Showing World September/October 2023 (176)

Showing World

Issue 176 - September/October 2023

Issue 176 September/October 2023 www.showingworldonline.co.uk

Reports from the Dublin Horse Show, Pembrokeshire County Show, CHAPS, NPS, BSPS and BSHA championships and many more!

Meet the Prices - who’s qualified?

At home with Grace Maxwell Murphy

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Dear Reader, The later society championships, namely the BSPS and BSHA Championships saw old and new faces come to the fore, with many having a run out before HOYS, and frankly, those in the placings looked amazing! I am loving seeing the photos and videos popping up on my social media feeds. I am so excited to see how the finals play out at HOYS. Will the same horses and ponies take titles? Or were the champions at their haynets at home?

A Note From Our Editor

I found a photo last week of my sister Maggie’s pony, Rory, leaving the ring after jumping round the open 122cm mountain and moorland working hunter pony track at HOYS 2022. Really, he wasn’t ready to qualify but who turns down a ticket? Maggie and Rory had two poles but our faces in the photo tell a different story. We look so so proud of our pony, especially as he’s usually amongst the smallest in the class but attacked the ‘meatier-than-thequalifiers’ fences with gusto! The thing is, we were there, he wasn’t fazed and they got round - together! There were many, many combinations who would have loved the opportunity to qualify, let alone get round unscathed! I’ll be trying to hold onto that memory as I enter the ring in a few weeks! No matter what the outcome, we’re lucky to be there, as testified by the TSR Premier Amateur League winners and Wildcard receipients!

The smiles, the delighted squeals and the happy tears from the receipients of the tickets have been nothing short of heartwarming. I’ve even seen a few clips that have left me choked. It’s truly a wonderful thing hearing reactions as dreams come true. Please make yourselves known to us at HOYS as we would love to know how you get on.

If you are off to HOYS for the first time, be that through TSR or not, keep an eye out on their Facebook account for lots of helpful tips.

By the time it comes to the next issue, HOYS will be all over. If you are lucky enough to be entering the Arena of Dreams, good luck!

In the meantime, if you do get 10 minutes, I have some key steps you NEED to take: 1. Open your phone, find December the second and keep it free for our SEIB British Showing World Awards.

2. Round up your friends.

3. Head to our website and submit your nominations.

4. Book your tickets!

Don’t forget to stop with us at HOYS! Beth

Cover Star! Beech Hall Ryan, ridden by Izzy Hartswood-Collier (Equinational) info@showingworldonline.co.uk | September/October Issue 2023 | Showing World | 3

Contents 06

BSHA Championships

09

CHAPS (UK) Chapmionships

13

RoR Championships

20

Dublin Horse Show

25

Juniors Jump To It

28

The Price is Right

32

Pembrokeshire County Show

38

NPS’ The Great British In Hand Show

44

Royal Welsh Show

6 16

49

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 | September/October Issue 2023 | info@showingworldonline.co.uk

Tickets on sale now!

Horse of the Year Show 4th - 8th OCTOBER 2023 W W W. H OY S .C O. U K

British RAISING THE BAR

Lacey’s Winning Legacy

Howetown Holly’s Legacy ridden by Elliee Stunt

“We’re all on such a high from BSHA; it was a show where dreams came true for us all. It was made even more special as it was the first show Peony has been to and my father, Mark, and husband Pete, who don’t really come to shows, Report by Beth Simons | Photos by Spidge Photography were there to see it. Elliee really has ridden and produced them both to perfection all season and has them going Charlotte Coppard and her daughter Rebekah Pring’s RIHS runner up incredibly. She really deserves this success, she works so Howetown Holly’s Legacy (Lacey) produced a stunning show to stand hard and leaves no stone unturned.” overall supreme of show having already taken the small hack and hack Jayne Ross and Rose Bailey’s Twinshock Warrior (Bernard) supremes under young producer Elliee Stunt. Lacy and Elliee pulled out the gave a stunning account of themselves in the overall hunter stops and produced a flamboyant show including flying and simple changes supreme to take the title just weeks after securing ridden and one-handed gallops to clinch the final title. Bred by Susan Cunninghamsupreme at the SHB Hunter Championships. The Ricardo Wilson, Rebekah explained that Kilvington Scoundrel seven-year-old Lacey Z 11-year-old actually took the novice championships at was late to mature so kept out by Susan until she was four. In a bizarre twist the BSHA championships in 2018 before going on to win of fate, Rebekah and Charlotte first spotted Lacey in the field as a two-yearHOYS for the first time and stand reserve. Since then has old when the purchased Litton Cerise (CC) from Susan. “We fell in love with been a formidable opponent in the heavyweight open her then and I said I’d love to have her when she was older, little did I know classes. In 2019, he claimed the hunter championship and that I would. We brought back into work, but sadly she was too small for supreme horse accolade at HOYS. This season saw him win me. What’s funny is the next season Elliee purchased CC for her old client Windsor and RIHS for the third time having previously stood Martha Jobling Purser and she went on to win HOYS that year.” champion at both.

Lacey joined Elliee’s team early in 2022 having been purchased from Team Jinks. She quickly found her feet in just the handful of shows she attended, qualifying for the RIHS and finishing fourth with Twinshock Warrior ridden by Jayne Ross Rebekah at HOYS.

BSHA Championships Addington Manor Equestrian Centre, Bucks 7-9 September 2023

“Elliee has taken over the ride this season as I was pregnant and had my baby the week of RIHS,” explained Rebekah, “so Elliee will ride her at HOYS this year and I will ride her again next season. Lacey is a real show girl; she steps into the ring and will do anything you ask. Elliee taught her to do the flying changes moments before they went into the supreme. She was smiling every moment of the supreme; she loved it.”

Charlotte and Rebekah’s Tiger Attack four-year-old Littletons Tiger Lilly also enjoyed an excellent show winning her restricted hack class and the restricted championship. This season, Lilly has won at four of her five shows and has already claimed her first reserve supreme. Elliee will take her into some opens next season, and Rebekah will take on the ride in novices.

Little Kingdom ridden by Helen Newbold

“He is having such a fantastic season and to take two supreme championships on the bounce is really special,” said Rose, adding, “Bernard and Jayne are just the ultimate partnership and the supreme format really allows his versatility, manoeuvrability and gallop to shine through. He is such a special horse and my parents and I love watching him; the fact that he is such a lovely, kind “person” as well really is the icing on the cake.”

Royal Illusion ridden by Vicky Smith

Tiger Eye ridden by Libby Taylor Hopkins

Following Jayne in the supreme caused Helen Newbold to throw caution to the wind in her own show with Mark and Cassie Whitney’s HOYS heavyweight working hunter victor and section champion, Little Kingdom (Tom). The Rockrimmon Robusticus eight-year-old is out of a Cavalier Royale mare, and was purchased unseen by Mark and Cassie. Helen and Tom booked their HOYS ticket at the competitive Hickstead Derby Meeting. This is Tom’s first “proper season” making the win at the championships all the sweeter. “I was over the moon to win such a strong worker class, let alone go champion, and reserve supreme,” said an elated Helen.

Sarah Carey’s homebred Ecclesbourne Botany Bay (Matty) stood novice hack champion before going on to take the novice supreme in the capable hands of Jordan Cook. “It was all the more special as I had ridden his dam, Stanley Grange Eclipse to win the same championship in 2007,” said Helen. Six-year-old Matty is by the prolific stock-getter Kilvington Scoundrel. “He was shown as youngster with great success,” explained Sarah, describing Matty as an “easy going character who just wants to please, and loves attention.” Sarah produces Matty from home and this season, she has aimed him at the championships, taking wins in the novice ranks at North of England, BSPS Area 5, 4b, Rutland, Cheshire Premier and Cheshire County along the way. He also qualified at HOYS in the small hacks with win at Stoneleigh in August. Vicky Smith was delighted to hand the Suzy Hibbard memorial trophy to Jordan for the win as Jordan used to ride Paul Mortimer’s mare Royal Illusion (Gracie), now produced

by Vicky due to Jordan’s career change. During that time, Jordan grew to know Suzi, Paul’s right-hand woman well, the pair holding each other in high regard.

Not to be left out, Gracie also took her slice of the glory, winning three classes of three. The reigning Windsor riding horse champion won the Classic Supreme small riding horse and section reserve under Vicky then swapped jockey to win the HOYS intermediate hunter type and intermediate championship with Poppy Carter.

Poppy and Gracie also stood reserve young riders to on-form combination, Libby Taylor-Hopkins and Tiger Eye, owned by Libby’s mum, Amanda Picillo and produced by Martin Skelton. Earlier this season, 19-year-old Newcastle University student Libby and small hunter Tiger stood overall amateur hunter and amateur supreme at the RIHS. The 11-year-old was bought to support the transition into the horse classes and competes successfully as both a small hunter and intermediate show hunter, of which he is HOYS-bound in both.

Amanda explained that the BSHA National Championships saw Tiger “exceed all expectations”. He started his campaign by winning the young rider hunter class and section tricolour, before winning the amateur small hunter and amateur tricolour. “I couldn’t think of any other horse I would want to take me into my first supreme at BSHA,” said Libby, finishing first reserve. “A massive thank you goes to Martin for his hard work and dedication to these horses, and of course, Mum for supporting me.” info@showingworldonline.co.uk | September/October Issue 2023 | Showing World | 7

9th – 12th August 2023 | Report by Celeste Gall | Photos by Equinational

CHAPS (UK) Championships

Billie Jean ridden by Terri Gyett

Billie Jean causes a scene An eight-year-old mare in her first ridden season topped the HOYS championship with her owner-rider Terri Guyett. Traditional Billie Jean proved she had to moves to land her first HOYS ticket and take the section championship, having found her way back to Terri after she sold her as a three-year-old. “She was sold on to be a broodmare, and we always said we would love to buy her back for the ridden, so when the opportunity arose last November we jumped at the chance,” said Terri, who co-owns her with her partner Belcher Harrington.

Whilst Billie has only done a handful of shows this season, her results speak for themselves; she won two RIHS qualifiers before going on to stand second at RIHS and has also qualified for LIHS. “This means so much to us as a family as Billie will stay with us to become a broodmare with our stallion, Greateaves Giovanni – himself unbeaten in three years,” added Terri, who topped her class by nine marks and had the highest marks of all of the six HOYS qualifiers.

coloureds and the open ridden small breeds at RIHS. Here, they picked up several championships including the mini ridden pony of the year title, reserve junior supreme and the overall ridden reserve supreme.

“Rose was absolutely beaming from ear to ear when the crowd got behind them on the supreme go round and I was absolutely blown away with how well they did,” said Rose’s mum Tracey.

Taking the first reserve in the ridden supreme was Sophie Barker and her home-produced native Paintball Rachel May, who went through to the supreme with two championship titles under their belt having won both the amateur championship and the NCT intermediate rider of the year finals. Sophie, who works full time, is also studying part time at Harper Adams University to become a rural land surveyor and keeps Rachel at home and is regularly hacked out by her mum Helen. “They’ve had an amazing season, taking the amateur award and home produced award in the NCT small pony class at RIHS this season.

Rachel is such a lovely pony inside and out,” said Helen.

The supreme ridden championship went to Chris Patrick and Julie Nuttall’s 11-year-old native mare Brookdale Hot Property, who clinched the King of the Ring championship. Taking the reserve supreme ridden championship was the diminutive duo of Rose Cassapi, 10, and Blackertor Mustang (Ben). Rose picked out Ben as a foal just before her fifth birthday and the Brookdale Hot Property ridden by Chris Patrick pair have grown up together; the pair are members of the Atherstone Pony Club and in their first season together they qualified for both the ridden

Paintball Rachel May ridden by Sophie Barker

Burghwallis Vavavoom ridden by Mia Hiscock

Ashleas Total Lockdown shown by Lee Jones Wystone Keepsake shown by Jo Martin

Mia Hiscock claimed the supreme novice title on the exciting five-year-old NCT pony Burghwallis Vavavoom, owned by Hannah Gelormini. In his first season, the pair took supreme at CHAPS South East and have been placed in every HOYS qualifier this season. Reserve novice supreme went to Bronwyn Ward and the NCT novice horse winner Careymill Ted, who was an Irish find and recording their first ridden win. “It has been four years of hard work to get to where we are now and he came out on the last day of the show in the novice and performed beautifully in our show to win the class.

“He had his first evening performance the night before and came into our second evening performance full of confidence. We will be having a busy winter preparing for ride judges in the qualifiers next year,” said Bronwyn.

Taking home the flower sash for the in-hand supreme was Emma Water’s three-year-old Ashleas Total Lockdown, who was contesting only his second ever show and clinched the sports and performance championship on route took the overall supreme, led by Lee Jones. Making the long trip from Ayshire was Sammy Johnson’s traditional The Ace of Kings, who landed the reserve supreme in-hand championship, who also won the Native/Cob/Traditional small ridden final and ridden reserve championship.

Bombay Regal Heir ridden by Emma Rees

The overall youngstock supreme went to Jo Martin’s homebred yearling filly Wystone Keepsake, who won both the yearling final and the yearling of the year en route to the supreme. “I plan to keep her and do some more in-hand and then hopefully she will have a ridden career before becoming a broodmare for us in the future,” said Jo. The reserve supreme youngstock championship went to Dannie Williams, who made the trip from Devon with her yearling Millbry Summer Rose. By Lostock Candyman, Dannie purchased her direct from the Millbry Stud as a weanling and she took champion in the youngstock evaluations section here, as well as winning three finals and five reserve championships.

Emma Rees piloted her own and her husband Wayne’s six-yearold exquisite skewbald gelding Bombay Regal Hair to win the restricted ridden non-native and sports horse finals. Emma, who has been undergoing chemotherapy for two years, first fell in love with him after a friend sent her a picture of him during chemotherapy. “I ride him as much as I can but if its chemo week and there’s a show then my good friend Cameron Brady rides him,” explained Emma, who added: “I couldn’t do it without everyone behind the scenes who literally don’t let me lift a finger.” CHAPS was only their third show together, having already taken the ridden supreme at Royal Welsh.

info@showingworldonline.co.uk | September/October Issue 2023 | Showing World | 9

COLOURED CONNECTIONS: Horse of the Year Show is a celebration of showing excellence, and the Coloured Horse or Pony of the Year Championship has been an impressive spectacle since its introduction in 1998. Now in its 40th year, CHAPS UK has long sought to promote coloureds in a myriad way and has endorsed the HOYS final right from the beginning. This year, Burghwallis Stud and The White Crow will be returning as co-sponsors, and Appleton Grange Stud and The Eccles UK Foundries Ltd will also be co-sponsoring for the first time.

This year, the coloured horse and pony classes will be judged by Mathew Lawrence (conformation) and Polly Mallender (ride). If you wish to watch the final judging, make sure that you’re ringside at the Top Spec Arena on the show’s final day, Sunday the 8th of October to catch all the action. The championship will take its usual spot in the Andrews Bowen International Arena later in the afternoon.

Before we turn our attention to the recipient of the 2023 Coloured Horse or Pony of the Year title, here’s a reminder for you of some of last year’s victors and previous champions…

2022 Wot Perfection owned by Lindsay McCulloch (A, ridden by Richard Telford)

2013 Spiritus owned by Christina McHugh

2005 Electric Storm owned by Sali Mariani

2021 Lostock Up To Date owned by Sarah Harrison (B, ridden by Sarah Harrison)

2012 The Humdinger owned by Carol Bardo and Mandy Hughes (H, ridden by Jayne Ross)

2004 Springhill Bally Bay owned by Rebecca Bennett (J, ridden by Rebecca Bennett)

2019 Del Boy V owned by Michelle Cuerden (C, ridden by Vikki Smith)

2011 The Humdinger owned by Carol Bardo and Mandy Hughes (H)

2018 The Magpie owned by Clare Lupton (D, ridden by Adam Forster)

2010 The Humdinger owned by Carol Bardo and Mandy Hughes (H)

2017 Doorley’s Prince owned by Martin Wood (E, ridden by Simon Charlesworth)

2009 The Humdinger owned by Carol Bardo and Mandy Hughes (H)

2016 The Life Of Riley owned by Hayley Sankey (F, ridden by Vicky Smith)

2008 Red Andes owned by Elaine Plaice

2015 Our Cashel Blue owned by Caroline Tyrell (G, ridden by Alister Hood) 2014 Shear Impulse owned by Kim Colosso

2007 So Smart owned by Sarah Walker 2006 Brynteg Llywnay Daffodil owned by Keith Pritchard and Rita Maynard (I, ridden

by Jessica Pritchard)

2022 Winners

2003 Merrigan owned by Clare Merrigan (J, ridden by Simon Charleswoth) 2002 Mosstock Sarisson Lad owned by Chris Willett 2001 Merrigan owned by Clare Merrigan 2000 Mr Moses owned by Frank Slattery 1999 Mosstock Sarisson Lad owned by Chris Willett 1998 Lostock Huntsman owned by Caroline Hamilton (L, ridden by Zoe Zoe Bowden)

KBF Lucia ridden by Jayne Ross

2022 champion, Wot Perfection ridden by Richard Telford

Red Rock III ridden by Janay Atherden

A

Sarison Starman ridden by Sarah Harrison

E

K

C

D

D

J

H

I

B

G

L

F

Rich Man Poor Man ridden by Kirstine Douglas

Hazel Hill ridden by Jane Smith

Hazel Hill on High Jockey Club RoR National Championships, Aintree Equestrian Centre 23-26 of August, 2023 Photos by 1st Class Images

Minella Rebellion ridden by Katie Dashwood Carole’s Destroyer ridden by Maisie Bush

The Jockey Club RoR National Championships held annually at Aintree International Equestrian Centre once again provided Thoroughbred and former racehorse enthusiasts plenty of hot competition to feast on, with almost 300 horses taking part. The championships culminated with the judging of the The Tattersalls RoR Ridden Showing Supreme Champion.

Hazel Hill, ridden by Jane Williams was eventually awarded the Tattersalls RoR Ridden Showing Supreme Champion title.

He was purchased by the Williams family as a five-year-old and was trained

by Philip Rowley. During his racing career, the now fifteen-year-old won 19 races, including several with Jane in the saddle, and accumulated over £50,000. The pair won the Amateur final en route to the supreme.

The reserve overall title was awarded to the winners of the Open series final, Morean Hamilton’s Rich Man Poor Man ridden by producer Kirstine Douglas.

The 2022 supreme champion is having a superb season including standing champion RoR and champion hunter at the Royal Highland Show which was especially wonderful for his Scottish-based owner and producer. Interestingly, the reserve for the open title went to 2021 supreme champions, Minella Rebellion and owner-rider Katie Dashwood.

Post-woman Maisie Bush made the long trip north worthwhile when she won the novice series with Carole’s Destroyer, a horse Maisie used to care for while she worked in racing for trainer Neil Mulholland. Having loved him in his racing days, Maisie has kept since his retirement in 2000. “I can’t believe it,” said Maisie, “I’m a postie winging it!”

Jasean Spraggett and Kelly Morgan’s Top Wood were crowned winners of the Tattersalls RoR Veteran Series on his first visit to the championships and his first since he won the 2019 Randox Health Foxhunter.

Master Wickham ridden by Claire Lewis Burnieboozle shown by Sophie Staveley

Master Wickham took a masterful turn around the Tattersalls RoR Challenge championship under Claire Lewis. Known as Darci, he last raced in 2015 and has gone on to achieve great things, including BS/RoR Bronze League Champion, a clutch of BS points, a RoR Northern BE100 Championship, qualification for Badminton Grass Roots, a spot on an RoR dressage Top Wood ridden by Jasean Spraggett quadrille display team and RoR dressage finals. In short, he can turn a hoof to anything!

Burnieboozle and Sophie Staveley took the Tattersalls RoR Open In-Hand title for the second year consecutively. The eight-year-old, who also competes under saddle, was formerly trained by John Quin before he retired from racing in 2018.

Pharoah Rules New Forest and Hampshire Show Brockenhurst, Hants 25-27 July 2023 Report by Beth Simons Photos by TopShots Photography

A rider in her last year of juniors picked up a win on her Welsh section D while a New Forest pony who lives less than a mile from the showground secured a championship win.

A New Forest pony contesting his first HOYS qualifier of the year went through the card to clinch the HOYS M&M open ridden title. Bakeburn Pharoah, a seven-year-old, bred by the late Brian Wilson and his wife Angie was ridden by joint owner Will Chatley.

“I bought Pharoah as a foal and later sold a half share of him to Susan Frost, who’s been a friend for many years,” said Will. “He’s a pony I do everything on - from hunting and jumping to checking my mares on the open forest,” he added. “This was only his second show of the year and also his first attempt in a working hunter pony class which he also won.

He really is a once in a lifetime pony, but who knows what the pony from the woods will think of the NEC.” Reserve went to Rachel Cooper riding her own Connemara stallion – Glencarrig Camelot. The nine-year-old was previously used as a covering stallion for the Blakehill Stud before starting a ridden career in 2022. “He won the Picton Connemara final last year and was champion in-hand Connemara at Royal Windsor, too,” said Rachel, who nearly missed her class due to going to the show solo. “I totally misjudged the show traffic. My friend Debbie Colbert was waiting for me to tack him up quickly so I could essentially canter to the ring!” said Rachel. Camelot is a half-brother to the infamous Glencarrig Knight and qualified for Royal International at BSPS area 14. “I’m really pleased to have qualified as we were a bridesmaid on many occasions last year, but he’s really strengthened and matured over the winter, so I was hoping to go one better and get that golden ticket this year,” added Rachel, who has Camelot produced by the Follywood show team.

14 | Showing World | September/October Issue 2023 | info@showingworldonline.co.uk

Bakeburn Pharoah ridden by Will Chatley

It was an emotional day for Maddie BorosKemp who won the HOYS M&M junior large breeds qualifier and the overall title riding Gobell Idwal. “It’s my last year in the class so it’s been an emotional day,” said Maddie, who runs her father’s livery yard. Idwal is an 18-year-old black Welsh section D who has been in the placings in many qualifiers this year. “We gave these classes a shot last year and finished with lots of seconds so this year I’ve been so lucky to qualify,” added Maddie.

Glencarrig Camelot ridden by Rachel Cooper

A Dartmoor pony who has now accrued 18 HOYS tickets in the eight years he’s qualified with the Johnstone family picked up his M&M junior small breeds ticket here. Ridden by 12-year-old Toby Johnstone-Evans, Pumphill Fandango has previously been to HOYS on the lead-rein, as a first ridden and an open Dartmoor with Toby’s mother – Zara JohnstoneEvans, who produces him from home. “Due to jockey error here, we didn’t get anywhere in the championship, but I think the number of times he’s qualified must be some sort of record,” said Zara.

The hunter title went to Timpany Imperial and Oliver Hood. The eightyear-old lightweight hunter is owned by Julia Moorhouse. “I have owned him since he was a three-year-old and I bought him from Peter and Sally Hobbs,” said Julia. The son of Emperor Augustus has been lightly shown this season but picked up his HOYS ticket when winning at Lincoln in June. ‘He stood champion at area 16 and Newark and Notts,” said Julia.

Imperial has previously stood reserve supreme at the National Hunter show and champion at the Hickstead Derby. “He is a lovely horse who has a real character,” she added. ‘He also loves to jump and being at the Hoods has really brought the best out in him.”

Gobell Idwal ridden by Maddie Boros-Kemp

Alex Osborn and his own lightweight cob winner Oxford Blue went on to win the HOYS cob championship. The 10-year-old gelding was described as a ‘daddy’s boy’ and is very much cherished by Alex who has owned him since 2019. “We’ve qualified for HOYS in both the cobs and coloureds now,” said Alex. “He was originally piebald but now his colour is historic as he is mostly white,” said Alex, who was also in the final placings with ‘Oxo’ at Royal International in their coloured class. “It was a fantastic ring to ride in here and it was exciting to come home with some silverware – it was very old school, but fantastic,” said Alex. “I was grinning from ear to ear as we thoroughly enjoyed it and had the best day, despite all the mud and not being very clean!”

In show pony ranks it was Emma Angelique-Trebble’s 128cm class winner – Barkway Fascination - who took the title. Matilda Holmes’ deputised for Emma’s daughter Daisy on this occasion due to Emma being in hospital undergoing treatment for breast cancer.

Another two Barkway ponies were in the limelight in the mini show pony classes with Barkway Dancing Queen and Lilly Cayzer winning the HOYS lead rein class and championship. It was then Addy Fowler and Barkway Mr Mcgregor who won the first ridden and took the reserve spot. “The New Forest show is a lucky one for us,” said Addy’s mother Alexandra.

“In 1993 I qualified for HOYS for the first time riding Markoak Flashman.

Addy qualified for HOYS for the first time in 2019 riding Cosford Charming Gift and now Barkway Mr McGregor has qualified here today.”

Legend in Manhattan ridden by Gemma Rees Rotherwood Fascination ridden by Matilda Holmes with judge, Martin Jones

Gemma Rees partnered Claudia De La Hey’s Legend in Manhattan to a HOYS riding horse title after winning the large section. “This was his first show of the year after we bought him in February,” said Claudia. Harry, as he’s known at home, is produced by Adam Winbourne, and won Royal International in 2022 with breeder Vicky Hesford. The eight-year-old is by Leander out of Maid in Manhattan. “Gemma has done such a good job of riding him, and I’m looking forward to watching them together at HOYS and then taking over the ride next year,” added Claudia.

Emmy Parkhouse and Jackets Destiny won the HOYS part-bred qualifier.

“We bought Perry, as he’s known at home, from his breeder Julie Rucklidge as a three-year-old,” said Emmy’s mother Serena. The son of Cusop Dimension has had a successful career to date including winning HOYS in 2019 as a 148cm show pony. “This year we’ve had a quiet but fabulous season with Emmy being at university. We gained our RIHS ticket at the BSPS winter championship show and at the NPS summer championships they stood amateur champion and part-bred champions,” she added. “This HOYS ticket has been our highlight though, as Emmy hasn’t ridden at HOYS since they won in 2019.”

The HOYS M&M WHP title went to Katie Bettison’s Robe Manor. Ridden

by Georgia Love here, the son of Errew Midnight Magic was bought three years ago. “He’s a lovely allrounder and we made it onto the HOYS La Liga list last year, so it’s great he qualified this time,” said Katie.

“He’s lots of fun to jump with loads of scope and really deserves his time to shine at HOYS,” said Georgia, who has qualified six ponies. “He will have a stand-in jockey at HOYS as I will be riding Cashelbay Comet in this class.” info@showingworldonline.co.uk | September/October Issue 2023 | Showing World | 15

Grace and William with Gleann Rua For Love

BY THE GRACE OF GLEANN RUA Dublin horse Show Photos by 1st Class Images Clifden photos by Rynes Walker “That will do me for ten years,” said Grace Maxwell Murphy when she left the ring at Dublin Horse Show in 2012 riding reserve champion ridden Connemara pony Gleann Rua Ruby.

Little did she know that her spur-of-the-moment comment would become something of a curse, and she really would have to wait ten shows and eleven years for another tricolour.

“It was such a throw-away comment because it was a monumental moment for us; I didn’t think it would be true!”

Her husband William McMahon peeled back the lid of that curse last year, and this summer, the couple well and truly lifted it, taking an enviable three titles home to their County Galway base.

Beth Simons caught up with Grace to find out more.

Grace grew up with Connemara ponies. Her grandfather was a horse trainer and judge, but it was when Grace’s mother Beatrice Maxwell Murphy married Dr Ted Murphy and moved to Galway, the home of the Connemara pony, that she fell in love with them, catalysing a lifelong passion.

Shortly before Grace was born, her father purchased two Connemara mares. Grace won the 1994 Clifden championship astride Tulira Blackthorn at just ten years old, and the other mare, Tulira Purple Heather became the foundation mare for Beatrice’s Gleann Rua prefix, named after the family home in Taylor’s Hill, Galway.

Incidentally, Grace still has the plaque from the front of the house.

“It was sold to developers, and we shut the door for the last time in April just gone,” said Grace. “It was a very sad time for us as a family as when your family home is sold after both your parents have passed, it’s like a piece of your identity is lost, so I brought it [the plaque] with us and William and I hope to immortalise it in stone on a pillar on our own farm.”

When you talk to Grace, it’s abundantly clear that as well as learning how to ride and show from Beatrice, she also inherited her mother’s love for the ponies. Grace explained that having lost her husband and left with a family of nine children, things were tough for Beatrice, but “she was ‘a force’. I think she saw a wildness in some of us and felt that if she could keep us interested in ponies, it would keep us out of trouble.” She also saw herself in Grace as she had also been the youngest in her family and had also lost her father at 15 years old.

Beatrice’s homebred ponies were winners in the best of company, and an early ‘standout memory’ for Grace was her mother winning the Royal Dublin Show Connemara championship in 1999 with her homebred stallion Gleann Rua Maxwell. Maxwell had already won the All Ireland with Grace in the saddle, and taken champion both in hand and ridden at Clifden that year with Grace’s sister Lorna.

16 | Showing World | September/October Issue 2023 | info@showingworldonline.co.uk

It was Maxwell’s son, Ruby, that Grace rode to reserve in 2012; the win that would ‘do’ her ten years. Unfortunately, that win was tinged with grief when her brother tragically died the same week. “We went home so happy and then it suddenly turned to horror overnight. Now the whole memory is etched in grief – a big celebration then a terrible tragedy. You never get over it as a family. It’s only really years later having my own children that I can fully appreciate the pain my mother went through having to bury a son, the fruits to her loins. I don’t believe any of us ever came to terms with the loss but certainly the horses and ponies kept us busy. I firmly believe that having to get out of bed in the morning to look after horses and going riding outside is what has gotten me through the darkest of times. It’s true what Winston Churchill said, there is nothing better for the inside of a man than the outside of horse!”

Whilst Grace’s skill as a rider and producer of Connemara ponies was developing, so too was her interest in horses and the Irish Draught, something she attributes to her time hunting with the Gallway Blazers.

Her interest was largely put on hold while she studied for her law degree and subsequent qualification as a solicitor, but, luckily, the horses weren’t entirely sidelined, as it was through them and hunting that she met husband William, a former Point to Point jockey. Fittingly, it was on the hunting field he later proposed.

“He started coming to shows with me with the Connemaras and enjoyed it, and then we started buying a few Irish Draughts to produce as hunters together and to do a bit of showing,” said Grace, explaining the foundations to the next chapter at Gleann Rua. “I had bought a sport horse foal whilst in college off a man I had worked for, the Late Willie Fahy who taught me many life lessons, most notably the importance of being kind. This foal by French Buffet became my foundation mare, Gleann Rua Times. She has bred some beautiful horses for us.”

Whilst Grace had to wait ten shows for her next Dublin win, William hit the headlines literally ten years later, taking supreme hunter at Dublin riding Gleann Rua Times’ second foal, Gleann Rua Da Vinci. “It was the first time we’d consigned a show hunter at Dublin, so to win was such excitement,”

Gleann Rua Da Vinci

Gleann Rua Ruby winning Dublin Horse Show in 2012

said Grace. Then to win the middleweight championship and on to win the supreme was just pure and utter magic. Having bred then owned, produced and ridden him was the icing on the cake.”

Da Vinci has since joined Jill Day’s team, produced by Robert Walker and has already proven that he will also be one to watch on this side of the water with strong championships already to his name.

Despite starting their own successful breeding programme, Grace and William continued searching for quality Irish Draughts. “We’d buy three-year-olds but found it hard to find what we wanted. They either had lots of bone and lacked quality, or they were quality and lacked bone. So, we bought some nice fillies and started to breed our own. We also buy a number of foals in.”

This is the model the couple have stuck with, running the homebred and purchased youngsters on in batches on their 130-acre farm before breaking and selling them on. “We produce hunters all winter, selling a lot to the UK, Holland and America,” said Grace. “Producing mainly Irish Draughts and Connemaras and sticking to the native Irish breeds makes us a bit unique. And because they’re with us from foals, we really know them all by the time it comes to breaking and selling.” The model must work because they “get a lot of repeat custom.”

William hasn’t let go of his racing roots entirely, though, as he and Grace store a couple of National Hunt Thoroughbreds ever year. “We absolutely love the Thoroughbreds; we breed one mare and store a couple of National Hunt horses. The sales are very exciting and we love being a part of it. We hope to put one of our stores into training in the near future and we’d love to have a runner in Cheltenham some day!”

Grace also attributes her husband’s ability to give confidence to young horses to his Point-to-point days. “It translates well,” she surmised. “Irish horses are born to cross country but having someone on their back that gives them confidence and nurses them along with aplomb makes the job a lot easier.”

Whilst looking for youngsters online, Grace happened across an advert for an Irish Draught filly in 2020. That was just the beginning of what’s turned out to be a fantastic 2023 season.

“She had a beautiful head and front; really stunning and that’s all you could see. She was online few days so I rang to see her.” This filly was Gleann Rua For Love (Love), bred by Noel Sheridan out of Springvale Countess by Cappa Amadeus. Up close, Grace and William found Love to be the full package with quality, bone and movement: “A classy filly. I’d always watched those Draught classes and dreamed of having a filly to consign to the three and four-year-old mare class at Dublin, and when I saw her, I thought if she’s not a Dublin mare then I don’t know what is! I didn’t know at the beginning of the year if I’d get the weight on her, but we turned her onto some really good grass and she came.”

Three-year-old Love not only won but also took the championship over the older, more mature mares, something Grace and William were “thrilled” about.

Gleann Rua for Love

Serendipitous Facebook find Edenagor Star was not about to be left out. “He was due at an auction down the road from us at Claremorris. We went down early to see him in the car park before he went in, but he wasn’t there as the owner’s county had gone into a localised Covid lockdown the evening before.

We asked around and managed to get the owner’s name and looked up his number from an old RDS catalogue. I rang and asked if we could see him, and we drove up and bought him that day. He was everything we ever wanted in a draught and more.

He had oceans of bone but quality in abundance and movement to match.”

Dreaming of owning a Class 1 stallion, the couple presented Star for grading on the 24th of March, just days after their baby son Archie was born. “I was so excited having prepared him for three years I just couldn’t miss it, so we all went together’ said Grace.

“I got to watch Star achieve his Class 1 and it was such a lovely family moment.”

Keen that they should attempt to take him to Dublin as at the very least an exercise in PR for prospective mare owners, William was determined he’d be ready.

Though Grace admits to some tearful moments when watching him in the parade, thinking “he really is everything we thought he was,” the couple were both “speechless” when he secured first place and their second championship of the show.

Good friend Patrick Curran’s Connemara stallion Glencarrig Douvan made it a hattrick. Patrick had asked Grace to produce Douvan and he was broken with Grace and a William in 2022.

Edenagor Star

A dream come true!

“I was pregnant all winter but got back on in April when Archie was two weeks old’,” said Grace. “There was no pressure, but I had in my mind that I wanted to take him to the HOYS qualifier at the Northern Ireland Festival on 21st April and despite having no expectations, we finished second.”

Again, with little expectation, they took Douvan to Dublin. “I was quietly confident as he was going well,” said Grace, “But I didn’t know how he would cope with the atmosphere.” Despite initially standing second, the pair pulled out all the stops to secure a win and then the championship. “I felt in that time that my mother was with me in spirit; she knew how much I wanted it and she was always there at shows if she could be and first on the phone if she couldn’t be.” To add to the magic, William was also in the Connemara championship, deputising for Grace on promising second placed four-year-old Connemara Glencarrig Kingman, and the pair had also shown Balmoral and Tattsersalls champion Gleann Rua Marskman to be second in the four-year-old heavyweights.

Since Dublin, then there have been yet more headlines after Clifden, the “ultimate” show in the Connemara calendar. “Our promising young threeyear-old Class 1 stallion Glenville Glic, whom we also bought as a foal has had an amazing season but it’s Clifden everyone wants, and for him to win there was really special. My mare Glencarrig Princess Ella won and was reserve champion as a two-year-old so to bring her back and win at six was amazing. She’s now a two-time Clifden winner.” Glencarrig Douvan also did the double by winning both his in hand stallion and ridden classes and standing reserve supreme.

Waving to Mum, who was watching from above

Just a week later, Douvan and Star both booked tickets to the NEC in October. Star will be joining the Price Family Supreme lineup, and Douvan the ridden Connemaras. “I’m not sure if it was exhaustion or shock that left me nearly numb that day. There are only two HOYS qualifiers in Ireland so obviously they are hotly contested. Even if you’re not a draught person there’s something about Star that draws you too him, but we didn’t know what type of horse or pony the judge would go for. Then to be riding Douvan around the evening performance having just watched Star and be called forward as the winner was just nothing short of dreamlike.”

Glenville Glic at Clifden 2023

Glencarrig Douvan at Clifden

Gleann Rua Marksman

Their intention is to simply enjoy the journey and the experience of HOYS. “It will be our holiday before courts open in October and I will be officially back to the grind. I’ve really had the maternity leave of dreams,” said Grace. “But we work hard for it. People only see the good days and don’t realise there are dark days too. You have to take the bad days on the chin hoping you get your good days, because on a good day, there’s nothing like it.” Somehow, we think there will be plenty more good days heading home to Gleann Rua House.

info@showingworldonline.co.uk | September/October Issue 2023 | Showing World | 19

Dublin Horse Show Dublin, 9-13 August Edit compileed by Beth Simons, Ciara Mullen and Aoibhinn Ruane | Photos by 1st Class Images

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1. Brendan Furlong’s lightweight Bloomfield Watergate (Watermill Swath x Ballyconnery Surprise) gave rider Jane Bradbury her third supreme hunter title at Dublin. Bred by Daphne Tierney, the four-year-old has already had an enviable record at Dublin having stood supreme young horse in 2022 as a three-year-old.

2. Aubrey Chapman and John Irish’s five-year-old middleweight Casey’s Expresso (Ulysses M25 X Hugginstown Rose) claimed the reserve supreme hunter title.

3. Dublin Horse Show leading rider James Smyth scored quite the hattrick.

He ran through the cards to take the heavyweight championship with Debbie Harrod’s five-year-old Endeavour R (Cavalier Royale x Cushinstown Diamond) and also won the small hunters and the riding horse title with the Harrods’ Highview Overado and Lulu De Beau respectively.

4. Rachel Moore and her own seven-year-old middleweight Ballymacbrennan Meridos (Mermus R x Ballymacbrennan Condita) took and impressive turn around the working hunter course and stood working hunter champions for the first time.

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5. In reserve for the working hunter spoils was Gwen Scott riding 10-year-old ‘old faithful’, Flores Diamond Count (Floriscount x Ballybannon Lass) owned by Lynne Shields.

6. Brien Kane’s Armah County winner Cal Master De Muze (Pollux de Muze Z x April Eanair) topped the Ladies Side Saddle final ridden by Rebecca Rafter.

7. Maria McNamara steered Tom McNamara’s Shanbally Catchphrase (Heigh Ho Dubh x Altnastar Bluebell) to win the Irish Draught Performance class for horses six years and over.

8. Kate Harrington’s Sizing John (Midnight Legend x La Perrotine) won the Racehorse to Riding Horse class.

9. Ciara Mullen secured a win in the intermediate side saddle final astride John Hagan’s five-year-old Chantilly On the Rocks (Guiness x Stripe Hector Lady) having qualified at Armah County. Ciara also topped the mare championship with Ballarin For Joy. 10. Kate Horgan piloted Jane Dalrymple’s nine-year-old Connemara pony Kinamara Laura (Cashelbay Chip x Lady Sparrow) into the runner up spot in the intermediate side saddle final having qualified at Flavours of Fingal County Show.

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11. John Roche was delighted to take the broodmare championship with eight-year-old Assgart Fairytale (Coroner x Assgart Sapphire).

12. Jessica Murphy did the double, taking home both the show hunter pony and working hunter pony tricolours with mum Melissa’s intermediate type Darcy De Chanteloube, an 11-year-old by Rotspons Prince MFS. 13. The reserve show hunter pony sash was awarded to Katie Wyse riding Amanda Torrens’ 153cm Leave It To You (Brief Encounter x Barbella).

14. Romping home with a reserve in the working hunter pony section was Aoibhinn Ruane and Stephanie Moore’s nine-year-old Dynamite Replay having finished second in the intermediate working hunter pony class.

15, 16, 17 Grace Maxwell Murphy and William McMahon had a show to remember, taking both the Irish Draft mare and stallion championships. Gleann Rua For Love (Cappa Amadeus x Springvale Countess) took the tricolour for the mares. It was Edenagor Star (Dunsandle Diamond x Edenagor Rosie).

The ridden Connemara championship also headed home with the couple, after Grace rode Patrick Curran’s five-year-old Glencarrig Douvan (Glencarrig Knight x Wyncroft Dawn) to win the open stallion class.

18. Reserve champion ridden Connemara was the winner of the class for riders under 17 years old. This was Amira Curran riding Daryl Curran’s Caherpuca Chappy (Coolin America x Loughfadda Darling).

19. The first of the popular Connemara Performance classes for 4–6-year-olds was topped by Gloria Nolan riding homebred Ardnehue Maxamillion (Burning Daylight x Robe Thunder).

20. Fiona Nangle’s 13-year-old Liscannor Tulira (Tulira Robuck x Liscannor Lass) won the Connemara Performance class for ponies over six years old under Anna Nangle.

Beech Wood Ryan ridden by Izzy Hartswood-Collier

Defender Burghley Horse Trials BSPS Gold Cup Finals Burghley Horse Trials, 31 August-3 September 2023 Photos by 1st Class Images

Captain Foley ridden by Isla Smith

TGF Lucy ridden by Alice Cowie

Izzy Hartswood-Collier is having the summer of dreams. Having recently stood supreme pony at the RIHS astride Claire Collier’s Connemara pony Beech Hall Ryan, they stood supreme working hunter pony at the BSPS championships and then went one better than last year to secure the 90cm/143cm Gold Cup Final at Burghley and the section championship.

Let’s hope the pair retain their form to have a wonderful time at HOYS, whatever the end result.

15-year-old Captain Foley jumped a stonking round to secure the 80cm/133cm class for the second year consecutively. This time, however, it was Isla Smith in the saddle having taken over his reins from Florence Drewitt.

The super 133cm working hunter pony has an impressive track record, being a former Windsor and HOYS winner. Isla and Captain are HOYS bound this season having qualified at BSPS Wales.

Izzy also finished runner up in the 1m section riding Dunore Star, also owned by Claire.

Winning the section and taking reserve was another combination having a brilliant summer: TGF Lucy and Alice Cowan. 153cm Lucy is owned by Alice’s mum, Janet. This year Alice and Lucy won at the RIHS, stood champion in the Gold Cup at the BSPS Winter Championships, Supreme Champion of Champions at BSPS Summer Championships, and qualified for HOYS at the Royal Highland Show.

The smallest winners were former RIHS supreme mini, Annandale Augustus, ridden by Arabella Pease and led by Georgina Pease. The trio won the lead rein working sports pony class.

Annandale Augustus ridden by Arabella Pease and led by Georgina Pease

Juniors Jump To It A new working hunter pony class launched in 2022 has proved a huge success for the younger generation coming up through WHP ranks. Showing World takes a look at some of the riders who gained their golden ticket.

attracting around 30 entries.

One combination who won the very first qualifier at the Three Counties show in June will make their HOYS debut together. Frankie Summers, 8, who is one of the youngest riders competing in the class will ride her mother Helen’s Islyn Arafa Don. This duo has been on great form all season with many cradle stakes wins throughout the year. Not only did they win the very first qualifier, they went on to win two more classes at the NCPA Staffs Country festival and The Showing Register (TSR) summer show at Stoneleigh, where they won the overall WHP championships at both shows.

A NEW class for budding working hunter pony (WHP) jockeys will see 17 successful combinations enter the Topspec arena next month.

The organisers of Horse of the Year show (HOYS) introduced a new qualifier in 2022 for Mountain & Moorland WHP ponies not exceeding 122cm with riders who have not attained their 12th birthday by January 1 in the current year. The class has proved more popular this season with many qualifiers

“Frankie loves the class and it’s proving a good step up from cradle stakes to the open 122cm

Islyn Arafa Don ridden by Frankie Summers (Equinational)

M&M WHP class,” said Frankie’s mother Helen.

“They are huge classes with around 25-30 ponies competing in them. Danny has had a break for a few days, but we’ll start some indoor jumping practice now,” added Helen. “We have no expectations as this is the first time Frankie’s ridden there off the lead. We’re just pleased to have qualified,” added Helen.

Towergate First Impression ridden by Tabitha Hughes (Equinational)

Rhencullen Roquette ridden by Jorgi Craigie (Sinclair)

Carrickfergus Admiral ridden by Evanthe Hughes (1st Class Images)

Twin sisters Tabitha and Evanthe Hughes, 11, will both be contesting the final. Tabitha qualified Towergate First Impression at Cheshire County, which was their first qualifier of the season. The partnership has been together for six years and started off in lead rein classes. “They jumped a lovely clear round at Cheshire in torrential rain,” said Tabi’s mother Miranda, who noted that Tabi and Cracker, as he’s known at home, have also picked up HOYS tickets for the M&M first ridden class and the junior small breeds final.

The 13-year-old palomino gelding finished fourth in the open FR and second in the Pretty Polly FR at Royal International this year. “At home, the pair love to hack and generally have fun together,” said Miranda. “They were team winners of the pony club regional dressage this summer, winning their arena individually.

They have also qualified for Olympia in the performance pony class, and they’ve done a lot of pony club camps over the years where

they have done lots of cross country,” added Miranda. “I think this has helped prepare them for the WHP classes. The classes have been a brilliant series for less experienced ponies or riders, giving them an opportunity to jump at the big shows but over more confidencebuilding courses.”

Tabi’s sister Evanthe picked up the wild card for this class with her Shetland pony – Carrickfergus Admiral. The black Shetland has been with the family for seven years and has done everything from hacking, pony club and lead rein showing. “Admiral has qualified for RIHS before, but he’s never been to HOYS,” said Miranda. “The girls have absolutely loved these classes this year. I think the open height is a very tall order for a Shetland, but this height is jumpable. I just hope the course isn’t too big at the final,” added Miranda, who will also watch Evanthe jump the open 122cm class on Springbourne Compas. “Evanthe has tried so hard this season - going from jumping her

Shetland to a section A and her 133cm plaited pony.”

Rhencullen Rockette and Jorgi Craigie qualified at the Scottish Horse Show and will be making their third appearance at the NEC. “Mrs Brown looks after Jorgi no end,” said Jorgi’s mother Caroline Casey. “If Jorgi gets it wrong Mrs Brown gives it her all and always has her back. Been consistent all season, but they have a variety of life and go to clinics, hacking and beach rides,” said Caroline, who praised Russell Skelton and James Munro for preparing the children for the HOYS tracks. “They have both really helped Jorgi along the way,” said Caroline. “It’s a great class to not be against the adults. Would be even better if the age limit was 14, not 12.”

info@showingworldonline.co.uk | September/October Issue 2023 | Showing World | 25

Grace Morton, 10, and Rygar Teddy Baloo won the qualifier and the WHP title at the NPS summer championship show. “To prepare for the class we’ve been hacking up lots of hills to build his stamina up, staying away at overnight shows and being at high energy shows with loudspeakers,” said Grace’s mother Jo Kettleborough. The chestnut gelding has won recently at some practice shows including taking supreme at Norton District riding club show. “He’s only getting two days off a week now,” said Jo. 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. “He’s done a bit of everything, but this is our first year of showing,” added Jo, who runs a riding school in Lincoln.

Haverford Fauntleroy (Rory) and Tabi Curtis qualified on their third attempt at the final Stoneleigh Horse Show in September. Owner, Maggie Simons had intended to enter Tabi in some first ridden classes on another pony, but thought she would see how she got on with Rory, too, who usually jumps open tracks with Maggie. The pair got on well, but Maggie could see that Rory and Tabi’s hearts were in jumping, and after the pair took a successful turn around the training stakes at NPS, she entered them for the HOYS junior class thinking, “why not?” They were second, and so Maggie and Tabi’s mother, Chloe identified two more opportunities that Tabi could make around show jumping with her own pony, and was thrilled when the gamble paid off at Stoneleigh.

“Tabi has never done any showing before, so it’s been a massive step up for her, but she’s loved every minute” said Tabitha’s mother Chloe. “The pony is a credit to Maggie, and she’s been very lucky to have the ride halfway through the season to do these classes. Tabi went to HOYS as a five-year-old to watch so it’s going to be a great experience for her.”

Former M&M first ridden HOYS winner – Blisland Echo – won the qualifier at Stoneleigh’s August show ridden by Tommy Lee. Bought by the Lee family two years ago, Echo won HOYS in 2021 with Hannah Lee’s eldest son Tommy. “When Echo came home last October, the very first thing he did was jump straight out of his field,” said Hannah, also won the HOYS M&M lead rein qualifier at Stoneleigh with Hannah leading her youngest son Harry, 4. “We now think he was trying to tell us that he wanted to jump! Tommy then said to me, ‘see Mummy, Echo can jump, please may I jump him?’ and this was where their jumping journey began,” explained Hannah. “They both absolutely love jumping and have had such fun competing in these classes this year.

The course at Stoneleigh was an exciting course and they both had smiles on their faces the whole way round. Tommy was so delighted and to jump Echo at HOYS will be a complete dream come true for him.”

Haverford Fauntleroy ridden by Tabi Curtis (1st Class Images)

Rhydygar Teddy Baloo ridden by Grace Morton (1st Class Images)

Llanafanfawr Bryan and Oscar Elcock qualified after standing second to Frankie and Arafa Don at the NCPA Staffs show. The combination has been together just over a year and last year jumped at HOYS in the open 122cm class.

“Bryan had been a LR SHP previously, but never jumped in the WHP classes until we got him towards the end of last season, so this was new territory for the pair of them,” said Oscar’s mother Cheryl. “Oscar had not competed at this level in the workers till last season either.

Bryan has been on loan to us from a friend Laura Millard-Long – until her daughter’s legs are a little longer and ready for the workers, so she will take the reins for the 2024 season.

Cheryl said the pair have been out doing some showjumping and cross-country practice as preparation. “He likes a varied lifestyle. I feel this class has been a fantastic stepping stone for children into the workers and up the levels without having to compete against the adults who have years more experience around the technical tracks,” Cheryl commented.

While the classes have proved so popular, there have been some calls for another junior M&M WHP class - not to exceed 133cm - to be added to the qualifiers. What are your thoughts on this?

Email us at beth.simons@showingworldonline. co.uk

Blisland Echo ridden by Tommy Lee (1st Class Images)

Runners and Riders!

Blisland Echo, Welsh A, owned by Hannah Lee and ridden by Tommy Lee Blisland Hero, Welsh A, owned by Clare Judge and ridden by Lilly Judge Bob, Exmoor, owned by Lisa Young and ridden by Holley Lasbury Carrickfergus Admiral, Shetland, owned by Miranda Hughes and ridden by Evanthe Hughes Dunaskin Tipple, Welsh A, owned by Eleanor Crate and ridden by Louis Cure Glebedale Sugar Babe, Welsh A, owned by Rachel James and ridden by Libby James Haverford Fauntleroy, Welsh A, owned by Maggie Simons and ridden by Tabitha Curtis Islyn Arafa Don, Welsh A, owned by Helen Summers and ridden by Frankie Summers Llanafanfawr Bryan, Welsh A, owned by Laura-Paige Millard and ridden by Oscar Elcock Mälby Mahyong, Welsh A, owned by Jenny Deary and ridden by Jessica Burdess Rhencullen Rockette, Welsh A, owned by Caroline Casey and ridden by Jorgi Craigie Rhygar Teddy Baloo, Welsh A, owned by Joanne Kettleboro and ridden by Grace Morton Sunstars Contador, Welsh A, owned by Rebecca Knight and ridden by Isla Buckley Templedruid Carob, Welsh A, owned by Derek Mortimer and ridden by Millie Mortimer Towergate First Impression, Welsh A, owned by Miranda Hughes and ridden by Tabitha Hughes Twynffrwd Carys, Welsh A, owned by Louise Lyons and ridden by Elsie Lynch Vennebos Pearly King, Welsh A, owned by Sadie Osborne and ridden by Lola Carabine

26 | Showing World | September/October Issue 2023 | info@showingworldonline.co.uk

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The Price is Right HOYS’ Price Family Supreme In Hand final brings together a selection of horses and ponies already supreme champions in their own rights at shows across the UK and Ireland for a final showdown. This makes it one of the most difficult of finals to qualify for, and one of the most coveted for breeders and exhibitors of breeding stock.

The first golden ticket was awarded to Louise Noonan and family’s homebred Connemara pony stallion Manor Duke at the Northern Ireland Festival. 12-yearold Duke is by Currachmore Cashel out of Banks Vanilla. He was shown by his producer, Joe Burke, who is a fellow breeder of Connemaras. This will be the pair’s second visit to the HOYS final, as they also qualified in 2021 when they finished third.

Manor Duke shown by Joe Burke (Jump In Action. Net)

Kerry Wainwright’s Skellorn Bronze Soldier trounced all others in the final battle for a place in the Price Family Supreme final line-up at Notts County Show. Remarkably, this will be his fifth visit to HOYS competing in this prestigious final, and he’s also narrowly missed out on a spot in reserve on a further four occasions. He was shown by usual handler Stuart Mason, who also showed him to lift the ultimate accolade for a Welsh breeder in 2019, standing section champion at the Royal Welsh. Last season, he proved that sometimes handsome is as handsome does, jointly topping the coveted Royal Welsh sire ratings.

The sixteen-year-old Welsh section B is out of Burside Penny Black and is Skellorn Consort, meaning that he is a fourth-generation homebred pony. Soldier now makes up an elite trio, with we believe just two others equalling his record for qualification: Castle Emperor and Rosslyn Sweet Repose who qualified five and six times respectively.

Kerry’s homebred Skellorn Déjà vu (Dan) has also qualified for the Price, taking his ticket at Three Counties Show shown by his producer Harrison Taylor. Dan will be having a busy a week at HOYS,

Skellorn Deja Vu (1st Class Images)

as the former Connemara pony of the year has also booked a return ticket under Harrison. “Soldier and Dan both qualified in 2021 but to repeat it in 2023 really is unbelievable,” said Kerry, adding, “to have two ponies I bred of my chosen breeds qualify for the prestigious Price championship really is something dreams are made of.”

A further two Connemara ponies have qualified for the final. Cathy Wood’s Clover Hill Magic was shown by Jamie Frost to book their return ticket to the NEC for the second time at the NPS championships, which is one of the most difficult qualifiers of the year. Meanwhile Lord Vestey and Henrietta Knight’s Castle Nero qualified at Hertfordshire County Show, shown by Simon Charlesworth.

Simon also showed Paul Mortimer and Angela Smith’s Tremarl Timber to qualify at the SHB Hunter Championships on his showring debut having won his hunter gelding class, male champion, youngstock champion and finally supreme in hand hunter. The three-year-old was bred by Jane Smith by Timolin out of Exclusive III. He is produced by Angela’s daughter Vicky Smith who initially persuaded Paul to buy a share.

Tremarl Timber shown by Simon Charlesworth (Spidge)

Jeff Grace also qualified two brood mares for the championship. Both are homebred by owner Virginia Russell-Wood. The first, Royal Stage (Queenie) secured her ticket at Royal Bath and West. The exquisite ten-yearold hack breeding champion is by the prolific stock-getter Kilvington Scoundrel out of the uber successful Stage Whisper, herself a Price Family supreme contender twice. Prior to breeding, Queenie enjoyed a successful ridden career winning at Royal International as a small intermediate and taking several championships as a small hack based with Team Holder. She made her first Price appearance last year having qualified at Devon County. She was shown with her Leander foal at foot, handled by Simon Luck. Virginia’s second, Stage Illusion (Rose) is Queenie’s maternal half-sister. Rose took the final qualification of the year at the BSHA Championships. Like Queenie, she was shown with her

Royal Stage shown by Jeff Grace alongside her foal handled by Simon Luck (Jays Photos)

foal by Woodvean Midnight Blue foal at foot.

Both qualifiers hosted on Scottish soil headed to Scottish homes.

Caithness-based mechanical design engineer Emma Gunn got far more than she bargained for at the Royal Highland Show, taking the Price qualification with her home-produced Welsh Part-bred mare, Penskyber Mayflower (Maisie). Thirteen-year-old Maisie was bred in Pembrokeshire

by Sarah Whitfield. She’s by Small Land Maytino and was shown successfully in hand as a youngster before being campaigned as a 153cm show hunter pony and small hack. Emma has owned her for the past six years and she shares responsibility for Maisie’s production and care with her mum, Vanessa and her dad, Hamish. Though Maisie was shown at HOYS in her previous ownership, this will be Emma’s first time showing at the NEC.

“She really is a horse of a lifetime. She has given us so much joy over the years; competing in the ridden classes, giving us a beautiful black filly foal, and now my first ever HOYS ticket! It’s surreal that we have tried to qualify with a number of ponies for HOYS ridden classes over the years, always being so close but never getting that golden ticket then to go and qualify in the prestigious Price on first try is just a dream come true,” said Emma.

The second ticket, awarded at the Scottish Horse Show, also headed to Caithness, and was won by The Sligo Queen (Aria), a six-year-old broodmare owned by Ashley and Brian Anderson of Ashlea Stud. She was bred by Chris Macnaughton of Co Kildare, Ireland, and is by Sligo Candy Boy out of Leanbh Ceadaoin. Aria has been owned by the Andersons for three years, and she is currently in foal to their three-year-old Dignified colt, Ashlea’s Black Magic. She was shown in the final supreme judging

by Russell Skelton, who had actually found Aria for former owner Freda Newton at Goresbridge as a yearling. Though producer Vicky Smith produced Ashlea’s Perfect Spirit, bred by the Andersons to qualify for the Price in 2021, Aria will be the first consigned to the final by the Andersons themselves.

Ashlea’s Perfect Sprit was shown on Vicky’s behalf by her friend Steven Lemon. This year, Steven has qualified Philip Jones and his wife Megan Kellet-Jones’ sport horse broodmare Calliope (Luna) having stood supreme at Aintree National Show. The Renkum Calliano eight-year-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.

Penskyber Mayflower shown by Emma Gunn (1st Class Images)

The Sligo Girl shown by Ashley Anderson (Sinclair)

Calliope shown by Steven Lemon

Di Sexon’s exquisite three-year-old riding horse breeding champion Tawstock Delilah clinched the ticket at Devon County Show, led

by Stephen Davey. Produced by locally-based Charles Upham, the chestnut filly is by Langaller Starring Role out of Tawstock Fedora - herself a previous HOYS in-hand finalist - and is a third generation homebred. “It is always special to qualify for HOYS, but to do so at our local show makes it extra special and to have Di ringside to see her lovely filly claim the title was the icing on the cake,” said Charles.

Tawstock Delilah shown by Stephen Davey (Jays photos) Peronne The Navigator shown by Hayley Reynolds (Equinational)

Glynwyn Pussy Galore shown by Scott Gibbons (1st Class Images) Walsaker Colorado shown by Colin Tibbey

Booking his second trip to the final at Derbyshire Festival was New Forest pony Peronne The Navigator, shown by his owner Hayley Reynolds. The five-year-old New Forest is the only one of his breed to ever qualify twice for this most prestigious of breeding championships.

He is by Moortown Nobby out of Dorridge Little Beauty and was bred by Isle of Wight-based breeder Nick Williams.

Hayley purchased him as a two-week-old foal, basing her decision entirely on one photograph and his breeding. “I collected him off the ferry at weaning; I had always wanted one by Moortown Nobby and I love his mother’s lines, too,” said Hayley. He had a quiet year as a yearling, but nevertheless took two championships from three outings.

As a three-year-old, he took four tricolours and booked his first trip to the Price Family Supreme at Royal Cheshire County Show, led by Tom Pearson as Hayley was heavily pregnant with her son.

Since gaining their ticket, Hayley and Navigator have stood supreme mountain and moorland at the Royal Highland Show and won the New Forest supreme at the NPS Great British In Hand Show.

The only Welsh cob to qualify this year is Meirion, Diane and son Caleb Evans’ homebred Gwynfaes Seren Wledig shown by his producer of several seasons, Dorian Lloyd. Dorian led Seren to qualify at the Royal Welsh Show after he won the ultimate accolade for any Welsh cob breeder: the Prince of Wales cup. Seren’s achievement was made all the sweeter because it fell on Caleb’s 18th birthday.

There will also be one Welsh section C in the lineup. Kellie and Scott Gibbons’ Glynwyn Pussy Galore thrilled her Yorkshire based breeders by bringing home the coveted supreme championship at the Great Yorkshire

Show, shown by Scott. She is by Swansea-bred Blaencila Bonheddwr out of the multi-garlanded Glynwyn Vespa. Interestingly, Vespa is also the dam of Glynwyn Annie Power, who qualified for the Price at the Royal Welsh last year. Meanwhile Bonheddwr is also the sire of Rhoswen Guardsman, who also qualified for the same final at the Royal Welsh.

Two Welsh section Bs have qualified, the first being Lynn Wilson and Rebecca Knight’s homebred Walsaker Colorado who qualified at Royal Lancashire Show. The Royal Welsh winner is a previous contender after he qualified to stand alongside his father, Paddock Rio in 2019. He was shown by producer Colin Tibbey who also showed another Royal Welsh and Royal Welsh Winter Fair winner, Thistledown Athene to clinch her ticket at Bucks County on behalf of new owner Patrick Wormgoor.

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Thistledown Harper Royale shown by Craig Elenor (Topshots)

Athene was the second carrying Sandy Anderson’s Thistledown prefix to qualify this year, as Craig Elenor had already qualified part-bred Thistledown Harper Royale at Royal Norfolk Show.

The smallest and largest to stand in the lineups will be grey.

Welsh section A Rookery Rapture qualified at Pembrokeshire County. She is owned by the youngest owner to qualify, nine-year-old Austin Davis. Rapture was bred by Serena Crump, and purchased for Austin by his parents Justin and Heidi Davis of the Popsters Stud when she was a foal. She is out of Wernderris Rachel, and by Olympia Champion Uphill James Fox. She was shown to qualify by Heidi while Justin handled her foal. Although Justin and Heidi are used to taking championships at the highest level including wining the Cuddy Supreme – now, the Price – with Parvadean Delight in 2011, Rapture is the first pony that they have qualified of their own.

The tallest and chunkiest to qualify are Irish Draughts Edenagor Star and Corkeeran Willow. Three-year-old Star will be making his way over to Birmingham from his owners William McMahon and Grace Maxwell Murphy’s Galway base.

He qualified at the Irish Pony Society Championships whereas Billy Moran’s Willow qualified at the Great British In Hand Show having won the semi-final.

Corkeeran Willow shown by Billy Moran (1st Class Images)

three-weeks-old as she thought she was special. She is by Rotherwood Fancy That – now gelded and shown under saddle by the Till family – and out of Diptford Morning Grace. Gertrude is produced at home with Jane and she was shown to qualify by first-time ticket-holder Luke Gardner.

Finally, Jerome Harforth produced and showed Pippa Kirby’s three-year-old hack, to qualify at Royal Cheshire County Show.

Monivea Mozart is Pippa Kirby’s first attempt at breeding a hack.

Pippa and husband Philip Kirby, a Yorkshire based trainer, raced his mother but her two previous foals had run only “moderately” so upon the advice of hack afficionado Jerome Harforth, they covered her with Turberry Top Cat intending to breed a hack, intermediate or 14.2, she explained. “He is her first non-TB and she has had two more since. He grew up with four TB racing colts and we’ve documented their life on our racing Facebook page, ‘the Class of 2020’. He was always the fastest, so I hope this doesn’t reflect in their ability to win races,” joked a very excited Pippa at the time.

Chiddock Countdown shown by Daniel Tarpey (Jays Photos)

An elated Daniel Tarpey led Sammy Sykes’ homebred threeyear-old colt Chiddock Countdown to land his very first HOYS Price Family supreme in-hand ticket at Royal Cornwall. Daniel produces the son of the prolific Chiddock Time Limit from his Newbury base. Countdown is out of Wilderness Fancy Spice making the part-bred Arab champion a full brother to the dual Royal International Horse Show (RIHS) supreme pony Wilderness Early Bird, and future plans are for him to be retained to stand at stud.

Representing Midland Counties will be two-year-old filly Rotherwood Grace Darling (Gertrude). Bred by Liz Mansfield-Parnell, owner Jane Laffey reserved her at just

Rotherwood Grace Darling shown by Luke Gardner (Equinational)

Monivea Mozart shown by Jerome Harforth (Equinepix)

Rookery Rapture shown by Heidi Davis (SLR Photography)

Enraptured!

Pembrokeshire County Show

Report by Beth Simons Photographs credited in captions

Nine-year-old becomes youngest owner to qualify for the Price Family Supreme In Hand Championship

homebred Welsh part-bred champion Becklam Aurora. However, Mark found himself drawn to the Welsh section A, stating that “she was conformationally a very correct mare with everything in just the right place; a lovely little mare”.

Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, 16-17 August 2023

Despite being just nine years old, Master Austin Davis has already realised what is for many exhibitors a lifetime’s achievement when his Welsh section A mare Rookery Rapture qualified for the most prestigious of breeding finals in the showing calendar: the Price Family Supreme In Hand Final, set to be judged during HOYS. Rapture was bred by Serena Crump, and purchased for Austin by his parents Justin and Heidi Davis of the Popsters Stud when she was a foal. She is out of Wernderris Rachel, and by Olympia Champion Uphill James Fox. The intention was that Austin could begin his own breeding program using his grandfather Jack Davis’ famous Parvadean prefix as it has remained largely dormant since Justin’s bother Jeremy decided to give up breeding.

His reserve was the striking black section C champion, Glebedale Déjà Vu (Dan) owned by Kitty Bodily and shown by Bryn Jones. The two-yearold commanded the attention of onlookers giving a brilliant account of himself, especially his expressive movement. Kitty and Jill’s longstanding friendship with Justin, who has produced ponies for them for many years meant their reserve was bittersweet. Indeed, Dan is sired by a Parvadean stallion: Parvadean Darius, and he is out of Glebedale Delightful. No doubt Dan will have his day in the future.

Rapture has surpassed all expectations, not only making her own mark in the showring but also successfully breeding prize-winning stock. Last year, her foal Popsters Jigglypuff was the top priced Section A filly foal at the autumn sales making Austin the youngest vendor to top a sales category.

Rapture was shown at Pembrokeshire County by Mum while Dad handled her foal. They won the first class of the 86-strong Welsh Mountain Pony section, before going on to be judge Helen Myers of the Rosemarche stud’s choice as champion. “I was so honoured to have judged the Welsh Mountain Ponies and award her the championship,” said Helen, “She was absolutely beautiful”.

It was breeder and producer Mark Tamplin of the Griashalls stud that presided over the supreme, and he meticulously cast a keen eye over each of the exhibits forwards. As he is better known for his involvement with Welsh section B and riding ponies, general consensus around the ring was that it would be the Llanarth Stud’s Welsh section B champion, Llanarth Consort that would take the crown, with other bets on Rebecca Lamb’s Glebedale Deja Vu shown by Bryn Jones (Celfach Photography)

Moor Hall Peter Pan shown by Alan Charlesworth (Celfach Photography)

Seywoods Royal Dancer with Alan Charlesworth (Celfach Photography) Peakstones Lady Lillibet shown by Emma Keeling (SLR Photography)

Barnby Silhouette ridden by Olivia Bowen (SLR Photography)

Caherlistrane Eoin ridden by Harrison Taylor (SLR Photography)

Rapture’s success was all the sweeter for Justin and Heidi as it provided the perfect first wedding anniversary gift for the couple, who showed Parvadean Delight to win the then Cuddy Supreme In Hand Championship in 2011, but have never shown one of the family’s own at the final. “We are absolutely delighted,” said Heidi, “and we can’t wait for the final.”

went on to take the mountain and moorland section championship, pipping Abbie Dark’s HOYS-bound Welsh section C winner Blaencilla Penny (Poppy). Poppy was ridden in the championship

by Beth Simons as Abbie was busy taking the veteran tricolour astride former racehorse Dhaka Dazzle (Timmy). The 18-year-old also took home the RoR championship.

Mandy Godden’s ultra successful Moor Hall Peter Pan was once again a hopeful contender for the Price Family Supreme in-hand championship at Pembrokeshire. The diminutive riding pony stallion was handled as usual to take the riding pony breeding trophy by producer Alan Charlesworth. Peter Pan is by Royal Welsh champion and Cuddy Supreme runner up Stanley Grange Cocksure and out of successful show mare Moor Hall Tinkerbelle. To say he is multi-garlanded would be an understatement, as he has countless championships to his name, including at least one at Pembrokeshire County Show for every year of his life including as a foal but wit the exception of 2020 when the show didn’t run. He’s also had multiple tricolours at NPS and various respected county shows including the Great Yorkshire Show, Royal Norfolk, Herts County and Royal Bath and West. Alan also showed Carolyn Campbell’s part-bred Arab champion Seywoods Royal Dancer.

By Turberry Top Cat, the classy colt is out of former HOYS and RIHS winner Colbeach Duet.

Graham and Gill Keeling’s homebred 16-month-old Shire filly Peakstones Lady Lillibet delighted her connections taking home the Shire championship shown by the couple’s daughter, Emma Keeling. “Every so often you know when you breed a special one and we are all thrilled with how Lillibet is maturing,” said Gill.

A jockey brought up just a stone’s throw from the showground took the supreme ridden championship. This was 23-year-old Olivia Bowen riding her own intermediate Barnby Silhouette (Milo). Olivia threw caution to the wind took full advantage of seven-year-old Milo’s elegant way of going and gambled that a beautifully executed serpentine would not be too much for judge Kay Sinclair James who requested a simple show in the show’s eleventh hour. As Olivia works full time in Herefordshire, Milo is produced by mum and dad, Rosanna and Leo Bowen.

The five-hour journey south-west was well worth it for producer Harrison Taylor, who clinched the inaugural Connemara pony qualifier hosted at Pembrokeshire County Show riding Caherlistraine Eoin (Frankie). By Caherlistrane Prince, eight-year-old Frankie was bred by John Joe O Neill, is owned by Jennie Elizabeth and Georgie Maria.

This will be his first appearance at HOYS, and he booked a junior large breeds ticket at Stoneleigh Horse Show (September) under Georgie just to make his journey thoroughly worthwhile. Harrison and Frankie then

Lillibet is sired by Westwinds Zebedee who was standing at stud with Jason Holder of Colloe Grove Shires in Gloucestershire.

Zebedee has since been sold and gelded, meaning that Lillibet is one of only a few quality shires around by him.

She is out of Peakstones Lady Kate and her field-mate, granddam 17-year-old Woodside Margeurite, was just a foal when the family moved to Pembrokeshire. Interestingly, Lillibet is the third generation of females to win the championship at Pembrokeshire County Show, with Kate and Marguerite having done so previously.

Kate had difficulty birthing Lillibet so she was worryingly lifeless when born. “It was a very traumatic time,” said Emma. “Thankfully, Damien was on hand to revive her and get her going helped by Mum, until Dad arrived home from work”.

Lillibet was not shown as a foal but has caught the eye of several judges this year, also standing reserve champion at Aberystwyth, youngstock champion at Tivyside Agricultural Show and reserve youngstock at the Royal Welsh. The family plans to show her as a two-year-old, and providing she continues to mature as intended through winter, they’ll try their luck in a few HOYS qualifiers.

Emma, who also takes a keen interest in Welsh cobs alongside partner Damien breeding under the Cwmrhymni prefix, is proud to be following her Grandad Albert’s footsteps as he was a dedicated breeder for over 50 years. “She will, of course, be a future broodmare and if I can persuade Dad, I may break her in and steal her for the ridden,” said Emma.

info@showingworldonline.co.uk | September/October Issue 2023 | Showing World | 33

Behind the brand: Smart Grooming Whilst readers new to showing may question Louise Bell’s place in Showing World, long-term hunter and working hunter devotees will be taking a sweet trip down memory lane at her mere mention!

In 2005, Louise rode homebred Rock Star to stand reserve champion hunter at Horse of the Year Show and a few years later, she steered Out of Sight to the working hunter championship. Out of Sight also stood champion working hunter at the Royal International Horse Show, a title that Louise secured on no less than sixteen times. Other championship partners included Into The Blue, Get Smart, Rock Star, Crest Cavalier, Cruise Control, Mendip Macho, Special Effect, and Rocky IV. The working hunter tricolour at Royal Windsor Horse Show also headed home with Louise on an enviable twelve occasions. However, three lessons with Dressage guru Michael Eilberg changed the course of her career.

Smart Grooming caught up with Louise to find out more about her extraordinary rise to the top in a second equestrian discipline.

Louise and Into The Blue (Dynamo) looking impressive

SG: Louise, tell us about that pivotal experience? Had you fallen out of love with showing?

Louise: “It wasn’t that I’d fallen out of love with showing but I felt it was time for me to move on to something else, not knowing at the time that this would be dressage.

“I’d had a very rough couple of years starting in 2002, nearly loosing my life in a lorry crash and breaking my leg so badly that I was told by doctors I’d have trouble walking again let alone ever ride again. On top of this, a few years later after full recovery, I lost four of my best horses in two years through devastating circumstances. It was very rare and extremely hard to deal with mentally. Out of Sight I lost through heart fibrillation, Rock Star, a fractured fetlock in the field, Man on Fire a hole in his intestines and Cruise Control from complications after successful colic surgery. One of these would be difficult to deal with for anyone, but to have four was so unfair!

It was like my whole family had been taken from me. As anyone who knows me or has worked with me knows, my horses are “my Gods” and looked after accordingly. I would not wish any of this on my worst enemy, so you can understand a little of how I was feeling about everything, and this is also part of why I hung up my showing crown looking to gain a new one in something else.

“I had also won everything there was to win on many occasions on many different wonderful horses and it was time for a new challenge. So why not dressage?!”

Louise uses the Smart Grooming bag to keep her competition-day products

SG: Tell us about your transition – excuse the pun – from the showring to the dressage arena. What was the process like?

Louise: “The transformation from showing to dressage was a lengthy process for sure. Learning about something new aged 40 was by no means easy. I took the approach that I knew nothing and started again but my basic knowledge and experience was a huge bonus. Funnily enough, my side saddle skills helped me the most as I needed those core muscles for sitting trot, and my showing experience for ring craft and keeping a cool head when things go wrong prepared me, too.

“But acquiring the knowledge of riding was very, very demanding. For years my showing horses were renowned for being beautifully schooled, then I realised that I could do so much better. The higher the level, the higher the training needed.

“As you can imagine there were some lower-than-low moments but from the beginning, I knew I wanted to ride Grand Prix! I also knew I could do anything that I wanted to do; it might take me a moment, but anyone who doubts me will always lose. My motto being if you want something bad enough, work hard to achieve it, and that’s exactly what I’ve been doing for the last 11 years.

“Still, getting to Grand Prix was tough! But then to ride your first Grand Prix on a horse you’ve already had a previous life on and to start a new career with? That was such a precious moment! To get 70% was a celebration, and for Carl Hester to turn round to me and say, “welcome to the Grand Prix club!”, now that was when I felt the real beginning of my dressage career.

“At the beginning, I had Get Smart (who a year later became British Dressage National Champion at medium level) and Into The Blue (Dynamo). Dynamo was the most difficult of the two; he was the spookiest of horses and was not conforming. I was devasted that I couldn’t get him past the judge’s box and wondered on the way home, ‘what have I done?’ I felt like I couldn’t ride and was wasting my time, which a lot of people were very happy to tell me including my trainer, who told me if I wanted to ‘do dressage properly’, I needed a different horse! I always believed he was the one that would go furthest, but it took both horses to get me where I am today.

SG: When did you feel it was really coming together in dressage for you?

Louise: “2019. I’d been doing the dressage for six years and been at Grand Prix level for two.

That third year was outstanding, although I

do feel Dynamo is only coming into his prime now. With Covid and a year off from a small injury – the only one he’s had his whole life – he really is starting to feel simply amazing. So, let’s see what these later years bring as he is a

Louise uses her Smart Grooming brushes to keep her horses looking clean and tidy day-to-day

The plaiting apron keeps Louise’s kit organised and easily accessible

never-ending source of energy which is why he is a successful top Grand Prix horse and wasn’t quite so good at the lower levels. Now he puts his energy into the work rather than just being a class clown!”

Louise: “Representing my country on both horses at both small tour level, and then progressing to big tour level Grand Prix has been amazing! To get the “your’re on the team!” call, to wear the senior team flag with honour and to lead that team at the time to huge success and winning individually probably one of the best times of my life. Then to get to be on the dream team of Charlotte DuJardin and Lottie Fry in no other place than Aachen, and to achieve my own personal best score was all surreal; just incredible!

“The people and the places I’ve been with Dynamo have been unbelievable, and I pushed myself and my finances to the limit, but it was worth every penny of it as I wouldn’t be who I am today without the investment of time money and energy.”

The plaiting apron keeps Louise’s kit organised and easily accessible

SG: What are your career highlights? How did it feel to achieve those highlights?

SG: Is turn out as important in dressage as it is in showing?

What are your go-to products?

Louise: “The dressage and showing complement each other in many ways. Ringcraft is a key factor and the presentation of your test is similar to how you present your horse in the show ring.

“In dressage, turnout is important. To enter that arena down that first centre line feeling amazing and sparkling makes the judges really take notice and every little helps even though you are not marked for this.

“So, for me it’s a must that both horse and rider are immaculately turned out and that’s why Smart Grooming is such a wonderful

company; their products are simply divine! I’ve been using them for a couple of years thanks to my friend Katie Jerram; seeing her at Your Horse Live, I bought a large amount! So Smart Grooming products have been a massive factor in my life for a few years now, even before I came on board as a sponsored rider this year.

“Vicky and the team are brilliant to work with and with my knowledge of turn out and their knowledge of products, it really is the dream! Smart Grooming and I are the perfect match!

“My clients love all my tips and largely get me to titivate their horses before competitions. They often ask me what brands I use for the horses and what clothing I use as a rider, and I’m always happy to help others.”

SG: Do you still have involvement in the showing world?

Louise: “I spend the majority of my teaching and helping others achieve their goals in showing from young children to adults, ponies to horses. I also have eventing and dressage clients and I achieve all they desire in time. Anyone who trains with me becomes a winner!

“I sometimes want it more than they do but I always believe I can improve a partnership no matter how young or old, big or small. I can really do it all!”

SG: Will we see you back in the show ring?

Louise: “I may not be out on the showing circuit these days, but I could come back at a later date…”

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Side Saddle Association’s National Side Saddle Show Bury Farm Equestrian Centre | 4th-6th August 2023 Report provided by the SSA | Photos by SBM Photographic Lewis who took the Costume Concours D’Elegance Championship.

Despite the rain, the enthusiasm of competitors at the 42nd National Side Saddle Show wasn’t dampened. A strong ride off on the Saturday evening where the top four riders’ scores from equitation and equitation jumping compete for the coveted Side Saddle Rider of the Year title and ride each others’ horses. Lauren Allin riding the seven-year-old Ashton Barry once again took the title for the fourth time, with Elizabeth Rogers as Reserve (who has herself been no less than six times the Rider of the Year) with the quartet made up by Emma Lee-Smith and Amy Bryan-Dowell. The four judges with the difficult task were Penny Clarke, Mercedes Gonzales Cort, a visiting judge from Spain, Jean Marsden and Alison Melhuish. The four riders performances on each of the horses is always very interesting and very interesting to watch.

Also in costume the Caro Cripps and Rococo Classes, being dressage to music in costume with a theme, provided good entertainment on the Friday evening, even though the entries were disappointingly sparse this time. Jo Strange and Jakreecha were the winners of the Caro Cripps (adult) and Jana Carney on My Knockillaree Conquistador took the Rococo (junior) section. The entertainment was also enhanced by the riders’ helpers on foot and props.

Katie Ockendon-Evans took the Adult Intermediate Championship with Grace Chittenden in Reserve; the Adult Novice being won by Ellie Jones and Francesca Bell taking the Reserve.

We were very pleased to welcome our friend from USA Erica Munkwitz who has published her research in book form ‘Women, Horse Sports and Liberation’.

We were fortunate to have Erica as our Guest Speaker at our AGM and she came along to the Show, willing to perform any helpful tasks and become involved.

Due to the unexpected departure of our Trophy Officer due to family issues Erica took on the role and aided by Caroline Freyne-Shrubsole all the trophies (and there are over 100) seamlessly got to the presentations in the correct order, thanks go to Erica and Caroline for stepping in so ably. Erica was not our only overseas visitor and we were pleased to meet and greet 14 overseas visitors from seven countries, including New Zealand. Berit Hoffmann and husband Felix travelled over with Berit’s horse from Germany to take part in several classes.

Xanthe Banks riding Bizzie B took the Junior Open Young Champion title with Helen Russell taking Junior Novice and Young Rider Champion on Worsenden Martha ahead of Daisy Hughes and Fouroaks Carlos.

Apart from all the serious business of competing, the Saturday Evening Carvery was very much enjoyed and the new chef at Bury Farm kitchens provided very popular fare and also in the cafeteria.

Another third time winner was Tilly Jackson on Hightopps Someone Special headed the Cygnet Championship beating Georgia Hearn and Poppet into Reserve.

The Organisation Team were once again on top form and did a splendid job both with running the Show and skilfully rejigging the Timetable to allow as many classes as possible to run indoors when the rains came. Bury Farm is also to be thanked for ensuring lorries were towed easily out of the mud.

The Junior Side Saddle Rider of the Year was Moya Payne, winner last year and in her final year competing as a Junior. Riding her mother Sarah Clune’s enthusiastic Connemara Derrow Lad, Moya proved her ability when Derrow Lad found the presentations a wonderful excuse to show himself off but his lap of honour was a treat to see.

With a variety of classes run over the three days, one of the most popular is the Costume Class which, due to high entry numbers, needed to be split into sections. The quality of the costumes reaches new heights every year and more and more attention to detail is seen in some extremely elaborate outfits. Not only the clothing of the rider, but appropriate bits, bridles, saddle cloths and other accessories complete the overall effect. Whilst it is relatively easy to find information on the internet, the make, shape and type of horse is being taken into consideration for the choice of costume.

In the end it was Claire

It was with sadness we had heard in June of the untimely passing of our long-standing photographer Emma Gann and Vanessa Hood, our Chairman, gave a fitting tribute followed by a minute’s silence. Emma had become part of our fixtures and fittings at the show.

In 2024 the Side Saddle Association celebrates its 50th Birthday and the Show will once again be held at Addington Equestrian, near Buckingham with the dates being 26th-28th July 2024. We have many celebratory features planned – please note the dates and we hope to see you there!

info@showingworldonline.co.uk | September/October Issue 2023 | Showing World | 37

Willow’s a Corker NPS Great British In Hand Show Oakridge Arena, Newark Saturday 2nd September 2023 Photos by 1st Class Images

Corkeeran Willow shown by Billy Moran

The NPS Great British In Hand Show hosted the Price Family Supreme In Hand Championship semi-final for the first time.

Caroline Nelson judged and chose Billy Moran’s Corkeeran Willow as her winner, handing the impressive Irish Draught mare with her second ticket to the prestigious final. By Darragh Moylough Vision, eight-year-old Willow is out of Corkeeran Jewel. Billy purchased Willow during COVID having searched for a draught mare for some time. When almost ready to give up the quest, Billy was shown a picture of Willow, and seeing her potential, asked a local friend “to run an eye over her”. She was purchased from Carolyn Wilson who had made the initial acquisition from her breeder, the late Edward Persse, whose son Billy now keeps in touch with. Last season, Willow qualified for the Price at NPS Area 4. This year, Willow stood supreme champion at both Hambleton Show and at the Irish Draught North West Breed Show. She was shown by Billy, whilst Kai Wood took charge of her Tiger Attack foal.

Billy also successfully consigned 148cm brood mare Love Affair. She has a busy day winning all three of her classes, twice standing champion before taking reserve riding pony breeding supreme and supreme owner-bred, shown by Bradley Beardmore with her Tiger Attack foal at foot.

Love Affair shown by Bradley Beardmore

Supreme riding pony breeding was Sophie Clohessy and Lindsay Hewitt’s homebred Linsop Count On Me. The win was especially pleasing for sisters Sophie and Lindsay as the Alonby Chardonnier three-year-old not only added to his impressive tally of wins in youngstock classes at the show, but also followed his mother Rhos Extravagance in taking the supreme riding pony.

Moortown Crusader shown by David Jordan

Linsop Count On Me shown by Sophie Clohessy

In reserve for the Price was David Jordan’s evergreen Dartmoor stallion Moortown Crusader, who has previously picked up three Price supreme tickets, in 2018, 2021 and 2022. This season, he has just missed out as he also stood reserve at Devon County. The 15-year-old was also supreme Dartmoor pony earlier in the evening. Crusader is by the prolific Hisley Craftsman has been joined in several championships this season by his offspring, proving he is an excellent stock-getter as well as show stallion.

38 | Showing World | September/October Issue 2023 | info@showingworldonline.co.uk

Aniar Cashel shown by Joe Burke with Topspec's Katie Mickle and judge Lizzie Briant

Taking the overall supreme of the show was ten-year-old Connemara stallion Aniar Cashel. 2022 RIHS supreme mountain and moorland Aniar was shown by his breeder Joe Burke on behalf of owner Sandra Burton. The former Cuddy Supreme [now the Price Family Supreme] finalist is out of Gowlane Star, and by HOYS finalist and Olympia Best of Breed, Banks Timber, whom Sandra won the RIHS championship with in 2017, and who also belongs to Joe and family. Aniar is HOYS bound having qualified for the Ridden Connemara of the Year final with Sandra.

Reserve supreme was a pony enjoying his final fling in the showring. This was Brian Williams’ Harris of Mendick. The Highland stallion took the Supreme Highland Pony title en route to the supreme. He is also a ridden pony and is having an equally successful final season under saddle, with a win at the Royal Highland Show, and repeating his fist major victory at Blair Horse Show before also going on to stand reserve supreme ridden champion. He will retire to stud at the end of this season.

Harris of Mendick shown by Brian Williams

Exmoor brood mare Bluebarn Nancy stood supreme Exmoor for the second time consecutively. She is owned by Julian Walters and David Hodge, and was shown by David. Julian and David also consigned reserve supreme Dartmoor Shilstone Rocks Rain Man and supreme Shetland Blackertor Magento. The pair pipped Madeline Haynes’ promising young filly Darshill Kitty Pryde to the Exmoor supreme and Claire Connor’s Acresdale Dante took home reserve supreme Shetland.

Bluebarn Nancy shown by David Hodge along with her foal shown by Theo Defrance and judge Jill Graham

Supreme hack breeding was Ian Boylan showing Denise Cox’s Basford Sundance. Ian also showed Kathy Mitten’s Mittens Love Struck to supreme hunter pony breeding.

Basford Sundance shown by Ian Boylan

info@showingworldonline.co.uk | September/October Issue 2023 | Showing World | 39

The National Pony Society Summer Championships Three Counties Showground, Malvern 1-3 of August, 2023 | Photos by 1st Class Images The National Pony Society championships were a resounding success with smiling faces toppin quality lines and enjoying the evening performances in spite of some occasionally very challenging weather.

The hardworking committee provided something for everyone, with younger enthusiasts able to enjoy a whole host of fun classes as well as trying a hand at the more serious finals and qualifiers. Below is just a small taste of the numerous deserving winners who took home first and championship rosettes.

1. Clover Hill Magic and Jamie Frost booked a return ticket to the Price Family Supreme In Hand championship. Owned by Cathy Wood, the six-year-old Connemara stallion is by Glencarrig Knight and was bred by the Lee family just outside Clifden.

Cathy first spotted him at the annual show while queuing for coffee. This season, he secured his first Price Family Supreme ticket at Bath and West, and he almost repeated the feat when he won the Connemara breeding championship for the third time consecutively and later stood a painstakingly close reserve supreme.

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2. Reserve supreme was Moelview Moonstruck, bred and owned

by Richard Jones, who also showed the 12-year-old at NPS. He is by HOYS finalist Moelview Prince Charming out of Moelview Moonshine, and is also a HOYS and RIHS finalist under saddle as well as a former Price Family Supreme contender.

3. Virginia-Russell-Wood’s exquisite Stage Illusion (Rose) clinched the NPS/ Mr and Mrs Roberst Supreme In hand Ottergayle Riding Horse Championship and overall hack an riding horse title shown by Jeff Grace. The five-year-old was shown with her Woodvean Midnight Blue foal at foot. She is a half- sister to the multigarlanded Royal Stage (Queenie), who is already bound for the Price Supreme In Hand final having taken the supreme accolade at Royal Bath and West. Rose is by Future Illusion, and like her sister Queenie, she is out of Virginia’s uber-successful Stage Whisper, herself a Price Family supreme contender twice.

It’s intended that Rose will now follow in Queenie’s footsteps and enter the ridden ring next year.

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4. Gorgia Toms rode Michaela Toms’ Bewcastles Bell to top the Assendons Freestyle To Music final. Always a crowd favourite, this fun-filled final requires combinations to perform a freestyle show to music of their choice in the evening performance. This pluckly eight-year-old Fell mare by Clifford Blue Chip enjoyed a string of good placings at the championships.

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Laura Nicholson and the Team Walker produced Absolutely Lovely won the large intermediate show riding type class and the coveted intermediate show riding type championship to secure the pair’s place at HOYS. Absolutely Classic (Connie) and Millie Lockhart secured their HOYS ticket to the Part-bred Pony of the Year final. Connie has been leased to the Lockhart family for the past three seasons from Caron Scudamore, as her own daughters are busy with their studies. Millie and Connie won this final in 2021, and they were also reserve part-bred this year at the RIHS. They also compete in intermediate show riding type and show pony classes.

This is their second 2023 HOYS ticket, having also qualified in the 148cm ranks, and it’s the third year consecutively that they have secured at least one ticket at Malvern’s Three Counties Showground. Safe to say, it’s their happy hunting ground! She’s since won a ticket to the LIHS in the new performance pony classes at Dunster show.

Michelle Rowles-Lloyd led her daughter Medi Lloyd astride Brynrodyn Danika to win a super-strong lead rein mountain and moorland class before topping the championship. At just four-years-old, Annie showed plenty of promise and maturity beyond her years. This is the third HOYS ticket for the family, as Michelle has qualified her own Welsh cob Haighmoor Horace for the ridden final and dad, Dorian Lloyd has qualified Welsh cob stallion Gwynfaes Seren Wledig for the Price Family Supreme in hand final.

Reigning Showing World Junior of the Year Annabel Drake – now out of section! – rode Vanessa Clark’s Blakehill Matador to win the Picton Connemara Final and the Picton Novice championship, which is always a showcase for talented young ponies. He first showed great promise this season when he stood novice champion at BSPS Area 5’s spring show ridden by then owner-producer, Katy Marriott Payne prior to Vanessa purchasing him. He is by Cnocban Cassanova out of Coosheen Wren and was bred by Cian Geoghegan.

Grace Speak rode Mountain Gale to win the senior ridden class and later the section championship, led by mum, Lucy Speak, booking their slot at the London International Horse Show final run by Senior Showing and Dressage Ltd. It was a remarkable achievement as Gale is 30 but looked half her age!

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About Time Curtis clinched a HOYS ticket in the 153cm show hunter pony class under owner Kaitlin Fairhurst before going on to secure the section tricolour.

This will be Kaitlin’s final spin in this class, making the moment bittersweet.

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Lily-May Joyner showed Julie-Marie Joyner’s Caffreys Jack The Lad to win the young handler 7-12 years old class and later the young handler championship.

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Beeftub Bell Emilio turned a tiny hoof to a whole load of classes during the championships. She is photographed en route to winning the lead rein working hunter pony class ridden by Morgan Matthews and led by Marie Matthews.

Belle also won the mountain and moorland novice lead rein final, the junior concours d’elegance and the tiny tots lead rein, and stood third in the home produced lead rein final. Former RIHS contestant Belle is leased to the Matthews family by owner Kate Hampton.

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Glebedale Sancerre (Princess) is a five-year-old on a mission to impress under young rider Lilly Richardson. She is leased to Lilly’s mum, Lucy Richardson by her breeders Kitty Bodily and Jill Williams. Princess and Lilly were the winners of the novice first ridden final and the section championship. As well as bagging herself an RIHS ticket, Princess has belied her lack of milage to give grown-up performances in HOYS classes and has secured no less than three tickets.

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Alice Sheen and her own Highland pony Carlung Xephyr won the Dargavel Final championship. The final is aimed at mountain and moorland ponies aged 4-6 years old, and the pair won the six-year-old class. They also stood third in the Picton Novice Final for Highland ponies.

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Scarlett Dowdswell steered Anne Thornhill’s Christina Gillett produced Dibynn Miss Congeniality to win the HOYS 148cm show pony qualifier and the section championship. The pair are having a super season, having recently stood second in the 148cm final at the RIHS.

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Lockie Roberts leads Ella Souster’s Sangrug Spartan to win the mountain and moorland junior in hand class for large breed exhibits and later the championship.

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Reigning HOYS champions Griseburn Major and Joe Watson top the Black Country Saddles final for Highlands, Fells and Dales ponies and then took the championship. The six-year-old Wolsey Viking Dales stallion also stood second in his Ringside Stud Open Championship class.

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Moortown Golden Girl donned a fantastic disguise to win the Fancy Dress class led by April Hammerton and ridden by William Hammerton.

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Jess Tunney rode Jane Cooper’s homebred Welsh section C Chatterbox to top the training stakes 69cm final and championship.

Chatterbox is out of Starcrest Mel Aur by the multi garlanded Popsters Tommy Cockles. She also stood second in the 133 WHP novice final and reserve champion.

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James Burchell topped a fantastic fortnight’s showing by winning the Welsh section A HOYS qualifier and the open championship on his grandmother Mandy Burchell Small’s Rowfantina Orlando Bloom. The previous week James and Orlando Bloom won the UKP&H Junior championship at the RIHS!

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Intermediate section winners Zara Weir and Deloughtane Rockstar, owned by Shona Weir headed home with the plaited working hunter pony tricolour. The Harlequin de Carel 10-year-old began his showing career as a small riding horse with wins including at Blair Castle and he even stood fifth at the RIHS as a four-year-old. Since taking up jumping, he’s gone on to take numerous championships including at the ’22 Royal Highland Show.

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Hillgarth Lucky Legend shown by Lisa Wigglesworth

Welsh Action at the Royal Welsh Show!

Builth Wells, Powys | July 24-27, 2023 Report by Beth Simons | Photos by 1st Class Images A Lucky Legend!

The show’s first morning opened under tempestuous skies, but competitors were rewarded for coming forwards by brightening weather.

First into the main ring were the hopeful exhibitors of Welsh section Cs under saddle, who were nose-to-nose during the first walk around the ring.

Judges Eleri Marshalsay-Jenkins and Adrian Bowen pulled Louis Dennis and Steph Glover’s striking chestnut stallion Hillgarth Lucky Legend in top, ridden by Lisa Wigglesworth. By Blaencilla Ashley and out of Hillgarth Lady Luck, the eight-year-old stayed top. He is in his second season under saddle, and succeeded in making his first count by qualifying for HOYS. No doubt a gold medal will have made this season yet more magical.

Steppers Relight My Fire shown by Aimee Devane with judges Leon King and Sue Hardy

As usual, the Welsh section D gelding class was well supported, giving judges Sue Hardy and Leon King plenty of work sorting through them. An astounded Cassie Reagan was pulled forwards as winner on Julie Halliwell’s Trefforest Versace. The 17-year-old by Trevallion Hooch out of the multi-garlanded Pantanamlwg Free Gift was enjoying his last trip to Builth. An emotional Cassie’s week continued on high as she secured the HOYS small breeds championship riding her own Welsh section B, Clanmill Top Vote.

The stallion class saw Aimee Devane stand top riding Ashleigh O’Rourke’s HOYS bound and former LIHS finalist Steppers Relight My Fire. Although we have seen Aimee clinch countless wins during her career as producer, the Brynithon The Director seven-year-old gave Aimee her first cob championship at the Royal Welsh. He was purchased just backed from his breeder Dex Davies, who also had a tremendous week with his in hand team.

In reserve was the winner of the mare class, Pennal Royal Anthem, owned and ridden by the recently married Emma Clarke (nee Scott). Although she is light on miles, the Pennal Welsh Guard nine-year-old has hit the ridden circuit with flair this year, winning her first ever HOYS qualifier at NCPA Derbyshire Festival. She appeared to grow in confidence as the class progressed and looked completely at ease strutting her stuff in the championship making her surely one to watch in future.

Sarum Phantom ridden by India Latter-Sears

The Welsh section As and Bs under saddle were sadly not judged in the main ring but rather in the horse ring. Nevertheless, the standard was excellent, with plenty of quality for judges Pippa Balch and Harold Zoet to enjoy. Section A afficionado India Latter Sears taking the Gold Medal for the Section A with Stuart Franklin’s Sarum Phantom (Heniarth Quinell x Sarum Poppy), a pony in his second season and HOYS bound for the second time. The B class saw Arwyn Evans’ Hilin Frozen (Ysselvliedts Lord Markham x Hilin Cameo) take the medal home, ridden by Teleri Edwards.

Stunning Spectre!

The week’s Welsh classes were altered slightly for this year, with the Welsh section A adult stock waiting in the wings a day longer than usual. Instead, Julie Perrins judges the youngstock on her first morning in the ring.

It’s a nervous moment for any exhibitor to bring forwards a reigning champion for judging, but Ashley Oldroyd and Dan Williamson of the Danash stud were rewarded for doing so with 2022 youngstock champion and reserve male champion Idyllic Spectre. The three-year-old

by Springbourne Capricorn and out of Springlane Soprano not only held his title, but also went on to stand male and overall champion, much to the delight of handler Ashley and to Dan watching nervously alongside breeders Mark and Liz Kilbey.

Idyllic Spectre with owners Ashley Oldroyd and Dan Williamson and judge Julie Perrins

Reserve for the youngstock award came from the two-year-old filly class. This was Gill Farrow’s homebred Waitwith Jeneva, by Waitwith Sierra Star and out of Waitwith Little Jewel. She was shown initially by her producer Liesel Mead, but was shown equally successfully the following day by Liesel’s friend and fellow producer Sam Morsley, taking the female championship and later the reserve overall title.

Winners joining the pair in the youngstock championship were the Menai Stud’s yearling colt and best yearling Menai The Rebel (Friars Rebel x Menai Seren Goch), Roland Williams of Greenlands Insurance’s yearling filly Dargale Babydoll (Dargale Aristocrat x Dargale Bess), Rhys Freeman’s two-year-old colt Fouroaks Skyfall (Fouroakes Caravel x Thistledown Skylark), and Sian Jones’ Islyn Olwen (Nantdywyll Llenor x Islyn Blodwen).

Sarah Dennard’s Heniarth Yarra-Glen seven-year-old was named Cwmmeudwy U Bedol for luck by breeder Rod Lewis, the U Bedol representing the lucky hoseshoe. Luck was certainly on her side when she won the class for Section A barren mares 4-7 years old, shown by

Freddie Luke on her showring debut. Darrel and Anita’s homebred Dargale Athena (Three B Playboy x Dargale Andromeda) was handled by Adam Fletcher to win the second of the barren mare classes, being a 12-year-old.

Godebog Rhosyn Y Mynydd’s foal by Thistledown Eurostar initially captured the hearts of spectators with a superbly plucky and confident show during the initial trot-in. Fiveyear-old ‘Mum’ by Brynrodyn Derwyn out of Bryncadnant Polly, followed and quickly stole the show, handled by breeder Alun Hughes. She continued her charm campaign into the female championship and secured the reserve spot.

Sandy Anderson’s homebred multi-garlanded Thistledown Eilean Mor went one better than last year to win the brood mare 8 years and over class. The ten-year-old by HOYS and Olympia finalist Gartconnel Shooting Star is out of Maestir Valetta, and she was shown by Heidi Davis.

Colt foal Penual King Canelo secured Rhys Freeman his second class of the show. He is by former gold medalist Pendock Paige Boy out of Idyllic Celeste. However, the overall foal award was handed to Matthew Howell who was showing Ruperra Carefree while her owner Barbara Green was handling mum, Ruperra Chorus Girl. She is by Littlewern Inky who has been with Barbara for stud duties for a number of seasons. Inky is a greatgrandson of Putwell Carreg Llwyd, Barbara’s dad Bill Pounder’s favourite pony. The win was extremely emotional for Barbara as it was the first Royal Welsh without her dad, who sadly passed away last year and who will surely have been watching from above.

Waitwith Geneva shown by Liesl Mead

The first of the stallion classes for exhibits 4-7 years old was won by the ubersuccessful former Glanusk, Winter Fair and RWAS Autumn festival winner Springlane Dragoon, shown on behalf of his owner-breeder Jane Wales. Champion stallion and reserve male, however, was the Waller family’s Delami Bohemian, by Sunwillow Galong out of Brynrodyn Blodwen making their dreams of a homebred winner a reality. The nine-year-old had many spectators reminisce over a bygone era as he was shown in traditional stallion tack by his producer Graham Roberts.

Magnificent Moonaminah!

Stephen Howard presided over the Welsh section Bs and appeared to thoroughly enjoy himself despite the testing ground conditions on his second day of judging. As with each of the four section judges, his work began with sorting through the youngstock classes.

Godebog Rhosyn Y Mynydd shown by Alun Hughes

It was Janet and Steph Mansfield of the Janpete stud’s Janpete Moonwalker, by Royal Welsh and Royal Highland winner Janpete Class Act, and out of Cadlanvalley Jodette who took home the first red rosette of the section. He was swiftly followed by Kerry Wainwright’s homebred winner of the yearling filly class, Skellorn Seville (Skellorn Casanova x Skellorn Chloe).

The reserve youngstock champion came from the two-year-old filly class, won by the reigning Winter Fair supreme champion Eyarth Vienna. Vienna was bred by her owners Jessie and Joe Parry, who showed her. She is by Rhoson Adonis out of Eyarth Titania.

The owner of last year’s champion, Sandy Anderson, had his first win of the section in the three-year-old colt class, being Thistledown Sherman, by Mowbray Pilgrim and out of Thistledown Sheer Lustre. By the end of play, Sandy had a further three wins.

Six-year-old Thistledown Athene (Mintfield Sandpiper x Mintfield Antonella) won the junior broodmare class and Thistledown Arctic Rose, by the Mintfield Sandpiper sired Thistledown Calon Lan out of Cottrell Anya. Arctic Rose is a former Lampeter champion and was reserve youngstock champion at the Royal Welsh. His final win was with 2019 youngstock champion and HOYS qualified Thistledown Shereef, also by Mintfield Sandpiper and out of the aforementioned Thistledown Sheer Lustre. He went on to stand male champion over second-placed multigarlanded Walseker Colorado (Paddock Rio x Paddock Petula), owned by Lynn Wilson and shown by Colin Tibbey, enjoying his final Royal Welsh as a producer.

The female champion graduated from the youngstock championship. This was the winner of the three-year-old filly class, Heniarth Moonahmia, owned by her breeders Richard Miller and Meirion Davies. She was shown by Meirion while Richard showed third place Weston Mimosa, a filly who had made a long journey over from Australia earlier this year. Moonamiah is by the Australian bred Tooravale Houston and out of Heniarth Toodle-Oo. She later went on to take the overall championship over stable mate Heniarth Arietta in reserve, shown by Ashley Porter from the Vanoca Park Stud in Victoria. Arietta is by former Royal Welsh champion Heniarth Woodwind, out of Rhoson Anoushka. She has already had a successful career in hand having stood reserve youngstock champion in 2019. “We are so proud as both the champion and reserve are granddaughters of Eyarth Windflower who won her first Royal Welsh championship in 2003, and having won six times in succession, so she has more than secured her place in the history books,” said Richard. “Both girls tried their best in difficult going so we really can’t ask anymore! Delighted!”

Heniarth Moonahmia shown by Richard Miller Heniarth Arrietta shown by Ashley Porter with judge Stephen Howard and section sponsor representative

Dick Turpin Steals the Show!

It was North Wales based Geraint Thomas’ role to sort through the Welsh section Cs, and his first red rosette was handed to and ecstatic Stacy Rodgers showing her homebred Croslyn Encanto. By Donys Reem out of Gweunydd Glwys, the yearling colt recorded Stacy’s first win with a homebred pony. He later went on to win the special rosette for the best yearling over winning filly, Ashmeadow Delilah, by Blaencilla Ashley out of Ashmeadow Delta. She was shown by Simon Charlesworth on behalf of breeders John and Linda Wilkinson.

Interestingly, it was also their first win with a homebred pony.

The youngstock champion and reserve came from the two-year-old classes, with the champion awarded to Richard Pittman’s Popsters Duke Of Gloucester, repaying Richard for the care and patience he showed when nursing the colt back to health from life-threatening colic surgery last winter. He is sired by Starlans Evol out of Parvadean Saving Grace. This was Richard’s first Royal Welsh win, but was just the beginning of a magical week.

The reserve youngstock award was handed to David Oliver with his homebred Rhoswen Cindy by the uber-successful stock-getter Donys Llawen out of Rhoswen Cara, who went on to win the junior broodmare class and the Paddock Dawn broodmare championship later in the section. Five-year-old Cara is by Rhoswen Gethin out of Blaencilla Arabella.

Rhoswen Cara shown by David Oliver Donys Dick Turpin shown by Richard Pittman with co-breeder Jacky Kirk

The stallion classes provided an eyeful as always for spectators. The winning junior stallion and reserve male was Ioan Evans and Dora Wyn Jones-Evans’ five-year-old Brynseion Red Knight (Donys Importance x Laurtom Red Hot).

His paternal brother Donys Dick Turpin (Hugo) provided Richard Pittman with his second win of the section. He was shown by Richard on behalf of breeders John and Jacky Kirk. 10-year-old Hugo has enjoyed an illustrious career, following in the footsteps of his father, a multi-winner at the Royal Welsh. Hugo went on to secure Richard’s second gold medal of the show standing overall section C champion. Their luck didn’t end there, as they later went on to win the coveted Tom and Sprightly championship where champions from Sections A to D go head to head for the overall prize. “It’s a dream come true,” said Richard.

“Hugo’s a credit to his breeders John and Jacky, and I’m grateful to them for trusting me with him for the last few seasons.”

“He’s a Star!”

It was the Welsh section D champion, Meirion and Diane Evans’ Gwynfaes Seren Wledig however, that made the most headlines.

Seren was handled by his producer of several seasons, Dorian Lloyd, whose ebullient embrace of the 12-year-old stallion spoke volumes. He is by the prolific Gwynfaes Culhwch, who won the Prince of Wales cup for himself in 2002 and whose daughter Perthog Gwenan Mai took it home twice.

Seren had come close on previous occasions, even standing reserve champion male in 2017 and 2018. He first showed his star quality when he stood youngstock champion at Lampeter as a two-year-old, and he later went on to stand supreme champion at Lampeter twice and reserve supreme at Glanusk.

“As dairy farmers and welsh cob breeders, the Wednesday of the Royal Welsh is eagerly awaited at Gwynfaes. This year, however, was even more special as we were also celebrating our son Caleb’s 18th birthday,” explained Meirion.

Their remarkable show started when judge Geraint Davies removed his bowler indicating that Seren and Dorian had won the senior stallion class for the second time before going on to secure the prestigious George Prince of Wales Cup. The win was particularly special on Caleb’s birthday as his intervention was crucial to the stallion’s place with the family. Meirion had agreed to sell Seren to Canada as one of two foals to make a driving pair, but Caleb, who was five at the time, 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 in his place and the rest is history.

Seren returned to the main ring the following day to impress judge Sue Keylock with his undoubted presence and flair and secure the supreme in hand title and a ticket to the Price Family Supreme In Hand Championship. He later became the first Welsh cob champion to stand overall supreme of show over the ridden and driven champion, judged by Sam Waley-Cohen. “He was a magnificent cob.

He was fit not fat, and was a great ambassador for the Welsh breeds with his clean limbs and hocks,” said Sue Keylock. To top it all off for the Evans family, his sire won the RWAS Section D Sire Ratings and his dam Gwynfaes Elliw won the RWAS Section D Dam Ratings.

Gwynfaes Seren Wledig shown by Dorian Lloyd Eglwysfach Neli with Elgan Evans, Geraint Davies and Geraint Lewis

“Since 2002, I didn’t think there could be a day to compete with being in the main ring, winning the George Prince of Wales Cup and qualifying for HOYS with Culhwch. However, watching Seren power his way through the day with the crowd vocal in their support was truly incredible as his breeder; this has to be a once in a lifetime show that can never be repeated.” said Meirion.

Seren’s paternal five-year-old brother Llwynhywel Nebuchanezzar won the junior stallion class and reserve stallion award shown by Richard Burge on behalf of owner Jesse Penfold. He is out of breeder Esyllt Evans’ multi garlanded Brynithon Super Lady.

Danaway Jolene shown by Sam Attrell

The female championship headed home to West Wales with Elgan Evans’ homebred winner of the senior brood mare class Eglwysfach Neli. The 11-yearold by Geler Glyndwr out of Brynithon Southern Breeze was shown on Elgan’s behalf by Geraint Lewis while the proud owner held onto her foal.

The long journey west from Kent was made worthwhile for the Attrell family of the Danaway stud. Their seven-year-old junior brood mare Danaway Jolene won her class and stood reserve female champion. She is sired by former Prince of Wales cup winner Trevallion Black Harry out of Danaway Shakira.

The final gold medal in the Section Ds saw two-year-old Fronarth Boneddiges Yr Ail hold off stiff competition to take the youngstock title home to Ceredigion.

Owned by the Jones family, she is by Fronarth Magicman out of Fronarth Michelle Keegan. Giving her a run for her money to take reserve was Ross Thomas’ homebred Rhonas Welsh Dolly, by Brynithon the Ambassador out of Brynithon Patty.

Zorba The Welsh Cathy Pearse of Devon’s Uphill Stud presided over the Welsh section A and B geldings. Alison Hayward’s three-year-old Immybrook The Baron (Penboeth Bold x Forlan Bright Eyes) won the youngstock section A class, and Serena Crump’s homebred Rookery Brodie took the senior class. The five-year-old then went on to be reserve overall champion.

Fronarth Boneddiges Yr Ail shown by Dafydd Jones Ringside Zorba, Kate Williams, Helen Williams, Cathy Pearse, Anna Crump and Rookery Brodie

In the section Bs, Kevin Morgan’s two-year-old Ystradcothi Macsen (Tooravale Houston x Heniarth Daisy Doesit) and Gwyneth Eastwood’s five-year-old Hazelmoor (Nefydd Adferth x Hilin Reflection) took home Cathy’s final two red rosettes.

Helen Williams of the Seiont Stud sorted through the Welsh section C and D exhibits. Three-year-old section C Popsters Louboutin (Brynseion Dinadan x Popsters Kinky Boots) provided owner Cheryl Mackintosh with her first Royal Welsh win, and he was shortly followed by Annah Marie Chester’s nine-year-old Shankly Man Of War, by Royal Welsh youngstock champion Moorcroft Master Tom out of Tyrllawn The Temptress.

In the Ds, Eleri Walters’ three-year-old LLanarth Mr Whitty (Abercippyn Victor’s Last x Llanarth Winnie) won his class before being awarded the best youngstock award. But it was the winner of the senior section D class that took the gold medal home. This was Kate Williams’ own Ringside Zorba who is well used to Royal Welsh success having won both his ridden classes in 2022. The nine-year-old is by Trevallion Troy out of Gwernfythan Melody.

See next page for 10 Performance Winners

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info@showingworldonline.co.uk | September/October Issue 2023 | Showing World | 47

10 Performance Winners

A Hoekehorst Example ridden by Libby Grota

A)

Hayley Grota’s Hoekhorst Example won the Welsh section A HOYS qualifier under Libby Grota for the third time.

B)

Cassie Regan rode her own Clanmill Top Vote to win the Welsh section B HOYS qualifier.

C)

Rachel Dilcock Thomas’ daughter Annie was the youngest rider to take an open HOYS qualifier riding Welsh section C Wyken Sweet Silhouette.

D)

Tamia Joyner rode the Joyner family’s Cruglwyd Esgob to win the biggest class of the section, the Welsh section Ds.

E)

Emma Hesketh and her own Popsters Travis topped the 122cm working hunter pony class and then took section reserve.

F)

Charlotte Owen’s Llanarth Windsor won the 133cm working hunter pony class under Charlotte’s daughter Sophie.

G)

Eiry Bonner’s Fear An Ti was the only Connemara to win and he did so in style, going on to take champion for the second time.

H)

Sandy Taylor’s Donallt Tywysog was steered to victory in the exceeding 143cm working hunter poncy class ridden by Billie-Louise Voyce.

I)

Simon and Sally Bigley’s Waitwith Wild Apricot won the HOYS lead rein ticket under their daughter Millie.

J)

Michael Dunne’s Marsh Walk On By won the HOYS first ridden class ridden by Mia Dunne.

B Clanmill Top Vote ridden by Cassie Regan

C Wyken Sweet Silhouette ridden by Annie Dilcock Thomas

D Cruglwyd Esgob ridden by Tamia Joyner E Popsters Travis ridden by Emma Hesketh

E Popsters Travis ridden by Emma Hesketh

G Fear An Ti ridden by Eiry Bonner

F Llanarth Windsor ridden by Sophie Owen

H Donallt Tywysog ridden by Billie-Louise Voyce

I Waitwith Apricot ridden by Millie Bigley and led by Simon Bigley

J Marsh Walk On By ridden by Mia Dunne

48 | Showing World | September/October Issue 2023 | info@showingworldonline.co.uk

Sanboro Sugar Tot ridden by Emelia O’Brien

British Show Pony Society Summer Championships Arena UK, Grantham | 22-26 August, 2023 Photos by Equinational

Show Stopping Supremes Overall Supreme was awarded to Emma O’Brien’s first ridden and supreme mini, Sandboro Sugar Tot (Elsa), ridden by Emma’s daughter Emelia O’Brien, 10. Bred by Kelly Philips, seven-year-old Elsa is by Rotherwood Spring Storm out of Sandboro Sweet Sensation.

Elsa gave Emelia her first taste of HOYS in 2021 on the lead, and the pair have since had a blast progressing through the first ridden ranks with several strong wins and tricolours including at the 2022 BSPS Summer Championships. Emelia and Elsa won the HOYS first ridden and mini championship en route to the supremes where they gave a charming show proving sometimes small really is quite mighty.

Supreme show pony was Helen Davies’ Windsor champion, Stoneleigh Showtime. The 128cm was ridden by Izzy Walker, whose pure joy in taking the title was infectious.

Stoneleigh Showtime ridden by Izzy Walker

Supreme heritage working hunter pony was Holly Levett’s super-talented and multigarlanded Connemara stallion Culmore Silver ridden by Charlotte Tuck. The pair are HOYS bound having qualified and taken the championship at Denbigh and Flint show.

Culmore Silver ridden by Charlotte Tuck

info@showingworldonline.co.uk | September/October Issue 2023 | Showing World | 49

Lilly Ahern riding Barossa Royalist with Claire Oliver

Supreme heritage was the reigning first ridden of the year, being the inimitable Shetland Lotuspoint Cassius ridden by Lilly Ahern Lee. Lilly is photographed here, however, riding 128cm show pony Barossa Royalist alongside Claire Oliver as Lilly gave it her absolute all to secure the Robert Oliver Showman Award.

Roseberry Fascinator ridden by Alice Binks

Supreme Intermediate is another young combination on fantastic form: Roseberry Fascinator (Hattie) ridden by Alice Binks. Hattie and Alice secured one of the coveted intermediate show riding type HOYS tickets at the Scottish Horse Show, standing champion after pulling out the stops despite standing second in her class. The pair also won the RIHS small intermediates for the second time consecutively this summer. Hattie is produced by Craig Elenor and Sara Parrott and her achievements to date with Alice are all the more remarkable as they must be one of the youngest combinations competing in the intermediate ranks at just 16 and six years old.

Ruso Something Perfect ridden by Lottie Baxter and led by Ellie Kirkbride

Supreme mini show hunter pony with some serious cutefactor were Sally Baxter’s Ruso Something Perfect (Roy) ridden by Lottie Baxter, 4 and lead by Ellie Kirkbride. Roy is produced by Team Helliwell.

Continuing with their brilliant summer were Supreme Pretty Polly Champions Lowlandview James Bond ridden by Harriet Lomas and led by Lynsey Lomas. The pair retained excellent form from the RIHS where they were Pretty Polly mountain and moorland champions. They are HOYS bound having qualified at Moreton in Marsh Show.

Lowlandview James Bond ridden by Harriet Lomas and led by Lynsey Lomas

Just Murphy ridden by Jessica Wlaby

Wellbank Gabriel ridden by Elizabeth Rooke

Supreme show hunter pony for the second year running was Just Murphy (Socks) ridden by Jessica Walby.

Ten-year-old Socks has been owned

by Jessica’s aunt, Joanne Pybus, and grandma, Isobel Hall for the past five years. Jessica and Socks are now in their second season together as he was previously ridden by Jessica’s cousin, Ella Pybus, who enjoyed great success with him. Jessica, 19, and Socks had a superb 2022 culminating in a win at HOYS. Who knows if they will make it a double there, too?

Supreme mini working hunter pony and Grange Bank Award winners were Elizabeth Rooke riding Welsh section A Wellbank Gabriel (Harry), a former HOYS working hunter pony contender and junior reserve who’s giving new rider Elizabeth a fantastic first season.

Elizabeth and Harry are HOYS bound in the mountain and moorland first ridden class.

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LAP OF HONOUR

Wow! Our readers really have been taking the showring by storm!

We love celebrating your individual successes.

Make sure that you all keep us up to date on your successes to be included!

Email beth.simons@showingworldonline. co.uk and make sure you follow our Facebook and Instagram accounts for more ways to get involved in Showing World magazine.

Heavyweight Champion of the Show!

A Sensational Ruby Tom, Martin and William Fountain’s two-year-old homebred Shire filly Woodhouse Sensational (Ruby) qualified for HOYS at the Ashbourne Show. Though quite an achievement, it’s certainly in her pedigree. Ruby is out of Woodhouse Phenomenon, who took Shire Horse of the Year title in 2021, and her grand dam Woodhouse Dynamite won the title in 2017. She is by Woodhouse Rainman who was reserve at HOYS in 2018, and her paternal grand-sire is Metheringham Upton Hamlet, thrice winner of the title whilst paternal grand dam Woodhouse Calendar Girl was twice champion at HOYS.

Kay Sinclair James’ Bowland Jasper continues to be on form under producer Simon Reynolds. The seven-year-old heavyweight is by Silver Jasper out of Bowland Royal Slipper making him a pure bred Irish Draught. So far this season, he stood won his RIHS class at Area 7, was second in the HOYS at both Staffordshire County and Derbyshire Festival, was RIHS hunter champion at Newark and HOYS section champion at Ashbourne Show. Jasper and Simon also finished sixth in the heavyweights at the RIHS, explained Kay’s daughter Rose, who has taken a year out of competing this year due to the arrival of baby Tommy mid summer. This will be Jasper’s second visit to HOYS.

So all things considered, it’s not just physically large shoes she has to fill! “She certainly holds a special place in the family run stud, who take pride and dedication in producing home bred animals to show case the Shire Horse breed,” said Margaret Threfall. She is pictured during the Grand Parade at Ashbourne Show after a long warm day with William Fountain.

Mighty Little Lady Scott’s Little Lady and Megan Grace Thomas will both be making their HOYS debut this October having won the filly or colt qualifier at the British Miniature Horse Society breed show and taking reserve champion. “Lady is making Megan’s dream become a reality,” said Megan’s mum, Rachael Dilcock-Thomas. “Lady won at the RIHS last year with her owner Charlotte Leonard Richards who has always been so encouraging and supportive of Megan. She is a true friend and role model to give Megan this opportunity she is a true friend and role model.”

52 | Showing World | September/October Issue 2023 | info@showingworldonline.co.uk

Tredragon and Gillian McGowan

Tredragon Vanquishes Competition At Border

Sonic is Star

by Alexandra McGregor

Gill Simpson’s six-year-old Shetland gelding Lotuspoint Super Sonic had a wonderful British Elite show shown by Gill’s daughter-in-law Jess and grandchildren Evie and Harry Simpson who are both four years old. He won his mountain and moorland lead rein class and progressed into the evening to stand mini champion, just as Evie was falling asleep, explained ‘Aunty Jess’, who led the pair. Not to be outdone, Evie’s cousin, and Jess’ son Harry Simpson was placed third in the young handlers, second in the best conditioned class and pulled forward for the top 10 in hand championship. “It was a lot for Harry to run in the evening but he still tried his best and was seventh against the adults,” said Jess, who was very proud of her young charges, including Sonic! “He has been two small local shows then went like a pro at the Elite! Such a little star!”

For a town that may be best known amongst many equestrian disciplines for its racecourse or perhaps Floors Castle International Horse Trials, to those in the showing world, Kelso hosts the second biggest show that Scotland has to offer after The Royal Highland.

The Border Union Agricultural Society holds their events on their own showground which was latterly part of the Springwood Estate, sitting beside the Rivers Tweed and Teviot - quite simply one of the best showgrounds in the country. This year saw Border Union hold their 190th annual show.

On the final day of the show, the main ring held the ridden hunters. Both from Wick, Caithness, the judges were Mr James Munro (ride) and Mr Russell Skelton (confirmation). Over the course of five classes there were thirty-eight hunters forward. The eventual winner of the Ridden Hunter Championship was awarded to Gillian McCowan of Berwick-Upon-Tweed with her bay gelding, Tredragon.

Over in the Teviot Ring, the in-hand hunter section, judged by Mr John Karwl-Jackes of Aberdeen.

With twenty-three entries across five classes, the judge was met with many quality animals. After consideration, the Championship was won by Joanne and William Moran’s colt foal out of Tiger Trap and

by Regal Heights. Following on from this young man, in reserve was Dale Robertson with his very own bay yearling filly, Eran’s Pride. Informative and professional comments from the judge left an enthusiastic and congratulative ring amongst competitors - a wonderful sight to see in the showing world.

A Supreme Masterpiece NPS Area 4 hosted yet another successful show on August Bank Holiday Monday with a host of classes including HOYS qualifiers. The overall supremes were judged by Martin Davies, and he chose John Bennett’s homebred and homeproduced Nunthorpe Masterpiece as his supreme in hand champion, qualifying the pair for the Price Supreme Semi-Final judged at the NPS Great British In Hand Show. Masterpiece and John had taken the Welsh section D championship en route to the supreme. The nine-yearold is sired by Dycott Mourinho out of Penstrumbly Sparkling Model, and has had a successful season having also won his WPCS Bronze and Silver medals.

Martin chose Millie Hollis riding Welsh section A Woodend Marigold as his champion. Millie and Marigold won the mountain and moorland lead rein class and mini champ en route lead by ‘Aunty Amy’ Cook. The pair are having a wonderful season as they also stood Pretty Polly reserve champion mountain and moorland lead rein at the RIHS!

Both hunter champions found themselves later competing for the Don Challenge Cup in the overall hunter championship, judged by all three hunter judges together. They carefully analysed their winners of the day to conclude with their overall hunter being Tredragon with his owner Gillian McCowan.

The titles for the Hunters did not end here, for this impressive gelding had not yet had his finale. In the Champions of Champions, all the winners from all across the show gathered in the Main Ring and anticipated the winner of the weekend. Tredragon was crowned the Supreme with a very deserving Suffolk Sheep in reserve, owned by Alistair Warden from Skelfhill Farm. These winners really put little and large into perspective!

info@showingworldonline.co.uk | September/October Issue 2023 | Showing World | 53

Highlights from Stoneleigh Horse Show August

Blissland Echo ridden by Harry Lee and led by Hannah Lee

Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire 12-13 August 2023 Report by Beth Simons Photos by 1st Class Images

Hannah Lee’s son Tommy, 10, and Welsh section A Blissland Echo won the junior mountain and moorland working hunter pony. By Trefaes Orange Pip out of Springbourne Emma, Echo was first owned and showed successfully by the Darlington family before moving north to be produced by Craig Elenor and Sara Parrott. The pair coached Echo and Tommy to win the mountain and moorland first ridden final at HOYS in 2021. When he moved home last October, Tommy asked Hannah if they may jump him as he kept jumping out of his field, explained Hannah. “Echo is such a character, and we think he was telling us that he wanted to do some jumping! They both just adore the jumping and have so much fun together. Tommy’s dream this year has been to qualify to jump at HOYS.” Later in the day, Echo made yet more dreams come true as Hannah led him and Tommy’s younger brother Harry, 4, to qualify in the mountain and moorland lead rein class. Just like his jumping, Hannah explained that Echo’s competing under Harry came about by chance. Harry’s favourite colour was “lellow”, meaning he was desperate to ride palomino Echo. “Harry started hacking him out and we then realised how amazingly Echo looked after him and how much he seemed to enjoy the job of looking after his little friend. Harry is so excited and for me to lead my little boy at HOYS on Echo will be magical. For Echo to take both of my boys in two such different classes is just so amazing to us and he is just such a special boy. There just aren’t sufficient words to express how much we love and adore him; he is just our absolute pony of a lifetime.”

Nicki Glenn had extra reason to be proud at Stoneleigh Horse Show. Her sixteen-year-old Welsh section D stallion Larnleighs Dictator (Ernie) not only qualified for HOYS, but also took the mountain and moorland open large breeds championship under Nicki’s daughter Harriet, also 16. This will be Ernie’s eighth trip to HOYS, and the combination’s second together. “Ernie and Harriet have a lovely relationship and have enjoyed a bit of everything from hunting to showing. It’s always exciting to qualify for HOYS, but to do it with a homebred is fantastic,” said Nicki, adding “I’m really proud of them both.”

Larnleighs Dictator ridden by Harriet Glenn

Mulberry Lane ridden by Craig Kiddier

Ladies Man ridden by Poppy Carter

Just weeks after his incredible success at the RIHS when he stood working hunter champion and reserve supreme, Susan Tennant’s Mulberry Lane (Obi) secured his HOYS ticket in the open middle weight class, ridden by his producer Craig Kiddier. The pair had already secured their HOYS working hunter ticket at Staffordshire County Show. The OBOS Quality eight-year-old was first spotted by Susan as a three-year-old at Royal Dublin and she duly purchased him. A former winner of the novice hunters at Great Yorkshire Show, as well as winning his working hunter final at the RIHS, Obi secured fifth in the open middleweight class. Lucinda Freedman’s Tigbourne won his lightweight ticket under Hannah Horton, proving that he’s matured to be all he promised when uber-successfully shown as a youngster, and Alice Homer steered Liz Prowting’s Bramham winner and Great Yorkshire Show novice hunter champion Bloomfield Distinction to win the heavyweight division and the hunter championship.

After several near misses, Dani Radford’s homebred Ladies Man and Poppy Carter finally secured their return ticket to the NEC. The seven-year-old is by Tiger Attack. This is his second season with Poppy and the pair made quite the impact on the intermediate scene last year taking the championship at the RIHS and at the Great Yorkshire Show, and standing first and reserve at HOYS. Charlotte Wilson has made Stoneleigh a happy hunting ground. Last summer she qualified her own pony in the 122cm junior mountain and moorland working hunter pony, and this summer she rode Michelle Pendlebury’s Royalview Chanel to win the 128cm show pony class. However, the champion and reserves came from the 148cm class. In reserve was second placed Daisy Allen with her mum Jodie’s Winneydene Charlotte Fox whilst the tricolour headed home with Jane Evans’ Next Chapter ridden by Team Holder member Cerys Holley.

Next Chapter ridden by Cerys Holley

Ranger League of his Lone Highlights from Stoneleigh Horse Show September Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire | 2-3 September 2023 Report by Beth Simons| Photos by 1st Class Images

Cregduff Ranger ridden by Kirsty Aird

Cheryl Mackintosh’s Connemara pony Cregduff Ranger secured a last-minute ticket to the Connemara Pony of the Year under his producer Kirsty Aird before going on to stand champion large breeds. Six-year-old Ranger was bred by Michael O’Malley. He is sired by Drumbad Fletcher Moss out of Cregduff Queen.

Cheryl purchased Ranger from Kathryn and Charlotte Smiley last year having contended a handful of shows in Ireland. “So really, 2023 was his first full novice season. We decided to try him in the HOYS qualifiers where he has had lots of fantastic placings, so we were absolutely delighted to get our golden ticket at the last qualifier of the year,” explained Cheryl, adding, “He’s had an amazing season just missing out on his RI ticket but he won the NPS Scottish novice final and then went on to win the NPS silver medal championship and the gold medal. We really are over the moon with how he’s come on over the year.” Cheryl was quick to credit Kirsty for her work. “Kirsty is just amazing with the young ponies and I am very grateful for all she has done in producing him so beautifully”. Whilst Ranger is new to Kirsty’s team, Cheryl is an established owner-member, as Kirsty also produced Cheryl’s uber successful working hunter pony Woodbank Smokey Sam, a pony she feels reminded of by Ranger. “He has the most beautiful temperament and an absolute delight to work with. We are hoping in 2024 to have him out also as a novice worker, and I’m very much looking forward to seeing him at HOYS.” Katy Marriott Payne’s Welsh section B mare, Clanmill Leteika Miracle (Tickle) made a late entrance to the 2023 qualifying scene only to take the ticket. Tickle

was purchased from her breeder Sarah Hunter Rodwell and won HOYS on her first visit in 2021 ridden by Katy having been shown just a handful of times, and a few months later, she stood Best of Breed under Team KMP member Kimberly Bates. Taking the small breeds championship, however, was seasoned champion Thistledown San Siro ridden by William Leeming having won the Welsh section A qualifier.

Two young riders impressed the mountain and moorland working hunter pony judges to take the section tricolour and reserve. In reserve was Izzy Williams riding her mum Georgina Williams’ Mayfield Boy (Elvis). Year 8 pupil Izzy and Elvis are in their first season together and have had a blast getting to know each other by taking part in a host of disciplines. This was the second 143cm qualifier that Elvis and Izzy won this season, the first being at the TSR Summer Championships where they took the ticket.

Clanmill Leteika Miracle ridden by Katy Marriott Payne Haverford Fauntleroy ridden by Tabi Curtis

The tricolour was taken by Tabitha Curtis riding Maggie Simons’ Welsh section A Haverford Fauntleroy (Rory) after the pair won the junior class. This was just their third attempt at qualifying for HOYS. Initially, Maggie had asked to Tabi to ride another pony, but when “ovary issues stopped play,” Maggie entered Tabi on Rory for some first ridden qualifiers, but quickly realised that Tabi, who competes in eventing and show jumping with her own pony, would be more at home over fences, just like Rory. Last season, Rory qualified in the open 122cm class with Maggie but the pair have had an unlucky season with a series of near-misses.

“We’ve had ‘one of those years’ but watching Tabi and Rory qualify has made up for it, and I’m so proud that he’s giving a young rider her first taste of riding at HOYS.” From the littlest to the largest, taking the working hunter ticket was Becky Hartley riding LVS Finnegan (Trendy).

Cheshire-based sport-horse specialist Becky also show-jumps Trendy, but explained, “he’s just a really smart little horse so I thought why not give it a go?” She

56 | Showing World | September/October Issue 2023 | info@showingworldonline.co.uk

LVS Finnegan ridden by Becky Hartley

Blimey O Riley ridden by Emma Holder

was, nevertheless, extremely pleased to have won in such “brilliant company”. Becky purchased Trendy from Ireland as an unbroken threeyear-old and has broken him in and brought him on herself. “He’s a dream, he’s the perfect horse in so many ways,” said Becky, adding, “My granny could hack him as he has the best temperament but he’s also so talented.” This will be Trendy’s second visit to HOYS, where he finished fifth last year.

competing in the ladies side saddle class. Despite being new to the class, she won a strong qualifier astride Sharon Harries’ cob, Blimey O Riley. Emma explained that she had dreamed of competing in the class after watching her mum Gayle compete when she was growing up.

However, the right horse and opportunity had never presented itself until she was offered the ride on Cobby, who has taken to the saddle “like a duck to water”.

Whilst producer Emma Holder might well have taken scores of horses and ponies to HOYS, this October will see her achieve a new first by

Saturday 2nd December 2023 Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire Brought to you by Showing World Magazine

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Skellorn Bronze Soldier shown by Stuart Mason

Bronze Soldier Conquers Opposition Highlights from Notts County Show Report by Beth Simons Photos by Lauren Barnes Photography Kerry Wainwright’s Skellorn Bronze Soldier trounced all others in the final battle for a place in the Price Family Supreme final line-up at Notts County Show. Remarkably, this will be his fifth visit to HOYS competing in this prestigious final, and he’s also narrowly missed out on a spot in reserve on a further four occasions. He was shown by usual handler Stuart Mason, who also showed him to lift the ultimate accolade for a Welsh breeder in 2019, standing section champion at the Royal Welsh. Last season, he proved that sometimes handsome is as handsome does, jointly topping the coveted Royal Welsh sire ratings.

The sixteen-year-old Welsh section B is out of Burside Penny Black and is Skellorn Consort, meaning that he is a fourth-generation homebred pony.

Soldier now makes up an elite trio, with we believe just two others equalling his record for qualification: Castle Emperor and Rosslyn Sweet Repose who qualified five and six times respectively.

In reserve at Notts County and occupying that tantalisingly close spot was producer Simon Charlesworth leading the hunter breeding champion, Plas Pennant Master Morris, owned

by Peter and Kathy Bowdler. He was bred by Derek Walker and Nick Davies, and Derek was judging at Builth Wells in 2019 when he began chatting to Peter, who runs the show-jumping ring at the Royal Welsh Spring Festival. When Peter mentioned that he was searching for a foal, Derek informed him that he had just the foal. That was Plas Pennant Sir Sidney, who was succsefully shown last season by Simon to stand champion at Three Counties, the Royal Welsh and SHB GB’s Championships. Peter and Kathy returned to the stud two years later in 2021 to purchase two-year-old Master Morris. “We are absolutely thrilled with the result,” said Kathy.

Plas Pennant Master Morris shown by Simon Charlesworth

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