and to inspire the next generation. Showing supremo Allister Hood judged, and awarded the title to Zara in the show riding type class, and to Floriann Gilston riding Chantelle Joslin’s Carnsdale Let it Be in the show hunter type class.
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HORSE OF THE SAVE THE DATE YEAR SHOW 9 - 13 OCTOBER 2024 TH
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TJ Ring Master Robert has now won the HOYS show hunter championship seven times, including with Pride And Joy II, Caesars Palace II and Vantage Point. It was Loraine Homer and Bloomfield Eloquence who stood at the top of the 22-middleweight hunter line up. The eightyear-old grey gelding is owned by Liz Prowting, and went on to stand reserve champion mirroring this year’s Royal Windsor result and repeated the exact results he achieved in 2021 as a six-year-old. “He’s a complete dude of a horse,” said Loraine. In 2021, the son of Watermill Swatch, won the ladies’ hunter class at RIHS and he won the middleweight hunter section astride at RI in 2022.
MHS Morning Master ridden by Robert Walker
A FORMER Cuddy in-hand winner returned to experience the lights of Birmingham again – heading the Catplant Group of Companies Ltd HOYS show hunter championship. Ridden by Robert Walker, who reclaimed the coveted title, Jill Day’s MHS Morning Master (TJ) was contending his first HOYS as a ridden horse, despite being an eight-year-old who Robert has had on his yard for four years. The son of Quidam Junior, out of a Cavalier Royale mare, won the in-hand supreme title in 2018 as a three-year-old. The bay gelding was bred by the Brennans and took the top spot in the horse section of the in-hand supreme final and finished reserve champion. Earlier that same year he stood champion three-year-old in Dublin and won the Pembroke Cup. TJ has been produced by Robert and his team, and he’s only been promoted into open ranks when View Point (Sean) retired last year. “When View Point retired it was inevitable that TJ would step up,” said Robert, who won the HOYS hunter championship with Sean four times during their partnership. “TJ could have qualified for HOYS for the past few years, but we had Sean and we wanted to make sure he had his time. “He’s always been a performer, a little operator who moves into his bridle. I remember him winning the four-year-olds at Royal Windsor and the judge said that he was the ride of the day.” “He’s had the most amazing season, including winning the Royal Windsor hunter championship with my groom, Aimee Stunt, and Stafford County and he finished reserve at the RIHS,” added Robert. “He’s Mr Reliable on the yard, too, which meant I slightly under did the warming up this morning. He didn’t have any ear plugs in, so he got a bit scared when the audience started clapping.” “We always set ourselves up to have a bad week as we’ve been so lucky at the NEC in the past,” Robert added. “I was pinning my hopes on the middleweight as TJ’s never been before and I we didn’t want to rush him.”
Bloomfield Eloquence ridden by Loraine Homer
Matthew Ainsworth rode Sue Hookham’s Dublin Street Fighter (James) to reclaim their Heavyweight Show Hunter of the Year title from 2021. The 11-yearold, who is by Camiro De Haarz, is now in his third season with Matthew. This season, he picked up his HOYS ticket locally at Royal Three Counties. The former Dublin four-year-old champion was purchased by Freda Newton and later found his way to James Munro and Russell Skelton before being purchased by Sue in early 2021. “He’s been phenomenal; a true heavyweight and just seems to smile at this show. He went superbly today and that’s credit to all the team. He’s very straightforward at home. My partner Charlotte basically treats him like a Labrador; he has no pressure at all. He hacks around and has a nice time.”
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Dublin Street Fighter ridden by Matthew Ainsworth
Cobenhagen
Bellvue Tomboy ridden by Matthew Cooper
Randalstown Aristocrat ridden by Jayne Ross
Day two at HOYS opened with Claire Oliver clinching the Small Show Hunter of the Year Championship for the second year running with Shanbally Legacy (Lego). The 11-yearold Irish Draught is by Pride of Meath out of Kilthomas Lass. “He just loved it in there and gave the judge the most amazing ride. Both judges just said to me ‘he’s a true small hunter; a miniature middleweight’,” said Claire. At home Lego loves hacking and jumping and he also hunted last season. “I don’t overshow him,” explained Claire. “I just pick a few shows. He’s a real happy horse. We’ve had a wonderful partnership throughout the year. To come back and win again is the icing on the cake.” We wonder if they’ll make it a hattrick in 2024? Runner up in the small hunter was Vicky Smith’s Irish Sport Horse, Irish Invention. Tomboy Gets His Day Only six of the 37 starters finished faultless round David Cole’s Sport Horse Breeding of Great Britain (SHB) working hunter track. The eventual winner was one of the smallest and oldest in the class – Bellevue Tomboy (Tommy) - who has been to HOYS on seven previous occasions and had five top nine placings. “He’s been super consistent at HOYS over the years, so it was amazing he got his day,” said Matthew, who bought Tommy, now 15, as a six-year-old. “He’s probably the smallest in the class but he absolutely loves going to a show. He’s had a win and three seconds at Hickstead, too.”
Simon Reynolds and Rowena Stephenson’s upstanding lightweight Copenhagen (Teddy) were the deserving victors of The Harrod and Coles Family 2023 HOYS cob championship. The ever-consistent Teddy has become one of the few show cobs to win both HOYS and Royal International (RIHS) in the same year. “He has always been so consistent at HOYS and in the top placings, but this was his year to fulfil what we always knew he was capable of doing,” said Simon’s wife Natalie. “He’s just such a happy horse. He loves hacking out and during Covid we discovered he could jump so he did some hunt rides with The Belvoir,” she added of the 10-year-old grey cob. “Teddy is a total yard favourite. He’s always talking when you walk past his stable and he always has his ears pricked. He should really be called Diesel, because he always comes home from a show with the prizes - he’s super reliable. At HOYS he displayed the most impeccable manners throughout standing rock solid in the prize giving – we think he was just loving all the attention, he’s a real showman,” said Natalie, who is a three-time HOYS cob champion herself with Casanova. Simon last took the overall cob tricolour at HOYS back in 2001 riding Teletubbs, but his most notable triumphs were with the maxi cob Hallmark IV, who won HOYS six times and stood supreme champion in 2013. Jayne Ross and Randalstown Aristocrat finished second to Simon and Copenhagen and went on to stand reserve champion riding the eight-yearold, owned by the Roberts family.
The heavyweight winner was Randalstown Cromwell, owned by Debbie Harrod and ridden by Ryan Anderson, and close behind the pair was Anne Vestey’s super-consistent Parc au foi Diamond, ridden as usual by Stuart Ashton. Having now had spins in championships ranging from the Royal Highland to the New Forest, Royal Windsor and Royal International, this super chap will be retiring from the ring, but will remain with Stuart and partner Richard Telford. Randalstwon Cromwell ridden by Ryan Anderson
Shanbally Legacy ridden by Claire Oliver
Jayne continued her successful streak by topping the Leeman Family’s maxi cob line up aboard Jo Baker’s Chantilly Sandman, who finished second here last season and was runner-up at Hickstead this year.
Copenhagen ridden by Simon Reynolds Chantilly Sandman ridden by Jayne Ross
Sunflower Blooms for SHP Championship Two show hunter pony winners can boast they ‘did the double’ in 2023’s season, winning both the RIHS and HOYS finals for their heights. Native bloodlines were also prominent in the show hunter pony ranks, with three ponies being Welsh section Bs, and a further two were sired by Connemara stallions. Occupying the top spots in the 122cm show hunter pony final were Redleys Theseus (Theo) and Annandale Line of Fire taking first and second respectively. Theo (Redleys Arion x Templedruid Topaz) is owned by Paul Mortimer and ridden on his behalf by his partner of several years, Izzy Walker. The pair previously won HOYS when Izzy was just a tiny eight years old. Despite having won at Hickstead in the summer, Izzy told us that she didn’t feel nervous entering the ring on account Theo being “a good boy,” and instead, said that she was “looking forward to it” and that “he felt amazing” as they prepared
Redleys Theseus ridden by Izzy Walker
Thistledown Sea Mariner ridden by Katie Parker
to enter the ring. Kevin Cousins’ Annandale Line of Fire came in second ridden by Bluebell Beechey. Bred by Vicky Stephens, the eight-year-old is out of Millcroft Spark and by Moelview Celebration, who also sired the second placed 133cm show hunter pony, Annandale Prince Charming, out of Acadame Pop Corn. The 10-year-old is owned by Stacy Basford and ridden by Millie Basford. Interestingly, he was the highest placed of four Annandale ponies forwards in the 133cm final. He was pipped to the post, however, by Edinburgh-based Leslie Parker’s Thistledown Sea Mariner under Leslie’s daughter Katie, putting the cherry on producer Sharn Linney’s already great week. The 10-year-old Welsh section B is by Paddock Sahara out of Loveden Sea Pearl. He is now in his second season with Katie, but has had a longer, decorated career under Sharn’s guidance, formerly winning the RIHS and standing reserve champion. Ironically, he stood reserve to the ubersuccessful Merrycorner Mister Bui (Buttons), who also won at HOYS and went on to stand reserve champion. Owned at the time by Guy Brookes, the Templebready Fear Bui 153cm was
ridden by Guy’s daughter Zara, who certainly made her last ride on him count, picking up his first HOYS win after taking the RIHS supreme show hunter pony accolade three times as a combination. Buttons had already taken the title once with Harriet Dennison under the watchful eye of Rachael Helliwell, to whom he has now returned for his new owner. Rob Walker, who has produced Buttons alongside his wife, Sarah said: “I was relieved that he finally picked up a win here, but for him rather than for us. He’s been a really consistent pony for Zara, and he’s done fantastically well at the RIHS where the big ring really suits his big gallop, but for whatever reason I’ve always felt he’s been a bit unlucky here. He deserved this.” The championship, however, was awarded to Dawn O’Donnell’s Morning Sunflower (Flo), ridden by Isabella O’Donnell, who was also making her last ride in the class count. The sevenyear-old is sired by Connemara stallion Rosscon Sunrise out of Downderry Maisie Jane. She is produced by Lucy Glover, and during their two-year run, she’s stood champion at Cheshire and Lincolnshire county shows, at
Derbyshire Festival, and has won Midland Counties twice. She’s also won and stood second in the £1000 supreme at North of England and she won the RIHS for the second time. Isabella was understandably emotional, as 2023 was her final season with the special mare, and Lucy was understandably delighted. Lucy first spotted her when with Ashlea Brown. “When we went to try her, I’ve never been so sure about a pony in my life; she’s so easy.” The smallest and tallest winning hunter types were greys. Tracy Brady’s Priestwood Roc Star and Grayson BradyBrooke were led to win the lead rein of hunter type by producer Sarah Newbould for the second time having already done so in 2021. 15-year-old Roc is a Welsh section B by Kingsmead Fanfare out of Carolinas Wild Goose. This season, Roc and Grayson have had a fantastic season with highlights including the lead rein show hunter pony championship at the BSPS Winter Championships, the Royal Highland Show and the Blue Ribband championship at the BSPS Summer Championships. “Roc is a true children’s pony; a real character loves his cuddles and polos,” said Tracy. “He really is a true legend who loves a variety in life. He is great off the lead, too, so next year Gray will also do tiny tots first ridden with him. He and Gray are total best friends he will be with us forever.” Jemma Ellison’s SCT Master Of The Hounds (Paddy) took the top spot in the intermediate show hunter of the year championship ridden by 19-year-old Georgina Kirby-Moore, who was visibly shocked when her win was announced. 10-year-old Paddy is by Castlegar Rebel out of Castlegar Christina, He is based with Georgina’s brothers, producers Harry and Jack Moore, but is produced by
Merrycorner Mister Bui ridden by Zara Brookes
Morning Sunflower ridden by Isabella O’Donnell
Georgina herself after he was given to her when Jemma moved to Qatar with her work. The intermediate final was Georgina and Paddy’s second class of the week, having already competed in the ladies’ side-saddle final.
Prisetwood Roc Star ridden by Grayson Brady Brooke and led by Sarah Newbould
In second was last year’s winner and the reigning RIHS intermediate and small hunter champion, Briarhill Buddy Bolden, owned by the Edmondson’s and ridden by Harriet Dennison.
SCT Master of the Hounds ridden by Georgina Kirby-Moore
Vynnes Magical Edition
Mr Ed’s Magical Moment Andrew Vine and Laura House’s home-bred New Forest stallion Vynnes Magical Edition (Mr Ed) certainly gave his connections a magical HOYS. The lightly-shown sevenyear-old is the first Vynnes pony to appear at HOYS, and was ridden by his producer, Isle of Wight-based Pip Smith to take the first red rosette of the mountain and moorland ridden section. Pip, who first set eyes on Mr Ed when she purchased his full brother from Andrew and Laura, asked if she could ride him. It certainly was a wise move, as 24-hours later, the pair went on to take the overall mountain and moorland championship in the Andrews Bowen International Arena. Mr Ed is by the successful stock-getter Applewitch Pure Magic and out of Brookshill Blackberry. A former New Forest Breed show and New Forest and Hampshire County Show champion, Mr Ed qualified under Pip at Royal Three Counties show in June, on his first appearance of the season. Bizzarrely, the reserve champion spot was awarded to the recipients of the second red rosette of the section. This was Sarah Weston’s homebred West Town Wild Fire under his producer Sarah Parker. The seven-year-old announced himself as one to watch in 2021 when he stood runner up at the RIHS and Dartmoor Pony of the Year. Last season, he stood runner-up at HOYS before returning to the top spot this time.
The two Sarah’s scored a second win with Fell pony Greenrivers Luke. The six-year-old is by Greenholme Warrior out of Greenholme Bonny. Produced by Team Parker, Luke has had a brilliant season, standing reserve champion at the Great Yorkshire and qualifying for LIHS at Edenbridge and Oxted under Rebecca Penny, who rode seven-year-old Bybeck Rodney to second place. “Both are lovely, quiet boys that give their all,” said Sarah.
Team Parker went on to secure one more win. This time, it was with the final winner of the section, Rushhill Diplomat. The six-year-old by Janpete Tom Thumb out of Mybella Demure also stood second in the 133cm mountain and moorland working hunter pony class. He was steered through the curtains into the International Arena by Sarah’s eldest son, Owen, eight, who also rode him at the LIHS last year.
Greenrivers Luke
West Town Wild Fire
Rushhill Diplomat
Sarah also consigned Leah May’s second placed Welsh section C Menai Georgie Boy and the Pennell family’s reigning RIHS reserve champion Nipna Midnight Rambler to the championship. It was bittersweet, however, with the ultra-consistent Dales standing second in his class for the third time consecutively. This time, Sarah and Rambo were pipped to the post by Emma Hodge (nee Lucas) and impeccably mannered Langrigg Thomas. Emma rode Thomas to be eighth at HOYS last year, but this is the pair’s first full season together. He belongs to John Harvey, and is intended for his niece Brooke, 17, who started riding during lockdown, and who will take over the ride next year. When asked how he felt in the ring, Emma answered “perfect,” without hesitation and beaming. It became abundantly clear that she has quite a softspot for Thomas. “He’s so good, he never puts a foot wrong,” she said. It’s difficult to believe that neither Team Harvey linchpin Emma, nor her mum, Anne, had ever enjoyed a center-line moment before, with Emma showing at HOYS since aged five, and Anne racking up an impressive tally of seconds. In contrast, Aaliyah Watson, 14, enjoyed her first center-line moment on her HOYS debut after she steered Somahouse GT (Teddy) to win the Shetland and Exmoor class. Owned by Nicola Richards, the fifteen-year-old working Shetland stallion and Aaliyah made the very long journey south from North Aberdeenshire having qualified at the 40th Shetland Pony Breed Show on the Black Isle,
Langrigg Thomas
near Inverness. Teddy is a late-comer to the ridden scene having been restarted under saddle by Aaliyah last year, meaning this is Teddy’s first full show season. He remains based with Nicola, with Aaliyah travelling to ride him. Their qualification is all the more remarkable as they have only competed at seven shows and just two qualifiers as he must split his time between his ridden and stud duties. “Since I started showing, my dream has always been to compete at HOYS,” said Aaliyah, adding, “I can’t believe what’s happened!” The Exmoor and Shetland class is by now the only combined class at HOYS. Luckily, both breeds were represented in the championship as Alice Tomlinson rode Chris Phillips’ Exmoor stallion Eddra Chillies into second place. Also taking a win on his first visit to HOYS was Amber Thorpe’s Highland stallion Marksman of Mendick. By Strathmore Airlie out of Gissings Luscardene, Marksman has been brought on slowly but successfully by Amber, who took several excellent novice championships astride the seven-year-old last season. Her plan played dividends when the pair booked a HOYS spot on their first attempt and
Somahouse GT
at the first HOYS qualifier of the year at NCPA Derbyshire. Reigning LIHS Best of Breed Dunedin Mascot and Katie Common claimed the runner up spot for the third year running. Kyle Wray and Christopher Tait’s 2022 WPCS Autumn Cob sales purchase Blaencila Rhodri more than justified his place on the team when he took the Welsh section C class under Vikki Smith. The four-year-old was bred by Gowerbased Claire Pearce Morgan and Stuart Morgan by Donys Dick Turpin out of their homebred Blaencila Ruby. He was purchased from Simon Charlesworth, who showed him lightly but successfully as a youngster. This year, he has had a busy first season standing champion at
Blaencila Rhodri
Marksman of Mendick
info@showingworldonline.co.uk | December Issue 2023 | Showing World | 43
Castle Kestrel
novice at Yorkshire Native Pony Show and Royal Lancashire Show and reserve champion at Cheshire County, before bagging a ticket to the NEC at Denbigh and Flint Show. The Connemara class saw 2022 London International champion and reigning Windsor champion Castle Kestrel come to the fore. The classy eight-year-old was ridden as ever by his producer Lucy Glover. Bred by Henry O’Toole by Glencarrig Knight out of Castle Melody, Kestrel was purchased by owner Amanda Sharman as a young colt having been spotted on social media by Lucy. They were joined in the championship by Kerry Wainwright’s 2021 HOYS winning stallion, Skellorn Déjà Vu [Dan], ridden by Harrison Taylor, who also showed the 12-year-old in the Price Family supreme.
Lledrith Nemesis
Thorneyside Guardsman
by Winneydene Gwyn Emrys out of Nerwyn Nesta. A former Windsor winner and holder of multiple tickets to prestigious finals and excellent placings over the years, Nemo bagged both his HOYS tickets within a week this year at NCPA Staffordshire and NPS Area 7. Sam Roberts was delighted, stressing how much Nemo deserved the win on account of his superb temperament and attitude to life. “He’s just such a lovely boy,” she concluded.
Proud ambassador for the home-produced masses, Katherine – Katy – Marks had a clear message for all amateur aspirants when she topped the Welsh section D lineup with her own Thorneyside Guardsman (Douglas): “I hope that they can see that if I can do it, anyone can.” The powerful 12-year-old D stallion was purchased by Katy as a three-year-old, and has been brought on by her to great success and going from strength to strength. Last year, they finished seventh at the RIHS, sixth at HOYS, and Best of Breed at LIHS. This season, Katy opened her campaign by completing a bucket-list desire to compete at Windsor with aplomb, winning both the open Welsh section Ds and the large breeds PP RIHS qualifier. They also bagged open and amateur tickets, finishing seventh in the latter. “I love this horse,” said Katy. “He’s such a lovely horse and tries so hard, he’s a pleasure to ride.” In second was another Katie: Katie Brown, riding her own Wilgar Imperial Prince. The smallest of the Welsh sections, the A, was represented in the championship by Sue Kernan’s super-consistent and versatile Lledrith Nemesis (Nemo), who also stood third in the 122cm mountain and moorland working hunter pony the following day ridden in both by long-term producer Sam Roberts. Bred by Stacey Barker, Nemo is
44 | Showing World | December Issue 2023 | info@showingworldonline.co.uk
Castra Coloured Queen It seems that 2022 runners up progressing to the top spot really was the order of the show, with yet another going on to not only win, but take overall Coloured Horse or Pony of the Year. Stephanie Fitt’s homebred Castra (Cassie) looked a beautiful picture to win the nonnative pony class en route to the overall championship where she looked even better under the lights, ridden by ridden by Rhianon Loader. The seven-year-old is by Liz MansfieldParnell’s late Strinesdale Matador out of the Oldenburg head stud book mare Fairfax C who had stood Supreme Horse at RIHS in 2014. Cassie was shown in hand as a youngster by Philip Ward Burton before being started under saddle by BD Young Rider trainer Caron Roberts and subsequently produced by Elliee Stunt. This summer, Rhianon and Cassie did the double, also standing coloured supreme pony at the RIHS and reserve overall. Cassie’s win was the icing on the cake for both Steph and Elliee. Her full sister Cleapatra stood runner up in the part bred pony 24 hours earlier, and the championship was Elliee’s first HOYS title. The reserve for the coloured tricolour Lucy Cameron’s KBF Lucia (Poppy) under Jayne Ross, who pipped Sophie Finn’s second placed Trevadlock Golden Star and Darren Crowe to the non-native horse class. KBF Lucia ridden by Jayne Ross
Castra ridden by Rhianon Loader
Poppy started her week’s campaign by making HOYS history as the first coloured horse to win the Ladies Side Saddle Horse of the Year on the show’s opening morning before taking her coloured class for the second time consecutively on the last day. Poppy has appeared just three times under the side saddle, but nevertheless gave ride judge Michelle Underwood a balanced, forwards and mannerly ride to seal the deal. The six-year-old was bred by Tony Reynolds and Michael Cook, and is sired by Free Spirit out of Seabourne Swansdown. Her sister, the uber successful KBF Crescendo, made history last year when she became the first coloured horse to win the ladies class at the RIHS and take overall supreme ridden coloured champion in the same week. Interestingly, another Seabourne-bred horse, Seabourne Red Rock III ridden by Janay Atherden
Silent Valley, stood second in the ladies class with Francoise Babington. Lisha Leeman’s reigning Royal Windsor cob and coloured champion and RIHS coloured supreme Red Rock III was one again on top form to successfully defend his class win ridden by Lisha’s daughter Janay Atherden. The 11-yearold lightweight cob was initially sourced by Camilla Neame and Val Sheehan and has enjoyed a star-studded career, first of all produced by Vicky Hesford to win HOYS and stand champion at Windsor before joining Lisha’s family team. Although borne of tragedy when Janay suffered the tragic loss of her former ride, Janay and Red have formed a wonderful partnership. Last year they stood reserve champion cob and reserve champion coloured at HOYS, and clearly had a ball together in the RIHS supreme with Janay completing part of her show with a champagne flute held high above her!
In second was producer Sara Parrott riding her own beloved Starlight (Queenie), who clocked up her best result to date. The 12-year-old mare is no stranger to the limelight, having previously stood in the ribbons at both RIHS and HOYS, and narrowly missing out on a spin in the International Arena in third in 2021. This season, Sara and Queenie claimed their HOYS ticket with a win at the Royal Highland on their season debut, and scored a further great win at the Great Yorkshire Show where they have previously stood champion. Another to do the double was the winner of the native and traditional type pony class. This was Pippa Kirby’s homebred Monivea Black Magic (Merlin), ridden by Pippa. He is by Boston out of Chantilly Lace IV, making him a full brother to the second placed combination, Sarah Harrison riding her own homebred Sarison Starman. He is named, however, after the Kirby family’s first coloured pony, Monivea Magic Rainbow in the hope that the name would bring him luck. “Both have now won blues and red at RIHS and HOYS,” said Pippa, “the legacy could not have been more fitting and to ride him in the ring has been an honour.” The six-year-old has been beautifully produced by Lucy Glover and this season his results
Monivea Black Magic ridden by Pippa Kirby
speak for themselves with championships including at Rutland County and the Scottish Horse Show, and further wins on home turf at the Great Yorkshire, and the RIHS and HOYS. He’s also qualified for the new championships at the LIHS, but Pippa will now be handing over the reins to her daughters Indie and Izzy. “It’s going to be even more special watching my daughters
on him in future years and I’m sure Merlin will look after them as he has done me,” said Pippa. The family had an extra special HOYS, also watching their homebred youngster Monivea Mozart compete in the Price Family Supreme In Hand Championship with his producer Jerome Harforth.
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46 | Showing World | December Issue 2023 | info@showingworldonline.co.uk
From Bridesmaids to Bride As the week drew to a close, fans of the mountain and moorland breeds were replaced with fans of the Arabian, the Miniatures and the heavy horse breeds. 2022 runners-up Jade Hateley and her own Cipriana gave a sparkling performance to clinch the Ridden Purebred Arab of the Year title.
finished third here before and he was reserve last year, so I’m ecstatic to finally win it. It was incredible; he’s been so great.” Reserve champion was Kerry Bates’ Rafeekah ridden by Kimberley Bates. The 10-year-old is by Designed out of Kaamelia and has been a super consistent campaigner for the Bates’. He has won HOYS twice, and also topped the RIHS championship in 2021.
Out of FS Cinderella by Mascot Des Alps, Cipriana is half-brother to the third-placed CBeebies, who The Finest Design of All is out of the same dam and whom The miniature horses graced the Jade sold earlier this year. Top Spec Arena on the show’s final Cipriana and Jade have had a day, with 17 entered for judging super season. Jade rode the and saw another 2022 bridesmaid 11-year-old to win her second graduate to the top spot. This was Royal Windsor win on the trot Hannah Bradley and her own Ujenik on his season debut and his first Extasys Fine Design, a 12-yeartime at the show. old stallion by Little Kings Double Extasys out of Mardi Gras Winning Whilst the Hateleys breed Arabs Colours. Hannah has won the class under the Round Oak prefix, Jade three times, twice with a Ujenikworks full-time for an equine bred exhibit, and the Ujenik Stud pharmaceutical company and fits has bred four HOYS Champions in her horses around work. She since the class’ inception in 2000. trains with Adam Wimbourne, who has no hesitation in declaring Hannah purchased him as a “there’s no one deserves it more. 10-year-old. She explained: “I knew She works so hard.” him well, so there was no question when he came up for sale that I Jade said: “This is the result would have him.” I’ve wanted for both of us. He’s Cipriana ridden by Jade Hateley Ujenik Extasys Fine Design shown by Hannah Bradley with judge Julia Ryde Rogers
Charity Black’s mare Pithill Paddocks One True Love, a fiveyear-old mare by Navajos Black Magic out of SHM All Mines Hidden Treasure, stood reserve. Big Al Lands Big Win The heavy horses provided onlookers with a spectacle in the Andrews Bowen International Arena. Producer Will Morton entered the Ridden Heavy Horse of the Year class for the first time, and duly took the title with an emotional Gemma McClorey and Jo Monaghan’s Shire gelding Cotebrook Sgurr Alasdair (Big Al). It was a case of third-time lucky for Big Al at HOYS. The eight-year-old qualified for the first time in 2021 but was unable to compete in his
and last year he lifted the supreme ridden championship title ahead of six other champions and the World Clydesdale Show, and he also won the dressage under Katie Common.
This was Richard Bedford’s Batley Pepper Gray who trounced 16 others forwards in hand. The three-year-old filly is sired by Toc Hill Sir George and is out of Batley Alison Grey.
The Driven Heavy Horse of the Year Championship treated heavy horse fans to a new class at HOYS, with 11 horses forwards driving a twowheeled show cart including Shires, Percherons and Clydesdales.
Claiming the title of Shire Horse of the Year was Batley Pepper Gray, a three-year-old black filly by Toc Hill Sir George out of Batley Alison Gray, which has been a big winner this show season. It is owned by Richard Bedford and was handled by Robert Bedford.
Wendy Toomer Harlow drove her Clydesdale Walton Bomber to victory. The 14-year-old by Caeberllan Buskot out of Walton Lees Laura qualified at Perth Show. Ailsa Noble’s Clydesdale Doura Lizzy stood reserve having qualified at Royal Norfolk Show. It was an extremely successful day for the Doura stud, having also bred third placed ridden heavy horse Doura Oakley. It was the National Shire Horse Show’s representative that also took the Shire of the Year championship.
Cotebrook Sgurr Alasdair ridden by Will Morton Walton Bomber driven by Wendy Toomer Harlow
first year after coming down with a virus just a few days before the show. Gemma rode him to finish sixth last year, but handed the reins to Will at the beginning of the year while she concentrated on another youngster coming up behind him. The pair looked impressive to take the first HOYS qualifier of the year at the National Shire Show in April. Big Al was bred by Alistair King of the Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre. He is by Moorfield Edward out of Cotebrook Loch Carron, and interestinly, appeared on ITV’s Amazing Animal Births. Gemma purchased him as a threeyear-old. “I’m so grateful for this horse and Will – he’s taken us on an amazing journey. He’s my whole world.” Fans will have later spotted images of Al enjoying a first day hunting since his victory. Brian Bisset’s Clydesdale, Stobilee Zac, stood Reserve ridden by Lucy May Stewart. 11-year-old Zac is usually steered by Isla Miller on behalf of her dad, Brian Bisset, but Isla qualified two for the final, and rode the less experienced HA Durran Harry to sixth place instead of Zac who is no stranger to the spotlight. He is a former runner-up at HOYS,
Batley Pepper Gray shown by Robert Bedford
The five-year-old stallion, Herkules Catching Fire, a son of Moorland Ted out of West Winds Cari Ann, owned by Christer Paulsson, from Sweden, and shown by Paul Bedford, took the reserve championship.
Two talented young male riders clinched the working hunter pony (WHP) titles at this year’s Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) - having both qualified at the TSR amateur show in the summer. In plaited WHP ranks it was Cornwall-based Samuel Laity who took the top spot in the National Pony Society/Mole Valley Farmers 133cm division riding the Donnor family’s Barney IX. Having had two poles in the final last year and issues with Barney standing still here, Sam knew he had a challenge on his hands for his return (and final) ride on 17-year-old Barney. “It all went a bit pear shaped last year so we knew we had to sort it out and get it right,” said Sam’s mother Marie. “He’s such a good pony and too good not to persist with. It was a case of trial and error.” The duo not only won their class, but headed to the international arena for the championship which they went on to win. “I think we got it right and what a way to go out – Barney is an absolute legend.” Sam, 14, will now move on to a 143cm novice pony with a couple of other rides for eventing and riding club. “Sam likes a challenge and bringing the younger ones on,” added Marie. There were few clears over the four working hunter pony classes, with only two clears being jumped in the 133cm class. “It was a very testing course,” said Sam. “But I asked Barney the questions and he did it. There aren’t many ponies like him. He’s one in a million.”
Barney IX ridden by Samuel Laity
Ruby Ward, champion here in 2018 riding Noble Peppermint, finished reserve behind Barney aboard Kelly Ward’s nine-year-old gelding Woodfield Hazy. “I’m so proud of him,” said Ruby, of the 153cm eight-year-old Connemara, who was making his second appearance at HOYS. This was Ruby’s third win at HOYS having also won the M&M 122cm final on Blackhill Imogen in 2018. “My mum (Kelly) found him in Goresbridge Sales a few years ago and he went to a girl on the yard, but then we bought him back,” said Ruby, who won the 2022 153cm Desert Orchid final and finished fourth at RIHS in July.
seven-year-old Nae Limits, this was the combination’s second visit having had two poles down in 2022. “He was only a baby last year and hadn’t done very much,” said Leyla, of Solihull, who was very pleased with her best result to date. “He’s like a big bear at home but perks up when he goes in the ring,” said Leyla, 20, who trains with working hunter specialist Katy Green. “My mum does all the grooming and prepares him for shows so I’m extremely grateful to her. We’re also showjumping up to Foxhunter level now,” said Leyla, who works in her father’s restaurant.
Leyla Wheelwright made her first placing here a red one after taking the intermediate WHP title. Riding her family’s
The 143cm section went to Allandy Gold Spark and Gracie Aungier. Despite being in his veteran years, the 20-year-old
Woodfield Hazy and Ruby Ward
Nae Limits ridden by Leila Wheelwright
produced a lovely clear round to head the class. “He feels like a six-year-old and has never jumped so well,” said Gracie, who finished second here last year and won Royal Windsor earlier in the season. “I was really nervous going in today, but he was amazing,” added Gracie, who also showjumps the skewbald gelding. Gold Spark adds his HOYS win to his tally having also won RIHS and the Gold Cup at Burghley Horse Trials. The second placed exhibits were also eligible for judging in the championship, and the young riders on board didn’t miss the opportunity for a spin around the International Arena. They were second placed intermediate combination Rascality and Chymme Reynolds, 153cm runners up Claudia Newman riding Annaghbay Storm, 143cm combination Star Smokey and Florence Duncalf who also occupied the same spot and reserve champion at the RIHS this summer, and finally, Settvalley The Titan ridden by Ollie Rowlands who were the only pair besides the winners to produce a clear in that class. Ollie had already had a dream-like spin in the International Arena 24 hours previously. 13-year-old Ollie won the Thor Atkinson Steel Fabrications Ltd M&M WHP championship. Coming from the smallest class – the 122cm division – Ollie rode Delami Bravado to win the class. The combination was making their second appearance in the final having qualified in 2022, they rolled a pole in their jump round, but finished fourth. This year, they returned more determined after qualifying at the TSR amateur show at Stoneleigh. “Our trip to Stoneleigh started with having to be rescued from the side of the road and we arrived at the ring just in time for them to go in,” explained Fiona. “What started off as a stressful day ended up being the most amazing one with them winning and booking their return ticket to HOYS.” They followed this up with another win in the qualifier at Denbigh & Flintshire. Benny, who is by Dukeshill Dotcom out of Brynrodyn Blodwen, was started by Hannah Turnock who contended him lightly on the flat before Ollie’s mother
Allandy Gold Spark ridden by Gracie Auinger
Fiona bought him during lockdown. “I was a key worker and I needed something to keep the children occupied when they were off school,” said Fiona. So, we bought Benny as a project pony. Ollie taught him to jump, and he’s trained him up the levels himself. We started at lower level and then stepped up to affiliated shows in 2021.” The pair qualified for this year’s RIHS final at NPS Area 13 at Onley and they went on to win at NPS spring festival and Royal Windsor. Back in 2021, the pair won at the STARS championships. “Benny is the coolest pony,” said Fiona, of the pony who was bred by the Waller Family. “He’s the cheekiest, happiest little chappy who loves life. He likes a big occasion, and he adores jumping. We’re completely home-produced, though I can’t take any credit for it - Ollie has made this pony. “Winning at HOYS is something that we never thought would happen to us,” added Fiona, who noted Ollie and Benny were also announced as the winners of the TSR Amateur Premier League for 2023. Delami Brovado ridden by Ollie Rowalnds
Gwerniago Gethin ridden by Ashley Bird
“It really has been a season we could only ever have dreamt of and none of us can believe what Ollie and his little project pony have achieved, they really are a dream partnership and their achievements this year have been beyond our wildest dreams.” Gwerniago Gethin, a 14-year-old Welsh section D, won the 143cm field and took reserve spot with his owner Ashley Bird. “I don’t think I’ll get another like him again,” said Ashley, who also finished reserve WHP champion at RIHS in July. “Dreams do come true, and this happened with my best friend. He felt amazing, went amazing and I can’t tell you at 14 years of age how brilliant this pony is,” said Ashley. Kirsty Aird and the Welsh section C Llanidan Bonheddwr (Henry) headed the 133cm section. Owned by Caroline Casey, the 11-year-old chestnut by Parvadene Reload qualified at North of England Spring show. Prior to Kirsty producing him at this level, Henry was based in Orkney with Liam Mackenzie, who competed him as a WHP and Pony Club activities. “This year I was unsure about how HOYS was going to go as I’ve brought a bunch of novices,” said Kirsty, who has won HOYS several times over fences, including in 2018 and 2022 with Connemara Woodbank Smokey Sam. “To ride, Henry is brilliant fun,” Kirsty added. “He’s so easy but he’s got some jump in him. You can really trust his jumping ability. Today was the first time he’s seen so many people, but he took it all in and he coped very well.” Commenting on the David Cole-built course, Kirsty said: “It was very poley so you needed something careful. The watertray at the end was sneaky, too.” Making their debut here was 10-year-old Millie Mortimer and her Welsh section A Templedruid Carob – a former driving pony – who won the junior 122cm WHP final. The 13-year-old gelding, owned by Millie’s mother Biana, had previously been used as a carriage driving pony before joining the family three years ago. “He’s totally bombproof, probably from his time as a driver,” said Bianca. ‘I knew he’d jump the course, but neither of them had ever competed in this type of atmosphere,” said Bianca of the pair who booked their place after winning the class at Denbigh and Flint.
solely to see him. “He’s a people’s pony - loved by most and unquestionably loved by us. I can’t thank King’s fans enough for constant support. Hearing you around the ring jumping every jump with us is a feeling you can’t describe.” Also forwards in the mountain and moorland working hunter pony championship were the Simons family’s second placed junior working hunter pony Haverford Fauntleroy ridden by Tabitha Curtis, 122cm 2022 winner Moonpenny Delphinus under Debbie BarkerRuniewicz, winning open section B Rushhill Diplomat and Sarah Parker, who were second in the 133cm class, the runners up in the 143cm class being Dunguaire Fionn Mccool under Georgia Love, and finally, the bridesmaids in the exceeding class, Derradda Rummy under Ellis Simister. Dycott Welsh King ridden by Ross Keys
“Millie has listened to every bit of advice and took everything on board all season,” said trainer Joanne Shaw. “A true hard working little jockey who truly deserves every ounce of success. I couldn’t feel any prouder.” Anna Chaplin’s Dycott Welsh King headed the exceeding 143cm final with Ross Keys. The Welsh section D qualified at Three Counties in June. “This pony owes me absolutely nothing and I owe him the world,” said Anna. “He has taken me through tough times and he’s truly my best friend. He absolutely loves his job and thinks the crowd is there
Llanidan Bonheddwr ridden by Kirsty Aird
Templedruid Carob ridden by Millie Mortimer
Amateurs rule the SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse HOYS Championship 2023 Reality Bites ridden by Laura Tylor with SEIB’s Nicolina Mackenzie and Jenny Viner
By Jenny Viner
Amateur rider, Laura Tylor took top spot in the 2023 SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse championship with Reality Bites (Reg). Three of the placed horses in the final were produced and ridden by amateur riders in the 2023 running of this series set up by SEIB Insurance Brokers to help give thoroughbreds a second career after retiring from the racecourse. The final was judged by Terry Pendry LVO, BEM and Sara Leatherbarrow. The late HM The Queen’s former Stud groom, Terry Pendry said: “The winning horse was simply beautiful, he was wellhandled and had a wonderful loose walk. He was straight, correct and turned out immaculately. The ride judge rode him beautifully. “I rode myself as an apprentice on the Scottish circuit back in the mid-60’s for two and a half years, and since then have thoroughly enjoyed the remedial side with Her-Majesty’s ex-racehorses – particularly Barbers Shop and First Receiver with Katie Jerram-Hunnable. It gives me a great buzz to help give the racehorses a new career, the only downfall is that now they are so immaculately turned out for the show ring, their trainers are realizing they can get a bit more money for them when they finish racing!”
at the Arena UK qualifier. As an amateur rider, Laura was also eligible to enter the SEIB Search for a Star qualifying class on the day at Arena UK. Reg went beautifully in this class to and the pair also earned a Search for a Star HOYS ticket in the Riding Horse Hack final. The pair duly took second place in the HOYS Search for a Star Riding Horse final too, rounding off a very successful few days! A horse on his third visit to HOYS in this championship, Wonga Swinger, owned and ridden by Tori Thomas took runnerup spot for the second year running. This 13-year-old bay gelding by Lucky Story was in training with Tori’s husband, former gold cup winning jockey, Sam Thomas where he won and was placed over fences. The pair took fifth place in the 2022 final. Tori said: ‘Wonga Swinger never really enjoyed his racing although he was a great jumper’.
Wonga Swinger ridden by Tori Thomas
A thrilled Laura Tylor said of her win: “It’s the sort of thing you dream about, I am simply blown away by this win! Reg is the yard pet at home, he is the nicest person. He really likes his work, we have taken to showing as it is what he enjoys doing.” Reg’s previous owner, former point-topoint trainer, Cynnie Crawford was at HOYS watching Reg and Laura take on the thirteen other competitors in the championship. Cynnie said: “We had Reg for a few years, he was trained by Clare Hart. When he was looking for a new home, Laura came along and she was the right person for him, I’m delighted Reg has a home for life.” Laura and Reg qualified for the SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse championship
52 | Showing World | December Issue 2023 | info@showingworldonline.co.uk
Mahomes ridden by Hannah Horton
Hazel Hill ridden by Jane Williams First Fandango ridden by Lizzie Harris
Hannah Horton and five-year-old Mahomes, owned by his breeders, Lord and Lady Lloyd-Webber took third place. Mahomes was in training with John Gosden, for whom he ran three times. Hannah said: “Mahomes loves being a show horse, he is a poser and has really found his niche!” Hazel Hill and former champion amateur jockey, Jane Williams took fourth place. Jane said: “We bought him as a five-yearold from a point-to-point yard in Ireland and he is now fifteen. He has won so many pointto-points and even won the Foxhunters at Cheltenham in 2021. He now leads ponies and goes hunting!” This placing was on the back of winning the title of Supreme Horse at the recent Aintree Ex-Racehorse showing Championships. The ultra-consistent First Fandango took fifth place with Lizzie Harris, for his owner, Hannah Chisham. Imperial Ruby took sixth for his owner Sar Cassidy-Hill. He was ridden by Jessica Smith while his regular rider, Sarah Llewellyn piloted her other horse, Deep Challenger in
the class. Diana Taylor’s Festive Fare ridden by Katie-Jo Nixon took seventh and Qulinton and Thea Geake took eighth place. In ninth was amateur ridden and produced horse, Grey Life, owned by Louise Todd and ridden by Kirsten Mellor. SEIB Marketing Manager Nicolina Mackenzie said: “We have had a brilliant series of Racehorse to Riding Horse this year. Having introduced the amateur only qualifier at Stoneleigh, allowing a further two horses to come forward to HOYS, it is wonderful to see amateur riders do so well at HOYS. Its been several years since an amateur ridden and produced horse won and a great incentive for people to get out there and give this class a go. Many thanks to HOYS for allowing us the two extra horses in the championship. We were also delighted to see our 2021 winners Minella Rebellion and Katie Dashwood win and go champion in the Riding Horses here at HOYS. This just goes to show how ex-racehorses are truly making their mark at the very top end of showing.”
Imperial Ruby ridden by Jessica Smith
Festive Fare ridden by Katie-Jo Nixon Qulinton ridden by Thea Geake
Grey Life ridden by Kirsten Mellor info@showingworldonline.co.uk | December Issue 2023 | Showing World | 53
Showing for everyone
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Whitefield Prince Valiant and Kate Hawes
From the Highlands to HOYS To celebrate their centenary, the Highland Pony Society showcased some of their best representations of the Highland pony during the final evening performance at HOYS. This special display highlighted the versatility of the breed and its different uses, including riding and driving as well as the more traditional sporting, forestry and farm work. As one of the two native ponies of the Scottish Highlands, the Highland pony has, over time evolved to have an essential strength, substance
and hardiness, combined with a kind nature and even temperament. As well as being one of the largest of the UK’s native breeds, the Highland pony can also boast that its breed society is one of the largest organisations for native breeds with approximately 1700 members hailing from across the UK, Europe and even as far as New Zealand and Australia. As well as a proactive and loyal membership base, the society was also fortunate to have the late Her Majesty The Queen as its patron and a
Glenmuir Mountain Ash and Eleanor Lyttle
a passionate breeder under the Balmoral prefix. The display was enjoyed by Highland pony devotees and those new to the breed alike. As well as the ponies and their humans taking part in the display itself, credit must also be given to
overall coordinator Debbie Spears, choreographer Erik Mackechnie-Guire, music coordinator Chrissy Pritchard, piper Finland Greenlees, tenor drummer Mia Goodge, snare drummer Bertie MacFarlane, and to Sylvia Ormiston MVO for her introduction.
Highland Chief of Talisker and Amber Thorpe
Holmedown Winconsin and Jess Talbot
Kincardine Nightingael with Daniel Maggs, Dunstaffanage Maw Broon with Russell Mackechnie-Guire, and Dunstaffanage the Loon Broon with Erik Mckechnie-Guire
Staffin Peigi of Castle Green and Christine Bassett Kirtonian Loch Birnie and Liz Twite Lochlands Gypsy Baron and Tracey Ashworth
Redliffe Millicent and Richard Hardy
Rare British Breeds Take Centre Stage Search for a Star at Your Horse Live | Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire | 10th-11th of November Report by Jenny Viner and Beth Simons | Photos by SMR Photography British rare breeds dominated in the Supreme SEIB Insurance Brokers Search for a Star Your Horse Live Championship on the 11th November in the main SEIB Arena at Your Horse Live at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire. A Suffolk Punch mare took the Supreme title and a Dales the reserve. Champions of all shapes and sizes were crowned in the Search for a Star finals the previous day in the SEIB Arena at Your Horse Live before the 10 section winners came forward for the Saturday lunchtime Supreme Championship. Suffolk Punch mare, four-yearold, Holbeache Scarlet won the first ever in-hand Search for a Star Heavy Horse final on the Friday and then took the in-hand and then went overall Supreme Champion on the Saturday. Holbeache Scarlet is owned by Andrea Hoskins and was handled by Stud Manager, Brad Auker. This is the first year the in-hand heavy horse Search for a Star championship has run. The Supreme championship was judged by Katie Jerram-Hunnable, Chris Hunnable, Matthew Lawrence and Beth Simons. The Suffolk Punch breed is registered on the Priority list of the Rare Breeds Survival Trust, making them critically endangered. There are only 80 Suffolk Punch
breeding mares in the UK and there were just 23 foals on the ground in 2023. Scarlet is one of a band of precious broodmares owned by Andrea, and she is in foal to Newpole Maurice. With the breed so rare, Andrea is hoping for a filly to join the filly foal and yearling they have at home, but is primarily concerned with “a safe delivery” for Scarlet and her foal. This is not Scarlet’s first foray into the showring, and she has also won at the Royal Norfolk Show and was supreme champion at Suffolk County. Heavy horse finals judge on the Friday, Steve Ledsham said: “It is the breed standard that we are looking to find in a mixed class. The Suffolk Punch, Holbeache Scarlet met the breed standard to perfection.” The Search for a Star In-Hand heavy horse championship class also featured the best shod competition, and a prize awarded to the highest placed horse owned and exhibited by a British Horse Society member. Holbeache Scarlet won both of these prizes as well and was presented with her prizes on the Friday by British Horse Society Chief Executive Officer, James Hick.
and working horses but then was sidetracked into thoroughbreds for several years before now working as the stud manager for Andrea. This is all new to me, I’ve been working as stud manager for Andrea for a year now. It’s the first job I’ve had where I’m completely in charge and I am delighted we have managed to do this for Andrea.” Andrea was naturally thrilled, and it became clear when speaking to her that she has a real love of the breed. “They are really very special,” she said. When asked what made them so special, Andrea answered without hesitation: “It’s rarity. I remember as a child seeing them; I remember being picked up when
the heavy horse. “He supported the breed like mad, so it means such a lot as it would have meant the world to him as well.” No doubt he will have been watching and smiling. In reserve position was sixyear-old Dales gelding Nipna Outrageous (Ray) and his owner and rider, Nicola Clarey. This pair won the Search for a Star ridden mountain and moorland championship on the Friday before coming forward for the supreme on Saturday. Ray was the only Dales pony qualified across the in hand and ridden mountain and moorland sections. He was purchased by Nicola from breeders Julie and Anna Pennell and the Pennel family
Nipna Outragerous ridden by Nicola Clarey
Brad Auker said: “It means an awful lot to me to win here today. I was always interested in heavy
Holbeache Scarlet shown by Brad Auker with SEIB’s Nicolina Mackenzie, Beth Simons, Mathew Lawrence, Katie Jerram Hunnable and Chris Hunnable
I was eight or nine years old and being put on the front of the huntsman’s horse, which was a Suffolk and it stayed with me and I always wanted one. My mother was an artist and they are a superb shape. I love the squareness, the power and the personality of them; they are just magnificent horses.” The win was a particularly poignant one for Andrea, having sadly lost her husband Lawrence earlier this year. Andrea explained that he was a passionate advocate of
as a weanling. He is sired by Castle Hill Black Jack and is out of Nipna Damask Rose, who stood second at HOYS under Anna. Rosie’s first foal and Ray’s maternal half brother is the uber successful young stallion Nipna Midnight Rambler. Nicola and Ray very nearly didn’t make the final as Nicola fell and hurt her knee resulting in a trip to A&E with less than a week to go. She thankfully gave riding a go with just 48 hours to go and found it easier than walking, so persevered and what a good job she did! Nicola said: “He
just felt amazing in the Supreme Championship today. He loves the atmosphere and will now have a rest until the new year. He has had a busy time in his first season showing and took third at his first Search for a Star qualifier back in April before qualifying at Stoneleigh Park in the summer. He’s improving all the time, and we will go for HOYS and Royal International qualifiers next year.” Longstanding Search for a Star judges Katie Jerram Hunnable and Chris Hunnable said: “Both champion and reserve stood out today. The Suffolk Punch was lovely and so well behaved. She is in foal – due at the end of May which will be a fantastic addition to the collection of these rare breeds. I really liked her foreleg with her short pastern and cannon bone. It was a lovely win. The Dales was true to type and we really liked him.” Competitors through to the Search for a Star Your Horse Live finals on the Friday were lucky enough to go before judges, top show producers and Search for a Star stalwarts, Katie JerramHunnable and Chris Hunnable and Matthew Lawrence who all
Phoebe said: “My mum came third with Elodie in this final last year so our aim was to do better! And we did!” Phoebe followed up her in-hand win with a second place in the Pony Club Search for a Star First Ridden championship later in the morning. Phoebe’s mum, Sam Crutchlow said: “They’ve done so well, Phoebe has been practicing hard and now Elodie will have a holiday. They’ve also won the Pony Club regional dressage championships and several young handler classes this season.” Next up was the Search for a Star in-hand plaited horse and hogged show cob presentation. The win went to ex-racehorse, Betheholyman and his owner and handler, Mali Jones from Swansea. Mali said: “Today has been the best experience for us. Before Search for a Star we’d never done in-hand showing and it’s amazing to have the championship experience. It was all so well organised today which was great as I was very nervous.” Mali and Betheholyman have also competed in several SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse qualifiers over the last few years. Mali added: “Betheholyman has the best manners, I wasn’t
to elementary level in dressage. Heidi said: “She is looking really well and was so settled today, we just started showing last year. I’ve got 6 plates and screws in my pelvis so I’m suited to in-hand classes! Romany is out of an Irish Sports Horse mare who did everything, she bred two lovely foals, and sadly her other foal died which makes Romany really special.” The in-hand mountain and moorland winner at Your Horse Live, Highland pony, Kirtonian Loch Birnie (Buzz) and his owner and rider, Liz Twite also took third place in the ridden mountain and moorland championship. Liz said: “Buzz has really made my dreams come true. We qualified for this just a few days after my mother died back in the spring. He is a nine-year-old and we also jump, compete side-saddle and have plenty of fun. I bought him as a foal, a good friend bred him and I’d never sell him. He’s been shown in-hand since a yearling and has been champion Highland at the Royal Cornwall Show five times! He loves showing himself off.” Liz is also a former Search for a Star Steward of the Year winner.
Foxwell Butterscotch shown by David Pepperdine with James Hick
Kirtonian Loch Birnie shown by Liz Twite with Nicolina Mackenzie and James Hick Rhos Elodie shown by Phoebe Crutchlow with Nicolina Mackenzie
gave detailed commentary as they judged. The first championship final of the Friday encompassed three of the six classes that make up the SEIB Search for a Star in-hand championships. Twelve horses and ponies came forward in total. The first winner to be announced was the in-hand plaited pony final which went to a delighted Phoebe Crutchlow and her mother’s riding pony, Rhos Elodie. Atherston Branch of the Pony Club member,
looking for an ex-racehorse when we got him. It has taken us five or six years to get to this point and we’ve also competed in elementary dressage and we plan to do some showjumping.” A hotly contested in-hand Search for a Star veteran championship went to Heidi Bull and her eighteen-year-old homebred mare, Romany (Play Time) whose powerful paces impressed. After breeding this dark bay mare, Heidi showed her successfully as a foal and then competed up
Betheholyman and Mali Jones with Nicolina Mackenzie
A silver dapple traditional cob won the Search for a Star in-hand Your Horse Live championship. Foxwell Butterscotch (Dewey) and his handler David Pepperdine were delighted! Dewey is owned by David’s wife, Louise. The Pepperdines bought Dewey from an allotment on a Welsh Mountain, as a foal, during lockdown. He is now four years old. Louise said: “We are thrilled with this, it is his first stay away show and we are really looking forward to doing more under
58 | Showing World | December Issue 2023 | info@showingworldonline.co.uk
Romany PlayTime shown by Heidi Bull with Nicolina Mackenzie
saddle in the future. Dewi was broken in a year ago and does everything. We are so lucky to have him.” Next in the arena were the Pony Club Search for a Star classes. These classes are in their second year and a total of sixteen ponies qualified for the championship.
Thistledown Edison ridden by Ianna Grant and led by Mary-Jo Grant with Nicolina Mackenzie and the Pony Club’s Marcus Capel
Ross-Shire Pony Club member Ianna Grant won the Search for a Star Lead-Rein Pony Club Championship with her mother Mary-Jo Grant’s Welsh Section A pony, Thistledown Edison. It was a tough journey down to Stoneleigh from north of Inverness for the Grant family, including a breakdown on the way. Mary-Jo said: “It took us 14 hours and was 480 miles down! It was definitely worth it though! Edison does everything, side-saddle, Pony Club, camp and shows. He was Supreme of Show at our Ross-shire Pony Club show.” Ianna is a pupil at Avoch Primary School near Inverness. The first ridden Search for a Star Pony Club championship went to Rufford Pony Club member, Millie Croft with 13-year-old, Welsh Section B, Desarbre Sparrow Hawk (Romeo) owned by Lisa Croft. Lisa said: “They do their best and have been practising hard! We’ve owned Romeo since February this year and he and Millie are having a go at everything together, they’ve been showing and won the Pony Club regional dressage championships. They are in the Rufford Pony Club and Millie goes to Ranby House School in Retford. We did Search for a Star on the lead rein last year and are delighted to be back and to have done so well in the first ridden class this year.”
Desabre Sparrow Hawk ridden by Millie Croft with Marcus Capel and Nicolina Mackenzie
In the open Pony Club Search for a Star championship, Cotswold Vale member, Rose Chugg-Martin and Tregaire Tiger Lily took top spot. Rose said: “She was so well behaved today and is simply a legend! I was pleased with how our show went; we have been doing lots of dressage which has definitely helped! Rose’s mum, Eloise Chugg-Martin said: “Lily is just brilliant, we bought her three-years-ago. She came from St Just in Roseland in Cornwall, when we went to try her, it was the windiest day and Rose took her straight out on the beach and she was foot-perfect.” Nine top horses and ponies came forward to contest the Search for a Star Open Veteran final at Your Horse Live. This finale has a valuable £500 first prize to the winner this year. Each finalist gave a unique individual show with plenty of flamboyance and the four judges held up score cards – similar to Strictly – and gave a mark out of 10 for the shows before the winners were announced. The title of Open Search for a Star Veteran championship went to Saffron XII owned and ridden by Sarah Grindle from Gloucestershire. This pair compete at advanced-medium level dressage and are in their first year showing. Sarah said: “She is 20 now and has had the same home since she was
a yearling. In addition to her dressage she’s also competed at pre-novice level eventing. We’ve been everywhere this season, including Royal Winsdor and, the Veteran Horse Society Championships. It’s a brilliant end to the season! Saffron is on loan from a friend, we both had children at the same time and so decided to share her. It’s worked out really well and has been the arrangement for the last nine years.”
Tregaire Tiget Lily ridden by Rose Chugg-Martin with Marcus Capel
Matthew Lawrence for their final. As each class is underway, the judges voice their thoughts over a microphone. This has proved very popular with the audience. Your Horse Live Event Director, Emma Bedford said: “We were thrilled to welcome the Search for a Star in-hand heavy horses to Your Horse Live this year. The standard of horses and ponies was so high and its always a pleasure to have the championships here.”
Founder of Search for a Star, SEIB’s Marketing Manager, Nicolina MacKenzie said: “You simply couldn’t beat the atmosphere at the Search for a Star Your Horse Live championship this year. We are thrilled with how the new Search for a Star in-hand heavy horse championship has gone and delighted that we had two British native rarebreeds taking the supreme and reserve titles.” Competitors at the Search for a Star Your Horse Live championships are lucky to go under top producers, Katie Jerram-Hunnable and Chris Hunnable and
Saffron XI ridden by Sarah Grindle
info@showingworldonline.co.uk | December Issue 2023 | Showing World | 59
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