News
Posted on June 27th, 2019
Sam Ward clinches the British Horse Feeds Speedi-Beet HOYS Grade C Qualifier at The Royal Norfolk Show
The British Horse Feeds Speedi-Beet HOYS Grade C Qualifiers headed East yesterday to the Royal Norfolk Show. An initial field of thirty came forward with hopes of gaining one of three qualification places on offer for the British Horse Feeds Speedi-Beet HOYS Grade C Championship Final held at Horse of the Year Show in October but it was Sam Ward from Stowmarket, Suffolk who reigned triumphant.
Course designer Michael Bainbridge set a challenging first round track that proved to be a thrilling competition with faults occurring all over. Four combinations managed to negotiate their way around the track faultlessly to go through to the jump off.
Sam piloted Michael Bates’ Romany, a 10-year-old British bred gelding by Le Tot de Semilly whom he took over the ride from Billy Twomey in 2016, to a comfortable victory crossing the finish line with a double clear in 49.91 seconds. Alex Bishop rode Matt Pike’s 9-year-old Dutch bred stallion Fres Belles into second place posting a double clear in 51.18 seconds.
Keith Doyle took the third and final qualifying ticket of the day with his own Hip Hop L, a 7-year-old Dutch bred gelding whom he has produced for three years. They were the slowest of the double clears crossing the line in 52.03 seconds.
Posted on June 27th, 2019
Dunmow’s Ronnie Lee Jones is one of six stars of the future that share the top spot in the Prestige Italia Big Star Championship Qualifier at Hickstead
Six stars of the future share the top spot in the Prestige Italia Big Star Championship Qualifier at Hickstead
The 2019 Prestige Italia Big Star Championship Qualifiers continued on Saturday with thirty-nine starters heading down to the All England Jumping Course at Hickstead during the Derby Meeting week to compete for a Championship Final place.
The Prestige Italia Big Star Championship, formerly known as the National Six Year Old Championship, was renamed in 2017 in honour of Big Star, a previous winner of the National Six Year Old Championship who went on to win the Individual Gold medal at Rio 2016.
Results are based on clear rounds and the competing combinations do not jump against the clock, therefore all riders were aiming to achieve a treble clear to ensure a qualifying place for the Prestige Italia Big Star Championship Final which will be held during the British Showjumping National Championships at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire (6th – 11th August 2019).
Of the initial field of thirty-nine, twenty combinations jumped clear over course designer Jason Abbs’ eleven fence first round track. Twelve were then able to jump clear in the second round and six went on to jump that all-important third clear in the final round.
Alfie Bradstock from Wantage, Oxfordshire takes through two rides with Gainsborough and Iburg whilst William Funnell from Dorking, Surrey adds another Billy Stud horse to the mix with Billy Everest. Ronnie Lee Jones from Dunmow, Essex takes forward Interstar B, winner of the Newcomers Second Round at Bicton last month. Local man David Simpson from Horsham, West Sussex also gains a spot in the final with I’m Special Too DHH. Joao Charlesworth from Maidstone, Kent produces the sixth and final treble clear with Unbreakable Z.
Hickstead Derby Meeting – Saturday 22nd June 2019
Prestige Italia Big Star Championship Qualifier Results
=1st Alfie Bradstock & Gainsborough
=1st Alfie Bradstock & Iburg
=1st David Simpson & I’m Special Too DHH
=1st Joao Charlesworth & Unbreakable Z
=1st Ronnie Lee Jones & Interstar B
=1st William Funnell & Billy Everest
Posted on June 25th, 2019
Honest Riders sets a sustainability challenge for equestrians across the country
An Instagram Challenge seeking to prompt a huge shift in mindset is set to hit equestrians all over the country and beyond this July. Honest Riders, the ethical equestrian brand, will be challenging equestrians to commit to 5 small changes to make their life more sustainable.
The challenge, named #RidersOnAMission, will feature 40 small ways that equestrians can reduce plastic waste, improve their carbon footprint and contribute to improving animal welfare. Riders taking part will be asked to select 5 of the 40 and commit to them for 30 days.
Honest Riders has collaborated with several other equestrian brands and non-equestrian eco-focused brands to provide a wealth of helpful information supporting the small changes.
Zoe Kiff, founder and Director, created the challenge to address increasing concerns from equestrians that our industry and lifestyles in general are not as eco-friendly as they should be. “Thanks to the ‘David Attenborough Affect’, our impact on the planet is more top of mind than ever before” she says. “Equestrians are aware that they need to do more to reduce their environmental impact, but it all feels quite overwhelming to tackle in one go. This challenge will offer tips from brands and industry experts from the equestrian and wider world on how making small changes will make a big difference.”
The Challenge will go live on @honest.riders Instagram on the 1st July and run for 30 days. All participation can be viewed by searching for the hashtag #RidersOnAMission
Posted on June 24th, 2019
Egmore back to his winning ways
He’s had a 10-year hiatus from the sport but Jonathan Egmore was back in winning form at Hickstead, claiming the honours in Friday’s Al Shira’aa British Five-Year-Old Jumping Championship with Passilano. The Al Shira’aa Hickstead Derby Meeting takes place from 20th-23rd June at Hickstead in West Sussex. With international showjumping classes alongside national competition, showing championships and scurry driving, it is one of the biggest shows in Great Britain.
“It’s nice – unexpected, but nice!” says Egmore, who runs a horse feed and bedding business. His chance to return to the sport came a couple of years ago, when his girlfriend’s family put together a syndicate to purchase three unbroken three-year-olds.
“We’ve got four horses now, so we’re creeping back in,” he says. “It was all just circumstances – it all just fizzled out, and things ground to a halt. I kind of dropped out of the sport and didn’t bother; I didn’t think I’d come back.”
His winning ride Passilano has an unusual background for a showjumper.
“He came from a dressage stud,” explains Egmore. “They’d bought a mare, and then discovered that she was pregnant. They wanted to keep the mare to breed from, but he was never really in their plans. We happened to know the girl who produced the stud’s horses, so she asked if I’d have a look at him and see if he had any jump in him. And that was it, really – it’s been upwards ever since. He’s been very good, and he’ll definitely have the scope to go on.”
Posted on June 13th, 2019
Equerry Bolesworth International Horse Show *IMPORTANT UPDATE*
OFFICIAL STATEMENT:
It is with great regret that we announce that the Equerry Bolesworth International Horse Show will not be opening for public access during the event.
A huge effort has been undertaken by the team throughout the build-up and with continued improvements site wide on going, however with the significant volumes of consistent rainfall we have experienced in the past 48hrs and with further significant rain forecast, we have had to take the difficult decision on the grounds of safety to close the event for public access.
Whilst we are preserving the site to best effect for the sport to continue all week on the all weather surfaces, the ground is not safe enough to allow public vehicles on and off the event site. There are also significant issues on the surrounding roads with standing water limiting access.
Sport can still be watched on the Livestream via: https://www.bolesworthinternational.com/live-stream
Full refunds for tickets including – general admission, season passes, membership upgrades, camping and parking will be provided via the ticket agent you purchased from within 10 working days.
Thank you for all your support to date, this isn’t a decision that we at the Equerry Bolesworth International Horse Show have taken lightly and we ask for your patience during this busy period whilst we continue to make provision for the sport aspects of the event to continue running.
Posted on June 13th, 2019
Equerry Bolesworth International Roundup
DAY FIVE
Equerry Grand Prix Victory for Belgium’s Rik Hemeryk
Belgium’s Rik Hemeryk claimed one of his biggest career victories after winning the Equerry Horse Feeds Bolesworth International Grand Prix. In doing so, he saw off a concerted challenge from nine other combinations that reached the jump-off in pursuit of a £29,500 top prize.
Riding 11-year-old stallion Ulyss Morinda, Rik’s jump-off time of 38.33 seconds proved 30 hundredths quicker than American world star Laura Kraut. Laura, aboard new ride Vvaramog de Breve, produced the form that helped her guide the United States to World Equestrian Games showjumping team gold in North Carolina last September.
And there was also an outstanding performance from Ellen Whitaker and Arena UK Winston, who finished as leading British rider in third place.
Ireland’s David Simpson took fourth aboard Jenson 55, with Britain’s Alison Barton in fifth on Roma IV, just in front of Amanda Derbyshire and Luibanta BH.
The grand prix, which carries a £90,000 total prize fund, did not disappoint as 39 starters tackled the challenge posed by course designer Kelvin Bywater.
But it was Rik who came up trumps after last-to-go Laura finished just short in her attempt to knock him off the top of the leaderboard.
Mini Major Success for Sula and William
William Fletcher and Sula von Bulow teamed up to win an exciting Childs Farm Invitational Mini Major at the Equerry Bolesworth International Horse Show.
The relay race class – all performed in fancy dress – produced thrill-a-minute action in Bolesworth’s International Arena. And the super-hero combination posted an untouchable time of 56.23 seconds, as the rest of a 13-strong field were left standing.
Jay Halim, dressed as a pink unicorn (pictured), teamed up with Lorna Breen to finish second in 57.92, while third prize went to William’s brother Oliver and Eve McCoy, daughter of multiple champion jockey Sir AP McCoy.
Fantastic Treble for Georgia at Bolesworth International
Georgia Tame continued an outstanding run of success at the Equerry Bolesworth International Horse Show by completing a title treble. Georgia had already claimed her second victory of the week just four hours earlier in the International Arena’s neighbouring Castle Arena. But she was in no mood to stop there, adding the Horseware Ireland four-star 1.45metre speed class to her Bolesworth collection with eight-year-old mare Z7 Caretina.
The leaderboard changed hands late in the action, just when it looked as though long-time leaders – Sweden’s Angelie von Essen and Cochella – might have done enough for victory.
Thirty six of the 40 starters had already gone, but Ellen Whitaker then made a concerted bid for the £7,300 top prize with Jack Van’T Kattenheye, clocking 68.75 seconds. But Ellen’s lead lasted barely as long as the round took her, as Georgia took more than a second off that time to claim another thrilling success.
Angelie had to settle for third, with another British combination – Louise Simpson and Felix X – taking fourth.
Tony Scores a Hat-trick at Bolesworth International
Tony Pearson completed a hat-trick of victories at this year’s Equerry Bolesworth International Horse Show as the closing day swung into action. Windsor-based Tony, one of the most prolific performers on the amateur circuit, won the Irish Horse Gateway CSI amateur platinum jump-off final.
It was another impressive performance aboard the ultra-consistent 12-year-old gelding Berlin, and concluded a successful week’s work in the Cheshire countryside.
Early to go among 15 combinations in the jump-off, Tony set a scorching pace, clocking 34.74 seconds. For most of the jump-off, they were well clear of the field, but American challenger Ella Bikoff, riding Kec Havana, ensured a thrilling finish by closing on 35.31.
Ella took the runners-up spot, and third place was shared by Madison Mccrory on Up du Figuier and Bryony Holloway with Elton LV, who could not be separated on 36.60.
“We pulled it out of the bag today,” Tony said. “The horse is such a trier. I like to win, and I think he likes to win, so together we are all right. I was early to go in the jump-off, which suits me. If I watch a few others go, sometimes I will end up trying to tweak a few things and doing something stupid, so it suited me to be early on. I do my own thing, and if they beat me, they beat me. It’s a lovely show. To be here is great, and to win really tops it off.”
The ClipMyHorse.TV two-star speed class went to America’s Mimi Gochman with Avoloma BH in a time of 55.35 seconds, ahead of Laura Johnson and Euphoria Hst, while Ireland’s Vincent Byrne finished third aboard Pearls Princess Gervantus.
And further two-star action in the Castle Arena saw Laura Mantel land the Redrow Homes accumulator class, where riders collected points for each fence jumped up to a maximum score of 65, with quickest times then coming into play.
Berkshire rider Laura finished top of the pile with Muna Vd Bisschop, scoring 65 points in 51.12 seconds, being closely followed by James Smith on The Black Flyer and Kerry Brennan and Wellington M in third.
Major Win for Young Sophie
Sophie Wicks delivered an assured display to win the 128cms Pony Grand Prix at the Equerry Bolesworth International Horse Show. The 12-year-old Cumbrian rider was in commanding jump-off form on Camizion, clocking 36.32 seconds after six combinations made it through from round one.
Leicestershire’s Tabitha Kyle was chasing a Bolesworth double after landing the 138cms title on Saturday, but she had to be content with third place.
Tabitha, riding Living the Dream, recorded the quickest time, but one fence down proved expensive, with Izabella Rogers and Whitney Lass taking second spot by emulating Sophie and recording a double clear.
“It was a very good jump-off,” said Sophie, following the Pony Parents-sponsored class. “I have had the pony since October 2017, and this would be one of our biggest wins. It means so much to me to win here in the International Arena. It’s quite a long way for us to travel anywhere for shows, but it’s really worth it when you have a win like this one.”
Georgia Comes Up Trumps Again
Georgia Tame opened the final day of this year’s Equerry Bolesworth International Horse Show by continuing her rich vein of form.
The Sussex rider had already claimed one victory and a runner-up finish with Z7 Canya Dance, going into Sunday’s AW Jenkinson Forest Products four-star 1.40metre table C class. And they came up trumps again, jumping clear in a time of 52.64 seconds to win by more than half a second from Louise Simpson and Fiona V/H Lemmenshof.
Nigel Coupe and Jubilee III finished third, with Ireland’s David Simpson and Gurtera Cara Drubh taking fourth place.
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DAY FOUR ROUNDUP
Kayleigh Celebrates Bolesworth Victory
Kayleigh Watts reflected on arguably her biggest career victory after winning the Voltaire Design CSI two-star grand prix at the Equerry Bolesworth International Horse Show.
The Hertfordshire rider kept her nerve in a tense jump-off to land the £7,300 top prize with 11-year-old mare Ninkie de Vy Z.
It was an outstanding performance in the face of some fierce competition, with 54 combinations starting the class and nine securing a jump-off place.
Last-to-go Richard Barton, riding Donata, put Kayleigh’s time of 38.35 seconds under pressure, but he had to be content with second place on 39.04, with Steven Franks and Brutus III finishing third and Angela Thompson fourth on Fremont VDL.
“It is probably the biggest class I’ve won,” Kayleigh said. “I have been riding the horse since before Christmas, and then did the Sunshine Tour with her this year. She is incredible. I have never had a horse like that in the arena. All she wants to do is jump clear. She is amazing, and I know that as long as I get it right, then we will be okay.
“I was quite nervous before the first round, and then once we jumped clear I decided to just go as quick as I could in the jump-off. Bolesworth is an incredible, amazing show. It is my third visit here, and this would be my best one so far.”
Vintage Whitaker Performance at Bolesworth International
John Whitaker turned back the clock and produced a vintage performance to win Saturday’s feature four-star class at the Equerry Bolesworth International Horse Show.
The 63-year-old Yorkshireman has collected 19 Olympic, World and European medals during a stellar career that has seen him land major titles all over the world. He made his Olympic debut for Great Britain 35 years ago, and was also part of the team that went to the 2016 Rio Games.
And he showed that none of the magic has left him by winning the John Oates Horseboxes speed class in style on 17-year-old stallion Argento.
Their tried and tested partnership again served them well in a field of 44 starters as they broke 60 seconds, clocking 59.49 to post a time that no other combination seriously threatened.
John collected a £7,300 top prize, with Keith Shore and Iron Lady Van T Meulenhof continuing their successful show – they won an international class on Thursday – by taking second place and heading off a strong Irish challenge.
Ireland’s Michael Pender took third on Hhs Fortune, with his countrymen Gerard O’Neill (Castlefield Vegas) and David Simpson (Foudre F) finishing fourth and fifth, respectively.
John, though, set the standard from a relatively early draw, and he was delighted to add another top Bolesworth class to his list of achievements.
“I aimed Argento at that competition this week,” John said. “He’s 17 now, and I don’t do the big grands prix with him any more, and it all went to plan today. He is naturally quick and really careful, so you can take chances and you know he is going to try. He has got the experience, and we know each other very well. We have got a combined age of 80!
“It’s obviously great to win on home soil, and it is fantastic to have a show like this in the north of England. I am actually a little bit short of top-class horses, but I have got a couple of new ones here that I am working on to build them up. I still enjoy it and I can still do it, so I might as well keep going a bit longer. It gives you confidence when you win a class like that – success breeds success.”
Lila Makes an Impression at Bolesworth
Lila Bremner hailed her pony “one in a million” after claiming an outstanding win on her debut at the Equerry Bolesworth International Horse Show.
Lila’s father – television star and impressionist Rory Bremner – looked on as she delivered an immaculate display in the International Arena to land the Brown Shipley 148cms pony grand prix with Lapislazuli, which is owned by Lila’s mother Tessa.
They were the only combination from 28 starters to go clear in round one and the jump-off over testing courses that showcased some of the leading British pony riders at their finest.
Essex’s Claudia Moore and Shamrock du Gite finished second, with Megan Li and Harry taking third and Francesca Young finishing fourth aboard Carnhill Luna.
“It was quite a tricky course, but he jumped really well,” Cotswolds-based Lila said. “He tries so hard for me. I got him when he was six, when he had not done much and I had not done much, and we have kind of grown together. This would be one of my bigger wins.
“He is so laid-back, but tries his hardest every time. He is one in a million, and we have got a really good partnership. It is my first time at Bolesworth, and it is an amazing venue. To win here is incredible.”
Tabitha Kyle completed a Bolesworth and Liverpool double when she won the 138cms pony grand prix, sponsored by Pony of the Year Show.
The Leicestershire-based rider has been a prolific performer on the national and European stages, and she added Bolesworth 138cms success to the Liverpool title she collected six months ago.
The 11-year-old qualified three ponies for the jump-off, and she triumphed on last-to-go Playboy van de Zoetewei, taking more than three seconds off the time set by Noora von Bulow and Tullineaskey Fear Deas.
Noora took second spot, with Rachel Proudley and Icaris W completing the podium places.
Harry Makes His Mark at Bolesworth
Harry Charles made his mark on day four of the Equerry Bolesworth International Horse Show as he claimed another fine victory with 11-year-old mare Doulita.
The combination showcased their quality by claiming an impressive win at the Theraplate UK Liverpool International Horse Show six months ago.
And there was no stopping them in Bolesworth’s Castle Arena as they took the AA-sponsored four-star two phase class.
Their time of 26.10 seconds denied Georgia Tame a second success in 24 hours aboard 27 Canya Dance, with just 86 hundredths of a second separating the top four finishers.
Matt Sampson was third with Firefly W, and Ireland’s Sven Hadley filled fourth spot on Sumas Taloubet.
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DAY THREE ROUNDUP
Three Cheers for Bolesworth Puissance
Holly Smith completed a remarkable puissance Grand Slam when she shared in a three-way tie for victory at the Equerry Bolesworth International Horse Show.
British star Holly had already claimed puissance titles at the Theraplate UK Liverpool International Horse of the Year Show, London International Horse Show and Horse of the Year Show.
And she added Bolesworth to her collection, clearing a fifth round height of 2.20 metres (7ft 2in) on Quality Old Joker to share top spot in the Equitop GLME Puissance with fellow British challenger Alfie Bradstock, riding H. d’OR, and Ireland’s Michael Pender with Hearton du Bois Halleux.
A total of eight combinations began the maximum five-round contest, and five remained in contention – the eventual winners, plus Nick Benterman and Ireland’s Nano Healy, who both took bricks out of the giant red wall.
The top three, though, could not be separated as they showcased graceful, athletic and power jumping at its finest.
Holly Sets Her Heart on a Win
Holly Smith and Hearts Destiny – one of the most exciting partnerships in British showjumping – took centre-stage on day three at the Equerry Bolesworth International Horse Show.
The Leicestershire-based Nations Cup rider is a major contender for Great Britain selection in the European Championships later this summer.
Holly and Hearts Destiny were part of the British team at the World Equestrian Games in America nine months ago, which proved an important experience in their development as a combination.
And they underlined that quality by powering to victory in the Lord & Lady Equestrian four-star jump-off class, landing a £7,300 top prize.
Sixteen combinations progressed to a race against the clock, and Holly delivered a perfectly-judged round in 35.61 seconds, clipping 43 hundredths of a second off eventual runner-up Richard Howley’s time on Chinook.
Another richly-talented British rider Harriet Nuttall finished third aboard Galway Bay Jed, and fourth place went to Holland’s Patrick Lemmen on Ideaal.
Impressive Victory for Kerry and Wellington M
Kerry Brennan showcased all her experience to claim an impressive victory at the Equerry Bolesworth International Horse Show.
The Derbyshire rider has a proven and successful partnership with 16-year-old bay gelding Wellington M. And they proved it once again by winning the Carden Arms two-star, two phase 1.40metre class that attracted a bumper field of 67 combinations.
Kerry and Wellington M were the penultimate starters, but any pressure in the International Arena did not trouble them as a time of 33.35 seconds relegated Angela Thompson and Fremont VDL to second place, with Mark Armstrong and Juharah finishing third.
The neighbouring Castle Arena hosted the Gadget Refuge two-star, two phase 1.30metre, which went to American rider Mimi Gochman, riding Avoloma BH, in a time of 26.84 seconds.
Carmen Edwards finished second on Geodina HS, 1.57 seconds behind the winner, with Adam Botham and Zidane VIII finishing third.
The day’s opening two-star accumulator class was won by North Yorkshire’s Paul Barker with his experienced campaigner Happy Boy.
The accumulator format sees riders gain points for each fence jumped, up to a maximum score of 65, with times then separating tied combinations.
And Paul proved quickest in a highly-competitive class to edge out Jake Saywell and Touch of Chilli, with third place going to Nicole Pavitt and Victor Blue.
International Arena action swung into action with the Horse & Country TV CSI amateur bronze two-phase class, and it was prolific winner Tony Pearson who came up trumps.
The Windsor-based rider denied Joss Williams and Zandokan Z a second victory in two days by taking almost a second off Joss’ time of 31.10 seconds, as he triumphed aboard Amadeus M, and the podium places were completed by Michaela Wood on Lingala.
Teenager Eleanor Hall McAteer landed the Synetiq CSI amateur platinum two-phase, pipping Megan Li in an exciting battle for top spot.
Hertfordshire-based Eleanor, 17, won on Unex Arantos, clocking a time of 35.27 seconds, and Megan had to settle for second with Eclips van Eprekom, almost three seconds clear of third-placed Stacey Willsone, riding Newton Nickel.
Georgia Leads a British Clean Sweep
Georgia Tame produced a winning start for Great Britain on day three of the Equerry Bolesworth International Horse Show.
Sussex rider Georgia (pictured left) triumphed in the AC Jackson-sponsored four-star class against the clock, leading a clean sweep of the top five places by British riders.
Graham Babes and Glencoe had set the pace, clocking 60.90 seconds, but Georgia steered 8-year-old chestnut mare 27 Canya Dance home in a time of 59.74 seconds to take spot.
“She is a really fast horse, and I saw Graham, who went just before me, really gallop. His horse has a big stride,” Georgia said.”My horse doesn’t have such a big stride, so I had to keep it quite tight. I was quick over the first fence, and then really tight around to two, which was where she probably made up the time on Graham. It would certainly be her speciality type of class.”
Georgia has been based at Irish star Shane Breen’s facility for the last four-and-a-half years, and she has no doubt about the influence he has had on her riding career.
“He is such an amazing rider,” she added. “Just watching him, you learn so much. It has been a good season for me so far. We started off competing in Dubai, and had a couple of other trips abroad, and I love it at Bolesworth. I competed here last year, and it is such a great show. I am really looking forward to the next few days.”
Chloe Aston and Flavie van de Helle took third place in 60.94 seconds, with Jess Dimmock and Billy Fleance finishing fourth and Louise Saywell guiding Feigtling home in fifth spot.
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DAY TWO ROUNDUP
World-Class Performance Secures Win for Gemma
Gemma Tattersall produced a blistering world-class performance to win the Cazenove Capital Eventing Grand Prix at the Equerry Bolesworth International Horse Show.
Riding Santiago Bay, the Great Britain international star triumphed by a staggering eight-second margin over the course of showjumping and cross-country obstacles in Bolesworth’s International Arena.
The rest of a 19-strong field could only watch and admire, as the Sussex-based rider landed a £2,000 top prize and qualified for a place in the final at the Theraplate UK Liverpool International Horse Show later ths year.
A last-jump joker fence – which added or subtracted five seconds from the rider’s final time, depending on whether it was cleared or not – proved influential throughout, but Gemma flew it with ease.
Jay Halim and Abrisco finished second, with long-time leader Bill Levett taking third on Athleet V. The remaining two Liverpool places were filled by Emma Hyslop-Webb and Hannah Bate.
“It was a fantastic class,” said Gemma, who helped Britain to eventing team gold at the World Equestrian Games last September.
“It is my first time here at Bolesworth – I aim to be back for the young horse championship in August – and Santiago Bay is a very special horse. We have a great partnership. “She always says yes to every question, and I had a fantastic time in there. She gave me a great ride.
“I do quite a lot of showjumping as well as eventing, and so does this horse. She is very used to going against the clock, and I basically rode a showjumping round against the clock over cross-country fences, if that makes sense.
“She is a very fast horse, and we have got a great partnership. We are kind of on wheels, really, the pair of us. Every fence and line came up perfectly.”
The thrill-a-minute course was designed by Mark Phillips, who will also build the challenges for the Liverpool finalists in December.
“We saw some great sport,” he said. “This type of class takes the sport of eventing to a different audience, and I think it has a great role to play.
“Gemma was fantastic, wasn’t she? She is on flying form at the moment, and she continued it tonight.
“Liverpool will be a different type of competition. It is a smaller arena, and there won’t be so much galloping between the fences, but hopefully we can make it just as exciting.
“I only had 30 minutes to set the course up. When I go to other events,. I have got six months! Hopefully, we did a good job tonight.”
Jumping Gets Underway at Bolesworth International in Thrilling Fashion
Two-star jumping at the Equerry Bolesworth International Horse Show began in thrilling fashion on Thursday.
The 1.35metre two-phase competition saw the top three finishers separated by just four hundredths of a second. Dorset rider Yazmin Davis led for most of the class after clocking a time of 30.34 seconds with Zanbowa Z, but Surrey challenger Steven Franks clipped 0.01 off her time as he steered Abdul Aziz to victory.
Top international eventer Chris Burton, a former Burghley winner and British Open champion, finished third on Limited Edition in 30.37 seconds.
A busy day of action in the Castle Arena meant an early start for riders in the two-star 1.30metre two-phase class, and it was Cheshire rider Corinne Collins who took the honours.
Competitors who jumped clear on the first part of the course went straight into a jump-off section, with Corinne’s time of 29.28 seconds on Dolores P edging Angel Tough and Callumbus into second spot, just 59 hundredths of a second behind, while Carmen Edwards and Happy Valerie finished third.
Bolesworth’s International Arena staged the Jones Homes CSI amateur bronze jump-off competition, with 12 combinations making it through to a race against the clock. And there was an exciting finish, with last-to-go Joss Williams, from Lincolnshire, proving the quickest on 17-year-old gelding Zandokan Z in 30.31 seconds.
Their performance took more than a second off previous leader Jennifer Thimpson’s time aboard Britannicus, and the podium places were completed by American Caroline Ratigan, riding Gallicia.
The CSI amateur platinum one-round class, sponsored by John Deere by Turner Groundscare, went to seasoned campaigner Tony Pearson.
The Windsor rider claimed a commanding victory on Berlin, clocking 60.07 seconds, with Lauren Turnbull on Vip finishing second and Megan Li taking third on Eclips Van Erpekom.
Scintillating Dressage Double for Dujardin
Charlotte Dujardin delivered a scintillating dressage double on day two of the Equerry Bolesworth International Horse Show. And it meant that she completed a clean sweep of the three major classes – adding grand prix special and freestyle success to her grand prix victory on Wednesday.
Less than 24 hours after winning the grand prix, Charlotte returned to Bolesworth’s International Arena with Mount St John Freestyle and triumphed in the Theraplate UK Grand Prix Special. It was another assured display by the double Olympic individual champion in what was Mount St John Freestyle’s first event since last year’s World Equestrian Games in America. And like in the grand prix, they posted a personal best score as a combination, scoring 82.979%.
Charlotte’s mentor and trainer Carl Hester was also in impressive form aboard Hawtins Delicato, producing a fine test to finish on 78.936% for second, with Gareth Hughes and Classic Briolinca taking third and Henriette Anderson finishing fourth on Flavio. There was no stopping Charlotte in the Equitop Myoplast Grand Prix Freestyle to Music either, this time on 12-year-old gelding Erlentanz. They recorded a commanding score of 84.100% after a performance that oozed quaity and class, leaving them way clear of the field.
The chasing pack was led by Richard Davison and Bubblingh on 78.795%, while third place went to Denmark’s Ulrik Moelgaard and Michigan.
Reflecting on her achievements at Bolesworth, Charlotte said: “I am absolutely delighted with the performances.
“Mount St John Freestyle in the grand prix special, she tried so hard, and Erlentanz was an absolute pleasure to ride. Both horses couldn’t have done any more.
“I am really excited heading towards Tokyo, hopefully with Mount St John Freestyle, and some other horses in reserve to back me up as well.
“There is still more to come from Freestyle, and another year on heading towards Tokyo, fingers crossed, it should be very exciting. I definitely know she can cope with pressure and all sorts of environments.
“It’s a fantastic show at Bolesworth, riding in that international arena. It is an honour to be here with my horses and to compete here.”
The day’s opening dressage class – the NFU Mutual Prix St Georges Invitational – was won by Scottish rider Robyn Smith.
South Lanarkshire-based Robyn topped the leaderboard on Francesco 77, posting a score of 70.735%, with Canadian challenger Rakeya Moussa finishing second aboard Davidoff V.H. Trichelhof and third place going to Paul Friday, riding Haetins Horatio, who was also fourth on Romanno Rafiel.
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DAY ONE ROUNDUP
Carl and Brioso Take Centre Stage
British dressage star Carl Hester brought the curtain down on day one at the Equerry Bolesworth International Horse Show with a stylish victory.
Gloucestershire-based Carl, one of the sport’s biggest names, won the Intermediate 1 freestyle to music class, sponsored by British Dressage. Riding Brioso, a score of 78.520% saw him head up a 14-strong field, with Portugal’s Luis Principe taking second spot aboard R.S Raphael on 75.800%.
Jessica Dunn and Alicante Valley secured third with a score of 74.205%, just in front of fourth-placed Alice Oppenheimer and Headmore Davina on 74.165%.
Cheshire rider Sarah Higgins dominated the British Dressage Advanced Medium class, sponsored by Rawson Digital, as she continued a rich vein of form. Sarah, who is based an hour away from Bolesworth in Knutsford, finished first and second. She topped the leaderboard on 10-year-old gelding Elixer after posting a score of 70.526%, and filled the runners-up spot with Easter Bunny II on 68.947%. Third place went to Emma Woolley, riding Retro Hit, on 68.882%.
(Photo: Sarah Higgins and Elixer)
Charlotte’s in Irresistible Form at Bolesworth International
Double Olympic dressage champion Charlotte Dujardin was in irresistible winning form on day one of the Equerry Bolesworth International Horse Show.
It proved another thrilling showcase performance from Charlotte and the exciting 10-year-old mare Mount St John Freestyle – a horse that could take her all the way to next year’s Tokyo Olympics. They delivered a dominant display in the Theraplate UK Grand Prix, finishing on top by a considerable margin from fellow British rider Gareth Hughes, with Classic Briolinca.
Charlotte’s score of 80.348% included a perfect 10 score for the extended trot from British judge Jo Graham, and it was another impressive day’s work by a combination tipped in many quarters to reach the dressage summit. And to complete a memorable day for the London 2012 and Rio 2016 gold medallist, she also took third spot aboard another rising star Erlentanz.
Less than 0.2 of a percentage mark separated the riders in second, third and fourth, with fifth place going to Richard Davison and Bubblingh and Emile Faurie taking sixth on Cafe’s Caletta.
Reflecting on the grand prix, Charlotte said: “It was Mount St John Freestyle’s first event since the World Equestrian Games last September, and at the beginning of the test I was rushing her a little bit.
“But I was absolutely thrilled with her. She tries so hard, and there were so many highlights. Her canter work felt very solid, and she feels so much stronger than last year.
“She is still only 10, so has not got very much mileage, so to come here in this arena and perform the way she did, I am absolutely delighted.
“Erlentanz is a new ride this year, and I am really pleased with him. He’s such a genuine horse, so much fun to ride, and gives so much.”
Charlotte, who looks well on course to launch a major medal challenge at Tokyo 2020, has been a major supporter of dressage at Bolesworth.
“I love Bolesworth,” she added. “To be able to have a show like this in Britain is fantastic, and I have to thank the whole team at Bolesworth for setting it up.”
Lucinda and Hawtins Lirica get Bolesworth International Competition Underway
The Equerry Bolesworth International Horse Show began on Wednesday 12th June with dressage young horse finals.
Action got underway in the International Arena with the five-year-old final, sponsored by Owens Horseboxes, which was won by Lucinda Elliott and Hawtins Lirica.
Lucinda, who is from North Yorkshire, produced a stylish performance that gained a score of 81.800, with Dan Greenwood and SJL Baks Zacco taking second on 79.800 and Alex Hardwick finishing third aboard Joie De Vivre Prins.
Alex, from Bishop’s Stortford in Hertfordshire, returned to the arena to win the six-year-old final, sponsored by The Brooke.
It proved to be a close contest, with Alex guiding her mare Izaloe to victory on a score of 78.000, which proved enough to edge out Zoe Sleigh and For Rome – they finished on 77.800 – while Greg Sims and Waverley Dante completed the podium places on 77.400.
The seven-year-old final, sponsored by Brabners, completed a busy opening session, and it proved a closely-fought affair.
Elizabeth Allen, from Chew Magna near Bristol, took top honours with Heraldik on a score of 71.943, and Beth Bainbridge was runner-up aboard Habouche (70.343), while Tom Goode and Feine Schufro were third on 70.029.
(Photo: Alex Hardwick and Izaloe winning The Brooke Six Year Old)
Posted on June 10th, 2019
Take A Load Off!
If travelling causes stress for both you and your horse, then Redwings Horse Sanctuary may be able to help!
All are invited to attend the charity’s latest free evening of expert talks on Tuesday 2nd July, which will focus on how you and your four-legged friend can enjoy safer and happier journeys. Taking place at Redwings’ Aylsham visitor centre, north of Norwich, from 6.30pm, the charity’s Equine Behaviour Manager Sarah Hallsworth will be on hand to unpick common loading problems.
Sarah will also demonstrate some of the most effective techniques to help your horse happily up your box or trailer ramp, plus there will be top tips from Redwings’ own transport team on how to keep your four-legged passenger safe and relaxed on the road.
Andie Vilela, Redwings’ Education and Campaigns Manager, said: “With over 30 years’ experience of rescuing horses in need across the country, our teams have made an art of safely loading and transporting equines – some especially uncertain and nervous. There are, therefore, few problems they have not witnessed or overcome!
“With many owners looking to take their horses to events over the summer, our evening seminar is a great opportunity to take a fresh look at loading techniques and find out how you can help your horse feel more comfortable on the road.”
To secure your free place on the evening seminar, call 01508 481055 or email education@redwings.co.uk.
Posted on June 6th, 2019
Calling all budding equine artists!
To celebrate their brand-new PopUp shop in the city centre, Norwich Business Improvement District (BID) has teamed up with Redwings Horse Sanctuary to announce a fantastic colouring competition for children of primary age.
Budding young artists can download a picture of a horse or donkey from the following link: http://www.popupnorwich.co.uk/
From Saturday 8th June, a selection of the pictures will be on display at PopUp Norwich on Castle Meadow (formerly Maplin) which is open Monday to Saturday every week. Redwings currently has a store within the PopUp Norwich store as well as its permanent Norfolk visitor centres near Great Yarmouth and Aylsham. Full details can be found at www.redwings.org.uk/adopting.
Redwings Retail Manager Gareth Austin-Mills said: “We are loving being part of the PopUp shop in Norwich and now we will get to see all the fantastic artwork it’s generated too! We are so thankful to Norwich BID for all their support and we can’t wait to see those pictures!”
Martin Blackwell, Business and Operations Manager, Norwich BID said, “Popups have become a 21st century model for retailing, and we are excited to offer this opportunity to Norwich start-ups. PopUp Norwich provides a low cost and low risk opportunity for entrepreneurs to experiment and test the market.”
Anyone interested in how the Pop-Up space in Norwich can work can find further information at www.popupnorwich.co.uk
Posted on June 4th, 2019
Bury St Edmund’s Tim Davies wins the Connolly’s RED MILLS Senior Newcomers Second Round at Keysoe
A Connolly’s RED MILLS Senior Newcomers Second Round took place at The College Equestrian Centre, Keysoe in Bedfordshire recently and it was Tim Davies who took the honours.
With just two qualifying tickets available for the Connolly’s RED MILLS Senior Newcomers Championship Final, which will be held during Horse of the Year Show in October, all combinations were aiming for a treble clear. With an initial starting field of 100, course designer David Conway set a challenging track to whittle the numbers down to seventeen for the second round and seven for the third round. Just one combination could produce the goods to earn a treble clear.
Tim Davies from Bury St Edmunds in Suffolk piloted Lisa Volk’s Nielson Red, a 6-year-old Belgian bred gelding whom Tim has been competing since January, to victory setting the pressure with clear in a time of 44.51 seconds. Second placed Joe Trunkfield’s two rides were the only combinations to beat the time Tim had set crossing the finish line in 42.96 seconds but one fence down meant he and first ride Flipper Darco UK Z, an 8-year-old British bred owned by Caroline Philips, were relegated to the runner up spot.
Joe claimed third place with Gail Chapman’s Geronimo PC Z after faulting at the penultimate fence but crossing the line in 44.18 seconds. Fourth and fifth place were awarded to Phillip Miller aboard the Brendon Stud’s Klaris Yee-Hah and Colin Keeling with the Clements Equine owned Renkum Olinthos respectively.
The top two combinations secured their place in the Connolly’s RED MILLS Senior Newcomers Championship Final at Horse of the Year Show and the top five took home the chance to compete in the Connolly’s RED MILLS Senior Newcomers Masters at the British Showjumping National Championships.
Posted on June 3rd, 2019
Injured Jockeys Fund to benefit from ‘Ascot to Africa’ art exhibition
Artist Sophie Harden’s first solo exhibition, ‘Ascot to Africa’, will be taking place at a gallery in Belgravia, London, from 10th to the 16th June.
‘Ascot to Africa’ brings together Sophie’s passion for travel and horse racing in one contemporary space. The exhibition will display Sophie’s dynamic work on both the behind the scenes of racing and paintings produced from her recent trips to Kenya and Namibia in a beautiful gallery in London’s Belgravia, by kind permission of Grosvenor Estates.
Sophie’s Contemporary and fluid technique allows movement to flood the painting, from the explosive energy and grace of animals to the small details that capture a moment in time. Often using a contrast of white oil on bright background colours, Sophie works to accentuate the adaptation of light, making the viewer perceive a 3D object from often just small marks and brushstrokes.
The Injured Jockeys Fund are joining Sophie for an exclusive evening on June 13th where 30% from the sale of paintings purchased that evening will go to the charity.
Sophie says of the partnership; “I’m delighted to be supporting The Injured Jockey Fund which a very special evening on Thursday 14th June. The charity is such a worthy cause and close to the hearts of all those in and connected to racing.”
“I am incredibly excited to be showing my work in this solo exhibition, which promises to be bright and full of energy” she added.
