News
Posted on July 30th, 2019
HICKSTEAD: Allister Hood takes supreme honours at the Longines Royal International Horse Show
Norfolk’s Allister Hood claimed The British Horse Society Supreme Horse Championship at Hickstead with the remarkable cob Our Cashel Blue.
It was an eighth Hickstead supreme title for Allister, who has now clocked up more wins than any other rider in the history of the championship. It marks an incredible comeback for the pair – Allister suffered a heart attack last season, while Our Cashel Blue has returned to top form after the diagnosis and successful treatment of a rare form of cancer.
Hickstead is always happy hunting ground for the Diss-based Hood showing team. “It’s been a marvellous week, and this morning we’ve had an absolute red-letter day,” says Allister, whose team claimed six wins and a brace of placings through the week. Allister got an impressive score of 29 out of 30 from the panel of three judges, Holly Smith, Bob Ellis and Ann Brickell, to put him clear of Jayne Ross and her Saracen Horse Feeds Supreme Hunter champion Twinshock Warror in reserve with 25 points. Jayne also took third with the Brereton Supreme Hack champion Forgeland Hyde Park. As well as taking supreme honours, the team also produced a spectacular one-two in the Surrey Envelopes Supreme Cob Championship. Allister took the title with Our Cashel Blue, while son Oliver took the reserve spot with Master of the House.
Photo: Emily Gailey
Posted on July 30th, 2019
Upminster’s Allana Clutterbuck lands the final Equitop Myoplast Senior Foxhunter Second Round at Cherwell Competition Centre
Cherwell Competition Centre in Old Marston, Oxford saw the final Equitop Myoplast Senior Foxhunter Second Round of the season take place on Monday 29th July and sixty-nine combinations came forward for their last chance to gain a place in the Championship Final and it was Allana Clutterbuck who took the honours.
All combinations were desperately seeking one of the last two direct qualifying tickets on offer for the Equitop Myoplast Senior Foxhunter Championship Final at Horse of the Year Show in October. Course Designer Gillian Milner set a tough track that only twenty-nine combinations could conquer in the first round. Out of the twelve who made it through to the final jump-off, five jumped a treble clear meaning the clock played a pivotal part in deciding who had gained the tickets.
Allana Clutterbuck from Upminster, Essex steered Sally Lane’s 10-year-old French bred gelding Vykinbay to a treble clear in 40.54 seconds, 0.57 seconds faster than her closest rival Adrian Whiteway. Adrian rode Heathfield Merlin, a 9-year-old Irish bred gelding owned by Myles Browning, to the runners up spot and snatched the final direct qualifying ticket. They crossed the line in 41.11 seconds.
The top two combinations secured their place in the Equitop Myoplast Senior Foxhunter Championship Final at Horse of the Year Show and the top five took home the chance to compete in the Equitop Myoplast Senior Foxhunter Masters at the British Showjumping National Championships.
Allana Clutterbuck and Vykinbay competing in the Equitop Myoplast Senior Foxhunter Second Round Photo: Alison Parker Photography
Posted on July 25th, 2019
HICKSTEAD: Izabella puts her foot down
Chelmsford schoolgirl Izabella Rogers, 11, blazed her way to victory in the Equestrizone Winter 128cm Championship at the Longines Royal International Horse Show at Hickstead.
Riding her 16-year-old pony Whinney Lass, Rogers sped into an unsurpassable lead – despite the fact that she doesn’t consider herself a natural fast rider.
“I like keeping my ponies contained and calm, but if I have to, I’ll put my foot down,” she says with a smile. Rogers’ methodical and mature approach comes in part from Essex trainer Rosie Holder. Her tutelages means that Rogers can now celebrate two consecutive wins in this class. This year, though, the competition was even stiffer.
“Last year I didn’t have to do the jump-off because I was the only clear – this year there was a few more people, so it was a lot harder,” explains Rogers. “I was just watching every round thinking, ‘okay, so where do I go, what time do I have to beat?’ Going in, it was so tense, but she covers the ground a lot, so it was pretty easy.”
Although Rogers hasn’t yet started secondary school, she’s certain that her future will involve showjumping. With six ponies of her own at home, and a plethora of yard duties to fit around her schoolwork, she’s certainly well set up for success.
Photo: Emily Gailey
Posted on July 25th, 2019
What’s On: The Hurlingham Polo International Day on Saturday 27th July
The Hurlingham Polo International Day is the most anticipated annual polo spectacular and has always been one of the highest profile sporting events in the summer calendar. This year’s world-class day promises to be one of the standout social events of the year, with the Frasers England Polo Team playing the principal match against Argentina, in a bid to win The Coronation Cup.
Hurlingham Polo Association Chief Executive, David Woodd said; “We are delighted to be returning for the second Hurlingham Polo International at the Royal County of Berkshire Polo club and we look forward to the fast-paced action of the match between Argentina and Frasers England. You are guaranteed to see some of the best polo in the world when the two teams battle it out for the prestigious Coronation Cup on the 27th July”.
Once again there will be a ‘Through the Levels Dressage Masterclass’ delivered by critically acclaimed, five times Olympic British dressage rider, Carl Hester, MBE which is a wonderful follow on from last year’s triple Olympic Gold Medalist, Charlotte Dujardin CBE. Hester will be giving a rare UK masterclass as he demonstrates the training techniques which earned him his place on the world stage in Dressage. This move is part of a long-term strategy by the Club’s Chairman and professional polo player, Jamie Morrison, to bring the equestrian disciplines closer together and to encourage new audiences to immerse themselves in Polo.
The organisers have confirmed the continued support of Frasers, Paul & Shark, Flannels, Globe-Trotter, CNBC, FT How to Spend it, De Vere Hotels and Thai Polo.
The Hurlingham Polo International Day combines the worlds of fast paced test match polo with the international worlds of film, fashion, entertainment and society, alongside leaders and captains of industry. To experience the best view of the Polo match and gain access to players and VIPs, The 85 Club – named after the founding year of the Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club – offers world class hospitality. For those wishing to continue celebrations post Polo, the infamous After-Party will be hosted by a luxury London brand, soon to be announced, renowned for its iconic guestlist. This is where high society and rock star royalty alike will enjoy the biggest party in polo!
The event’s Shopping Village is without question a must-visit element of the day and welcomes an eclectic mix of exhibitors. From fashion, art and beauty to purveyors of the finest food and drink, there will be something for everyone.
All will be set within the surroundings of the Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club, across vast acres of lush English countryside.
Tickets are now on sale. For full information regarding tickets, hospitality and the event itself, visit: www.theinternationalday.com
Posted on July 25th, 2019
HICKSTEAD: Local rider wins national competition sponsored by Essex based Insurance company
Hockley’s Harry Bateman had an early victory in the Longines International Arena at Hickstead. Riding Teza Englefield’s Lex Lokoda, he took the spoils in Wednesday’s SEIB Winter Novice Championship, besting a strong field of 23 over the 1.25m track.
“I’m absolutely over the moon – the horse totally deserves it, and we love him,” enthuses Bateman, who only took the ride on a week before qualifying for the Longines Royal International Horse Show at the beginning of this year.
The 8-year-old gelding measures in at just 15.3hh and, at 8-years-old, he’s reasonably inexperienced too.
“He’s only little but he’s such a huge character. He’s a pocket rocket with an enormous stride,” says Bateman. “I said to Teza that I found the first round very backwards – it’s a little bit his nemesis because he’s got such a big stride and quite a lot of blood, so he loves to run. The jump-off suits him perfectly, but the first round – well, you’ve got to jump clear to get to the next bit. I think we’re quite similar in that sense.”
Englefield had her eye on the talented gelding from a young age – in fact, she was at his breeder’s yard on the day the horse was conceived and had broken his sire in years prior. Though she lost track of Lex Lokoda for a period of time, she jumped on the opportunity to purchase the horse when she found him for sale.
“I didn’t know he’d ever been sold, but when I saw him advertised I recognised the breeding – so I went in and beat everyone else to buying him,” she says. “Basically, I bought him sight unseen and totally untried. But he’s been a little star – he’s very popular and a lot of people enjoy following him. He’s got a heart as big as a lion.”
Bateman also finished third in the Champagne Cave Winter Grades B&C Championship, riding the 18hh Granby.
Photo: Emily Gailey
Posted on July 23rd, 2019
Celebrate Norfolk Day with Redwings!
Redwings – whose headquarters are based at Hapton, south of Norwich – has grown to become the UK’s largest horse sanctuary, caring for more than 1,500 rescued horses, ponies, donkeys and mules at its sites every day, and responsible for another 700 living in loving Guardian homes.
In celebration of its local roots, Redwings is offering those who travel to its two Norfolk visitor centres on Saturday 27th July special discounts in their gift shops and a chance to take part in a social media photography competition.
Redwings Aylsham, north of Norwich, and Redwings Caldecott, near Great Yarmouth – which together are home to over 200 rescued residents – will be offering a 25% discount on local products sold in their gift shops, including Norfolk Preserves, Gnaw chocolate and Norfolk Cordials, as well as artist Emma Ball’s Norfolk-inspired artwork. All proceeds from sales in the gift shops help to support the animals in Redwings’ care.
Visitors will also be challenged to photograph their day out and share their favourite snaps on social media, tagging in Redwings and using the hashtag #NorfolkDay. The talented photographer behind the winning image will receive a year’s free sponsorship of an Adoption Star horse or donkey living at either of the two centres.
On top of Norfolk Day celebrations, Redwings Aylsham and Redwings Caldecott will also be hosting family activities across the weekend as part of their programme of school holiday fun, including fascinating tours and special meets ‘n’ greets with some of the Sanctuary’s most characterful residents. And, best of all, entry is free!
Debbie Scott, Redwings’ Head of Fundraising, said: “We’re really looking forward to taking part in Norfolk Day once again! Over the last 35 years, Redwings has grown to become a national animal welfare charity and we’ve very proud to say it all started in Norfolk where we continue to have our headquarters.
“We are a charity funded entirely by donations from the public so we want to say a big thank you to the support of the people of Norfolk who have enabled us to grow and ensure we can continue to be there for horses in need.
“Norfolk Day is a lovely way for the county to showcase its wonderful history, people, innovation and attractions, so we hope as many people as possible will take the opportunity to find out a little more about Redwings and our part in the Norfolk story, enjoy meeting some of our gorgeous four-legged residents and – fingers crossed – win a fantastic prize too!”
Redwings Aylsham, in Spa Lane, Aylsham, NR11 6UE, and Redwings Caldecott, in Beccles Road, Fritton, NR31 9EY, are open daily throughout the school summer holidays, from 10am to 4pm. Entry is free and dogs on leads are welcome.
For further information, head to www.redwings.org.uk/visiting.
Posted on July 23rd, 2019
Celebrate with Family and Friends at the Theraplate UK Liverpool International Horse Show
The organisers of this year’s spectacular TheraPlate UK Liverpool International Horse Show, 28th to 31st December have launched an exciting new initiative for clubs and associations or even just a group of friends.
When groups, clubs and associations get together to buy 10 or more tickets in one transaction, they will receive 20% off.
For larger groups of 20 or more a fantastic 25% saving is being offered with a free ticket for the organiser of the party.Both discounts are applicable to general admission tickets Bronze, Silver and Gold – excluding family tickets.
Show President Nina Barbour said: “Whether you are a group of friends or family, Riding Club or Pony Club, livery yard, stables or RDA group, it is a great opportunity to get together in the festive period and enjoy some world-class sport, explore the great new bar and food offering and have fun alongside team mates, friends and colleagues.”
The four evening and two afternoon performances at the M&S Bank Arena on the city’s historic waterfront are set to deliver spectators another equestrian extravaganza building up to a New Year’s Eve celebration like no other.
Now in its fifth year the show gets better and better with its turbo-charged atmosphere that will have you sitting on the edge of your seat; including new act ‘Electric Storm’ .
As well as fantastic show jumping and the finals of the exhilarating Eventing Grand Prix there will be plenty to keep the whole family enthralled with the popular Shetland Pony Grand National and legendary band The KINGS.
Rocking the arena with their unique blend of music The KINGS are guaranteed to have the audience up and dancing at the M&S Bank Arena.
The band has played all over the world alongside some of the biggest names in music, including Eric Clapton, The Script and Status Quo.
To book your group please contact the Bolesworth show office on (01829) 307676.
For further information on what’s on visit www.liverpoolhorseshow.com
Posted on July 23rd, 2019
Suffolk’s Emma Smith announced as HOYS Superfan!
Horse of the Year Show are pleased to announce the details of six ‘HOYS Superfans’ who will be working with the show that is held at the Resorts World Arena, NEC Birmingham from 2nd – 6th October 2019.
Each ‘Superfan’ completed an extensive application process and have been selected based on their enthusiasm, knowledge and love for the show that they will be sharing with visitors prior to this years’ event, and one of those Superfans is in fact Suffolk’s Emma Smith.
Emma has her own link which is individual to her, and if she manages to generate the most HOYS ticket sales before 31st August 2019 she will be crowned the ultimate HOYS Superfan and will be invited to spend a day backstage with the Press Team at HOYS and show ambassador, Hannah Eccles. This will involve working alongside well-known equestrian journalists, interviewing riders, capturing elements of the show for social media, and gaining first hand experience of the organisation behind one of the biggest horse shows in the UK. To end the day, the winner – plus one very lucky friend – will be invited to enjoy the evening performance with full hospitality in the Andrews Bowen International Arena.
Meet the Superfan – Emma Smith
Age: 34
Location: Suffolk
“At a young age, I came to HOYS to buy my hat with my birthday money, dreaming of riding in those rings.
Nearly 20 years later, my dream came true and the wait was worth every second. The desire to do it again is infectious! But it’s more than just qualifying that gives me my passion.
Horses provide me with the enjoyment and love at the end of a difficult day, that every horse lover can relate to.
I look forward to supporting HOYS 2019 where we celebrate our wonderful relationship with such a beautiful animal.”
Support Emma and purchase your tickets here:
https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=7180&awinaffid=621063&p=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.theticketfactory.com%2Fhoys%2Fonline%2F
Photo: Loxland Amazing Grace (Gracie), an 8-year-old New Forest and on the right is Popsters Masterclass (Harry), 18-year-old Welsh Section D
Posted on July 17th, 2019
Countryfile to Salute RDA in its 50th Anniversary Year
BBC Countryfile is to honour RDA in its 50th anniversary year with a programme dedicated to the charity and its work. The episode, which airs on Sunday 28th July, includes an interview by with RDA’s President, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, conducted by broadcasting legend and long-time Countryfile presenter John Craven.
The interview was filmed on the opening day of the RDA National Championships at Hartpury College, Gloucestershire, where presenters John Craven and Anita Rani spent an enjoyable day with some of the events 500 competitors, as well as volunteers and family members.
The Gloucestershire-themed episode features seven-year-old RDA rider Lily McKay and her mum, Alison. Lily rides at Patchwork RDA in Nailsworth. In an emotional interview, Alison explains how RDA has helped Lily and how proud she is of her achievements.
Championships competitor, Tracey Thomas, who rides at Talland RDA in Cirencester, also features in the programme as she prepares for the competition. The crew then followed her to Hartpury to find out how she gets on in the Countryside Challenge competition.
As well as featuring RDA’s golden anniversary, the episode also marks a milestone for John Craven, who is celebrating an astonishing 30 years of presenting the BBC’s flagship rural programme.
RDA Communication’s Manager, Caroline Ward said: “We are delighted that the BBC have thrown their support behind RDA by giving us this opportunity to feature on Countryfile. We are also grateful to Her Royal Highness for agreeing to be interviewed as part of the programme. It was a joyful day at the Championships and I hope that viewers will enjoy celebrating our 50th anniversary with us.”
The programme themed Gloucestershire airs on BBC 1 on July 28th.
Posted on July 9th, 2019
Bolesworth Young Horse Champs – for just £5.00 and FREE Car Parking
The new Equitop Bolesworth Young Horse Championship Show looks set to provide a feast of sporting action and entertainment.
With a host of high-class show jumping and equestrian sport over the five days – 14th to 18th August in the stunning grounds of Bolesworth Castle – the event will provide a fantastic day out for equestrian sport enthusiasts
Tickets are now on sale at just £5 with free parking, when booked in advance online, giving event goers the chance to watch superb competition in an iconic setting.
Bolesworth have teamed up with TheraPlate UK, to give members of British Eventing, British Dressage, or British Showjumping the once in a lifetime chance to win British bred mare Bolesworth Havana, by Arkol out of a top jumping mare, coupled with a K21 TheraPlate.
Everyone purchasing a Golden Ticket for £30 or £50 for two, will gain free entry to the show on a day of their choice.
Entries for the show are now open and filling fast for what promises to be an event to remember in the Cheshire sporting calendar.
With a great selection of equestrian and lifestyle shopping there is plenty to keep everyone entertained throughout the day and into the evening. Why not enjoy a day out with friends and family, catch all the action from the fun Mini Major class or watch the heart stopping Theraplate UK Puissance.
The Equitop Bolesworth Young Horse Championships, will incorporate the Official British Showjumping Young Horse Championships and qualifiers for the World Breeding Federation for Sport Horses (WBFSH) Championships, held at Lanaken in September.
These will run alongside CSI** and CSIAm International classes with the young horses all having the chance to experience jumping in the amphitheatre-style International Arena with the atmosphere of a true world-class competition.
Other highlights of the show will include the second leg of Bolesworth’s new Eventing Grand Prix series, an Elite Stallion Showcase, and two new Elite Auctions.
General Admission Tickets are now on sale or why not enjoy the show from the fantastic setting of hospitality complete with evening entertainment, premium bars and superb viewing. Onsite camping is also available and can be booked online.
To book your tickets visit www.bolesworthyounghorse.com.
