News
Posted on October 31st, 2019
SEIB Insurance Brokers to grant £50,000 to good causes in 2020
The third annual running of the SEIB Insurance Brokers Charity Awards will result in £50,000 being granted to good causes in 2020. SEIB will grant £25,000 to one winning charity and the remaining £25,000 will go to six runners-up. All winning charities will be nominated by the general public and then voted for by customers of SEIB. The grants will be presented to the winning charities at the SEIB Charity Awards luncheon on the 20th March 2020 at the Leonardo Royal London City Hotel.
The public are invited to put their nominations forward for the charity they would like to see win the top £25K prize. Nominations are open now and will close on the 28th November. Once a shortlist of charities has been drawn up, SEIB clients will have the final vote for their favourite project. The winning charity and runners up will be announced at the 2020 SEIB Charity Awards luncheon.
SEIB Chief Executive Officer Barry Fehler explained: “At SEIB we firmly believe in contributing to the common good. I was very proud when we held our first charity awards in 2018 and I am delighted that we are able to be once again granting money to the causes that really matter to our loyal customers. The feedback we have had from recipients of our previous grants is humbling.”
The winners of the 2019 SEIB Charity Awards, World Horse Welfare, have been very quick to voice their thanks for their project of ‘vital new equipment’. The SEIB charity grant paid for a new tractor and trailer at World Horse Welfare’s Penny Farm and drone with a high-res camera to help locate horses in hard to reach areas.
World Horse Welfare’s Field Officer, Rachel Andrews said: “The drone has been invaluable recently in Snowdonia National Park. There were significant concerns regarding a group of up to 30 wild ponies and as the terrain was extremely difficult underfoot, the drone enabled us to locate these ponies so that we could access them from the nearest track. This meant reduced stress for the ponies and it means that we can continue to monitor them over the winter when they will be even more difficult to access.”
Always known for ‘putting something back’, SEIB is a commercial business with a charitable purpose. The company insures numerous charities and not for profit organisations. SEIB is an independent broker but is ultimately owned by a charity called the Allchurches Trust Limited and profits are used for good causes. The aim of SEIB’s immediate owner, the Ecclesiastical Insurance Office Plc, aims to give £100million for good causes through the Allchurches Trust by 2020.
No charity is too small to be in the running for the 2020 SEIB charity giving, but turnover is capped at £15m. The grant will have to be used for a specific project which will make a true difference to the cause it is aimed at. All charities will need to be UK registered and projects are to be UK based but past winners will not be eligible.
Giving is embedded in the culture of SEIB. From supporting grass roots competition that gives opportunities to amateur riders that they could only otherwise dream about, right through to the company’s long-term support of research carried out by the Animal Health Trust.
To find out more and to nominate your favourite charity please visit: www.seib.co.uk/giving
Photo: WHW L to R Barry Fehler, Roly Owers, Suzy Middleton, Emma Williams and Bipin Thaker
Posted on October 29th, 2019
Showing Judges announced for Horse of the Year Show 2020
The 2020 Horse of the Year Show will take place from Wednesday 7th – Sunday 11th October, with the first qualifier taking place in spring. Here is a list of the judges for HOYS 2020:
The M&M Ridden Pony of the Year judges will be released later this autumn while changes to the class format are discussed.
Posted on October 29th, 2019
Peaceful gathering of horses and riders in Shouldham Warren
Local riders braved the wet weather recently to show their support for the #sorrynoquarry campaign
Riders both mounted and on foot gathered together on Saturday 26th October to add their voices to the campaign to save Shouldham Warren from the threat of a quarry. The Warren is a popular place for riders with many travelling from outlying areas to enjoy the wonderful scenery. It’s one of the few places in this part of Norfolk where riders can meet and ride together without worrying about having to navigate busy roads.
Vikki Muller a horse owner from King’s Lynn who attended with her family said, “We have attended this peaceful protest to show people how much we care about the Warren. We use it regularly to ride our horses in safety and also to walk our dog in this beautiful woodland.”
Sally McCall another horse owner said, “ I came because the Warren is an amazing place of natural beauty where I feel safe to ride my young horse without the danger of riding on the roads with fast traffic and lorries.”
Jenny Simpson from Brook Farm Liveries, who organised the event, said, “This is a beautiful place, full of wildlife and popular with riders, walkers, cyclists and families. It provides safe off-road riding for so many and it is unfathomable that this ancient woodland environment is under threat from the Norfolk County Council mineral and waste plan, particularly given the climate crisis we now face. We wanted to do something to add our voices to the campaign run by CATSS (Campaigners against two silica sites Marham/Shouldham), and so we are standing together with fellow riders to say ‘sorry no quarry’. At a time where road accidents involving horses and riders are on the rise, protecting safe off-road public access spaces such as the Warren is so important. The fact that so many people came despite the awful weather just goes to prove how strongly we feel about preserving this place for the future.”
A British Horse Society Spokesperson said “It is vital that we are able to secure a safe and substantial off-road network for the future generations. Many equestrian routes are fragmented and can now only be reached using busy roads. Our research has shown that there have been over 3,737 road incidents reported to us since November 2010, which involved the deaths of 315 horses and 43 riders. Therefore the need for off-road places to ride has never been so important. The British Horse Society launched Project Jigsaw with the aim of enabling every rider and carriage driver to access a safe network of off-road paths. We are aiming to tackle the issue of our limited and fragmented routes, and connecting them to build a full and complete picture.”
The deadline for lodging objections to the inclusion of Shouldham Warren in the Norfolk County Council plan is 5pm at 30th October and it’s not too late to get involved. There is an online petition, an electronic objection form and several letter templates on the CATSS website www.norfolkcatss.co.uk along with lots more information.
Posted on October 22nd, 2019
Christmas Comes to Bransby Horses
Lincolnshire-based equine rescue and welfare charity, Bransby Horses, has a number of great events and activities planned for the festive season. The schedule, which includes a new enchanting Christmas Lights Switch On, is sure to get families into the spirit.
The charity’s first ever Christmas Lights Switch On will take place on Friday 29th November. The focal point, a stunning Christmas tree, will be in the Visitor Centre Courtyard of the site. The Christmas Lights Switch On will start at 4pm on – 29th November with the Westgate Academy School singing Christmas carols and the big lights switch on moment will take place at 5pm with special guests Cinderella and Buttons from Lincoln Drill Hall doing the honour. As well as the lights and carols, there will also be plenty of mulled wine, hot chocolate, mince pies, donkeys and the chance to start your Christmas shopping in the Gift Shop until 7pm.
Charlie McClelland, Fundraising Manager at Bransby Horses said about this new event: “It will be the best Christmas event ever with the sights, sounds and aromas of the festive season. Our tree will stand proudly and twinkle as all Christmas trees should and carol singers and hot spiced drinks will fill the air with everything you think of at this special time of year. To add to that, our charming donkeys will be close by, peeking over their stable doors to be part of the fun. We can’t imagine a better way to start this season of merriness!”
The charity is also holding their annual Christmas Fair on Saturday 7th December 11am – 4pm, with plenty for families to see and do. There will be a wide variety of craft and gift stalls which offer a perfect opportunity to get some very special gifts for loved ones. Father Christmas will arrive with his donkey friends, Harrowby Singers Amateur Dramatic Society will be singing festive songs and hits from well-known musicals and there will also be festive activities throughout the day. The Feedroom Café will also be serving some warm and spiced treats, so you can taste and smell Christmassy things as you wander around the site, seeing hundreds of horses, ponies, donkeys and mules the charity has rescued and rehabilitated over the years.
Seasonal activities are sure to book up quickly so the charity is operating a first come, first served basis on any activities that require advanced booking. As well as the special activities and events the charity are putting on between now and the end of the year, there is also more than 400 horses, ponies, donkeys and mules to meet every day at the site, picturesque walkways, The Feedroom Café and play areas for children. The charity site is open to visitors 362 days each year, from 9am – 4pm.
Vicky Varney, Events Coordinator at Bransby Horses said: “Families from near and far visit us throughout the year but we think there is something super special about Halloween and Christmas. When the nights are drawing in and we’re all getting wrapped up with coats and scarves, we’re all looking for ways to embrace this magical season, get outdoors and celebrate the year!”
Activities start from free of charge to £12 per person, please check the Bransby Horses website www.bransbyhorses.co.uk and Facebook page ‘Bransby Horses – Rescue and Welfare’ for details. Entry to the site is free but as a charity, relying entirely on public support, donations of any amount are very welcome and go towards the cost of care of the 430 horses, ponies, donkeys and mules living on site.
The charity are also looking for sponsors to help support specific elements of their seasonal events, for more information, contact the Events team by emailing events@bransbyhorses.co.uk
Posted on October 17th, 2019
Bicton International Horse Trials (Thursday, 24th – Sunday, 27th October)
Members of the public are warmly invited to attend the Bicton Arena International Horse Trials this month (October 24th -27th) and watch world class riders and Tokyo 2020 hopefuls go head-to-head.
Around 600 riders are expected to compete at the UK’s final major international event of the eventing season which will include dressage, show jumping and cross-country action.
Riders and spectators can expect to witness top-level riding every day. All the international dressage classes will take place on the Friday, with show jumping, cross-country and the remaining dressage classes featuring on the other three days.
Bicton Arena manager Helen West has been at the helm of the Westcountry’s finest venue since 2013 and recently became the second woman in Britain to achieve accreditation as a three and four-star cross-country course designer; the International Federation for Equestrian Sports’ highest possible accreditation in Europe held by only a handful of people in the UK. Having already assisted with the design of several CIC(3*) courses, Helen designed her first CIC(4*) course at Ballindenisk, Ireland in September.
A professional rider of 14 years, Helen is committed to raising Bicton Arena’s profile and establishing a three-star cross-country event at the venue in the future. She said: “Our International Horse Trials is one of our most prestigious events of the season and really thrilling to watch.
“We have several Olympic riders competing, many of whom will be hoping to compete in the Tokyo Games next summer, and other riders hoping to make their Olympics debut. We have a high-profile roll-call of top-level riders travelling down to Bicton for this event, some of whom are entering as many as five or more horses, so they’ll be plenty of opportunity to catch them in action.
“We are keen to encourage the public to come along and see some of the world’s best riders and enjoy the setting – it’s not very often you get to see so many top-level sportspeople compete on your doorstep.”
Owned by Clinton Devon Estates, Bicton Arena occupies 156 acres of Grade 1 listed parkland and attracts around 10,000 horses and 20,000 riders and spectators annually. Bicton is currently one of only two venues in the country to host international horse trials as well as top-level show jumping and dressage competitions.
On the Saturday, the Protexin three-day BE100 roads and tracks section will take place up on the beautiful Pebblebed Heaths which surround the Arena. Bicton is the only affiliated BE event to run a long format three-day event at this level, aimed at the amateur rider.
Beccy Barrett, Events and Sponsorship Coordinator for Bicton Arena, added: “All the riders are keen to end the season on a high, so spectators are in for an exciting few days.”
Entry to the event is £10 per car. There will be trade stands and food outlets available as well as a bar. From 7.30pm on the Saturday, members of the public are invited to join the riders in the marquee for PURE Estate Management’s end of season party featuring a live band. Tickets, which can be bought on the door, are £10 and include a hog roast supper and a welcome drink.
Posted on October 14th, 2019
Stratford Hills Announces 2020 Charity and Dates
The Stratford Hills Horse Trials committee are pleased to announce the Charlie Watkins Foundation as its 2020 charity. With next season’s dates confirmed as the 13th and 14th June, the event will enter its eighteenth year of running and aims to raise more funds for local charities.
The 2020 charity intends to support the provision of mental health services to young people in the UK. Charlie Watkins was just 22 when he took his own life in March 2017. Sadly, Charlie never recovered from the tragic loss of his mother when he was nine years old. Charlie is one of the many examples of young people who suffer from mental health issues. The Charlie Watkins Foundation aims to raise funds to support young people struggling with mental health issues and encourages them to talk and remove the stigma of mental health.
The foundation was set up by Harry Watkins, Charlie’s twin brother, in September 2017. The aim is to accelerate the provision of counselling for young people and to support the lobbying for support at both regional and national level.
“The SHHT committee all have children and are very aware of the mental health issues surrounding young people today. We therefore welcome the chance to support a local charity which is offering a chat line to anyone who is suffering from anxiety or any other problems” commented organiser Gillie Cranfield.
2019 saw the event run with one of its smallest fields but attracted much praise from riders of all levels. Benefitting from the extensive rain, that caused other events to abandon, the Suffolk event ran with the best ground they had ever seen.
“A truly lovely event with really good terrain that makes for an exciting and proper cross-country course. We were super happy with the outcome as we made a plan to come here and everything went to plan. The organisation and the volunteers were just brilliant and we’re already looking forward to coming back next year.” Francis Whittington
Regular visitor to Stratford Hills, Matthew Heath would also encourage other riders to make the journey to the Suffolk venue.
“I really don’t know why more people don’t support Stratford Hills, it is one of the friendliest and accommodating events on the circuit with easy access straight off a main road. The courses are great with the hills presenting a good challenge. There is always a good grass cover and this year was the best ground I’d ever seen. I’ve been coming for a number of years and will continue to make the effort to come, no matter where I’m based.”
Posted on October 14th, 2019
Halloween Half Term at Bransby Horses
Bransby Horses has a wonderful week of spooky and slime-tastic activities this half term.
The equine rescue charity has been increasing their activity offering this year and October half term is filled with daily activities for all ages. Halloween Spook Walks each day draw you into stories of ghosts and ghouls, whilst you meander around fields and paddocks. If you want to get arty, Creative Halloween Crafts might be for you, where you can make your own Halloween mask, spiders web or let your creepy creative juices run wild with your own imagination.
Young witches and wizards can take part in Wand Making or Potion and Slime Making, creating your own wand or potion, ready for Halloween night. The charity also have two Halloween Fun Days on the 26th and 27th October, with lots of great things to do and see, including a performance of the Julia Donaldson classic, Room on the Broom.
As well as a choice of activities during the week, the charity has hundreds of rescued and rehabilitated horses, ponies, donkeys and mules to meet as well as play areas and a café called The Feedroom which has hot and cold food and drinks including a selection of delicious cakes. To visit the site is free but the charity welcome donations as they are 100% publicly funded. Activity prices range from free to £12 per person.
Please check www.bransbyhorses.co.uk or the Bransby Horses – Rescue and Welfare Facebook page for details.
Posted on October 8th, 2019
Banish the Winter Blues!
Redwings Horse Sanctuary is offering a free evening of vet talks for horse owners full of advice on how to keep their four-legged friends healthy and safe this winter.
The evening seminar will take place at Redwings Aylsham, north of Norwich, on Tuesday 29th October from 6.30pm.
Head of Veterinary Care, Nicky Jarvis, will be sharing her top tips for looking after horses through the colder months, from common seasonal ailments and winter weight management, to supporting older equines and those with ongoing health problems.
There will also be a chance to hear the latest research into when to rug and not to rug a horse, with recent findings suggesting that over-rugging can have a real impact on a horse’s welfare.
Helen Whitelegg, Senior Campaigns Officer, said: “Winter can be hard work for horse owners and often brings its own horse health challenges. Redwings cares for horses of all ages and breeds so our vets have unrivalled knowledge and experience when it comes to ensuring equines stay happy and safe, whatever the weather.
“We hope as many horse owners as possible will be able to come along to hear our top tips and advice so they’ll be ready for whatever this winter has in store!”
Free places on the seminar can be booked in advance by calling 01508 481055 or emailing education@redwings.co.uk.
Redwings Aylsham is located in Spa Lane, Aylsham, Norfolk, NR11 6UE.
Posted on October 8th, 2019
An Essex schoolgirl has hosted part of a tour at The National Stud after winning a Discover Newmarket competition.
Fourteen-year-old Paige Peacock from Saffron Walden was named the tourism hub’s official Junior Tour Guide after showing a passion for horseracing in her entry to their competition. Judges were also impressed that she volunteers and educates visitors at her school farm.
Paige received some top tips from Discover Newmarket guide Larry Bowden before relating some interesting facts during a group tour of The National Stud. Larry was the only guide in East Anglia to be shortlisted for VisitEngland’s Tourism Superstar 2019 Award.
Paige commented: “I loved seeing the foals and the retired legends – giving a polo to a Gold Cup winner was very exciting! Everything Larry said was so interesting and everyone on the tour was hooked on every word. He gave me lots of confidence which meant I was able to say far more than I thought I would. The whole experience showed me there is so much more to racing than being a jockey. I can’t wait to be old enough to do the Stud Diploma and definitely want to make a career for myself in the racing industry.”
Discover Newmarket’s Manager, Tracey Harding, added: “Paige’s love of horses came across and she clearly understands that enthusiasm is such an important part of being a tour guide and public speaking in general. We look forward to welcoming many more young people to our family-friendly attractions in Newmarket during Half Term week later this month to help inspire the next generation of racing fans.”
The National Stud is home to impressive stallions, potential superstars of the future and retired racing legends including Jack the Giant and Lord Windermere. Children can visit free with a Blue Peter badge and are given fun quiz sheets to complete as they tour the 500-acre stud farm.
Along with The National Heritage Centre for Horseracing and Sporting Art at Palace House and free entry for children at Newmarket Racecourses on Wednesday 23rd October, Newmarket is a great place for family outings.
Discover Newmarket’s host of educational tours give visitors the opportunity to go behind the scenes of the sport’s training and breeding operations to meet the organisations, trainers, equine stars and dedicated workforce.
Posted on October 7th, 2019
HOYS 2019 Local Roundup
Steve Dent Stunt Harness Horse and Pony of the Year Championship
Yorkshire-based driver Neil Wray clung on to his title as the Steve Dent Stunt Harness Horse and Pony of the Year Champion for the second year running with the eight-year-old black stallion, Plains Royalty.
Out of fifteen turnouts in the class, eight were pulled forward by Judges Mary Ford and Justin Cowles, who then whittled it down to their final two; Neil driving Plains Royalty, along with 2014 and 2015 champion, Jessie Dudley Apicella driving Aghaderg Stand and Deliver. Eventually the hand went in Neil’s favour to be crowned champion for the second consecutive year.
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Saving the best until last in the British Showjumping Silver League Championship
Raising the bar and claiming victory in the British Showjumping Silver League Championship was Cambridgeshire-based Stacey Cook riding her stunning 13-year-old bay gelding, Gigant.
It was very close on the leader board as the final competitors took to the arena, each one bettering the previous round. Saving the best until last, Stacey stormed down to the final fence, jumping into the lead and taking the Champion title.
Stacey’s win rounded off a successful year for her as she also won the National Winter Silver League Championship at the British Showjumping Spring Championships in April this year with her homebred Ninola. Speaking of her win on day one at Horse of the Year Show, Stacey said: “We have had such a great season. Having just come back from having a baby I couldn’t believe it when I qualified both of my horses for HOYS in the same year. I decided to let him [Gigant] have the limelight because the other one [Ninola] won the winter league. He is so consistent and a lovely mover. I’ve owned him for eight years now and have produced him myself so it’s so rewarding that he keeps on giving.”
Stacey fits in her training with the horses around her day job working as an equestrian instructor, making her fully invested in the equestrian industry.
She adds: “I hadn’t seen anyone else’s round or even heard how they had got on so I went in a bit blind, but I just wanted to do the best we could and was quite surprised when they said we had won the class. I’m so pleased with him. I think next year we will try some 1.40s and see how we get on
Photo: 1st Class Images
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Addington Equestrian 2019 Ltd Talent Seekers incorporating the Brightwells 7-year-old Championship
Rounding off day one of Horse of the Year Show in style, the audience in the Andrews Bowen International Arena were treated to an extraordinary result in the final class of the day and another ‘first’ with a two-way tie in the Addington Equestrian 2019 Ltd Talent Seekers Championship.
Jay Halim and Tim Davies congratulated one another on their joint win in a time of 31.23 seconds, both sharing the same sentiment of gratitude.
Tim from Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk was last to go in the jump off riding 8-year-old chestnut gelding, Lionel Van De Markieslanden, owned by Barrett Watson. “It’s an honour to share the win with Jay; I watched his round and noted his time. My horse is quick but when I looked up at the clock I knew straight away that we’d drew. He’s the perfect person to share it with though and I’m really pleased for him. I jumped the horse here last year and he was very careful, you just never quite know how they are going to react in the arena. I mainly compete here in England producing young horses so it means a lot to win a big Championship here at Horse of the Year Show. I’ve had him since he was four years old and he was a tricky horse but I knew he’d come good. To come here and win with him is just incredible.”
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An Incredible 1-2 for Daisy Williams in the Blue Chip Pony Newcomers Championship
Daisy Williams made her first time at Horse of the Year Show one to remember, taking both first and second place with her two ponies, Bermudez BDA and King III respectively.
The Lincolnshire-based teenager, who celebrates her 14th birthday next week, got an early birthday surprise when she took to the Andrews Bowen International Arena on day two at Horse of the Year Show. As first to jump in the seven pony jump off, she cleared a textbook round aboard Bermudez BDA. The pair set an unbeatable time of 31.60 seconds, fighting off close competition from the other riders to maintain her lead throughout.
With two ponies in the jump off, Daisy was last to go with her second ride, King III, and only had herself to beat. Showing experience beyond her years, Daisy rode another expertly ridden course and flew down to the last fence to finish in 31.67 seconds allowing her to take that second-place position.
With the biggest smile on her face, Daisy commented afterwards: “I can’t quite believe that just happened. I was so nervous going in and I just hoped for the best. Billy [Bermudez BDA] is only 6-years-old and hasn’t done many jump offs and I was surprised how fast we went. When I went in again with King, I didn’t even realise that I was in the lead until I heard the commentator on my approach to the first fence and I just couldn’t stop smiling. It is my first time at HOYS and it is such a dream come true to even be here, let alone to win. I came here a few years ago as a visitor and it just gave me the bug and motivation to get training with the ponies. They have both qualified for the Pony Foxhunter Championship on Saturday so I can only hope that they jump just as well in that.”
Both ponies are owned by Daisy’s mother Jill Williams and are apparently like chalk and cheese: “Billy gets into the arena excitable and raring to go, whereas King is a bit more reserved and waits for you to tell him what to do. They are both incredible ponies and I am so thankful to my trainers Kyle Hassle and Kelly Aldous for all of their support.”
Photo: 1st Class Images
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A new champion crowned in the Equitop Myoplast Senior Foxhunter Championship
Hertfordshire’s Simon Crippen finally had his day, taking the Equitop Myoplast Senior Foxhunter Championship riding Tim Peake’s 7-year-old gelding, Premier Titanium, at Horse of the Year Show 2019. Often described as the class everyone wants to win, Simon has been placed in the Championship many times, coming closest in 2010 when he took second place with Wembley III.
The Foxhunter Championship started in 1954, it is one of the longest standing Championships at HOYS and its popularity is down to it showcasing the very best of the country’s novice horses. Taking home the highly-coveted Foxhunter goblet after a difficult course, Simon was thrilled with his win finishing on a time of 38.51 seconds. He commented: “Tonight everything went my way. I had a funny feeling today that we would do well, and I was 13th to go which is my lucky number. I’ve been placed in this class a lot over the years, so to finally win was a fantastic feeling.”
Paul Barker and Matt Sampson, two riders known on the circuit for being quick in jump offs, were first in but their tight twisty turns cost them unfortunate penalties, leaving the field wide open to the other combinations.
Simon continues: “Seeing the previous riders pick up faults, I decided to ride a steadier round and aim for clear, then hope it might be just enough. It was a nice smooth round and flowed well. Luckily it paid off and I’m delighted.” Simon’s last big win at HOYS was in 1998 aged just 17 when he won the Senior Newcomers Championship riding Divine Des Cabanes owned by Judy Ross. Today, over 20 years later, he is back on top form with a talented young horse.
“Premier Titanium is a really good horse; I think he could be a real star. I’ve been riding him for just over two years now and although he has been tricky to produce, he shows great talent. He was a stallion up until this summer and having him gelded has really helped him to focus which has enabled us to progress quickly over the last few months. To win this traditional stepping stone class feels extremely special.”
Runner up in the class and placing second was this year’s Burghley Horse Trials winner, Pippa Funnell, who last rode at HOYS in 2011 winning the Senior Newcomers riding Billy Balou. With two rides in the class, Pippa’s second place was with 7-year-old mare, Billy Picador, who produced a beautiful double clear just outside of the time, finishing on 40.40 seconds.
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Essex’s Cash takes Reserve title
Five-time HOYS Working Hunter Pony winner, Cashel Bay JJ (Cash), owned by Polly Eddis, made it six wins in the 153cm class and took the Reserve Champion title; a victory that has previously eluded him in this particular Championship.
Susie Eddis has ridden Cash for the past two seasons. Her sister Lucy had the ride beforehand and competed him at HOYS between 2014 and 2018. Cash has been placed in Working Hunter classes at HOYS for eight years on the trot and took the Mountain & Moorland Working Hunter Pony Championship in 2016. Now aged 16, this Connemara shows no signs of slowing down.
Speaking after her class, Susie said: “He was amazing in there; I like him with a bit more energy, a bit fiery!” Lucy, who was at HOYS to support her sister, said: “It’s incredible. Just when you think he’s done it all, he does it again.”
Cash will have a rest now over winter while Susie concentrates on her event horse.
Kate Johnston’s 10-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding Elton John II climbed up from third place last year to top the Intermediate section with daughter Daniella in the saddle. Lincolnshire’s Daniella was thrilled with the win. She’s had Elton for four years and is pleased with how he has matured over his three appearances here at HOYS. The pair regularly show jump and came to HOYS fresh from winning the 1.25m Grand Prix at Arena UK just two weeks ago.
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SEIB Search for a Star series seeks out future HOYS stars
Lisa Sergeant from Lancs came to Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) with no expectations and was absolutely over the moon when her pony, Linsford Ear to the Ground, not only won the Working Show Pony class, but was crowned overall SEIB Search for a Star Champion.
The SEIB Search for a Star series gives amateur riders, and their horses and ponies, the chance to try and qualify for HOYS and benefit from a thoroughly supportive network in the process.
Lisa now plans to give HOYS qualifiers a go next year, which is just what the series is all about; finding those future stars.
Dorset-based Pippa Tucker was “absolutely buzzing” after her homebred horse, Rambo, clinched the Working Show Horse title and then went on to stand overall Reserve Champion.
Wales’ Sarah Walker and her own, Dr Cookie Monster, took the Riding Horse section.
Buckinghamshire’s Emma Peel and bay gelding, Melin Moldavite (Harvey), won the Hack section.
Wiltshire’s Emily Chambers rode her own mare Wulfstan Evensong (Evie) to victory in the Show Cob section.
The Traditional Horse/Pony class was a new addition for this year and was won by Angela Warnes’ 8-year-old cob, Daffodil, ridden by Kirsty Warnes. Daffodil was bought unbroken, a bit of a “rough diamond”, and intended to be a happy hack for Kirsty’s mother-in-law. However, after showing plenty of quality, Norfolk’s Kirsty has done a bit of everything with her from showing to dressage and cross country. They had a bit of a slow start to Daffodil’s ridden career after realising she was in foal!
Daffodil will eventually go to daughter Ella, but Kirsty was thrilled to find this opportunity for solid coloured cobs within the Search for a Star series.
Finally Isabel Southworth’s 5-year-old Irish Sport Horse, Bloomfield Imperial, won the Show Hunter section.
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Simon Constable Equine Vets and Mr & Mrs Roberts Ridden Purebred Arab of the Year Champion
A home-produced 6-year-old Arab gelding, Rafeekah, owned by Kerry Bates and ridden by daughter Kimberley won the Simon Constable Equine Vets and Mr & Mrs Roberts Ridden Purebred Arab of the Year Championship.
“We don’t have anything fancy at home and do all the work ourselves,” explained Northamptonshire’s Kimberley. “He’s kept on a normal livery yard and shares a field with other horses and ponies.”
Overall second place went to Tracey Hateley’s grey gelding, CBeebies, ridden by Darren Crowe from Essex.
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British Horse Feeds Speedi-Beet Grade C Championship
The British Horse Feeds Speedi-Beet Grade C Championship was the first showjumping class of the day on Saturday at Horse of the Year Show.
Out of a field of 26 riders, the 1.40m course proved tricky for some. Of the seven horses to make it through to the jump off, Essex’s Allana Clutterbuck set the time to beat of 35.27 seconds riding Vykinbay.
Last to go was Angie Thompson riding 9-year-old bay gelding, Fremont VDL. As no stranger to HOYS, Angie knew exactly what she had to do to secure the victory. Riding a perfectly judged round, Angie took a winning turn to the last fence which saw her come home ahead of the rest in a time of 34.66 seconds.
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The Leeman Family Maxi Cob of the Year
Elizabeth Bury’s Irish Draught, Lord Alexander (Alex), took the title of The Leeman Family Maxi Cob of the Year in the Championship’s ninth running at Horse of the Year Show.
Lynn Russell rode Baileys Horse Feeds’ 9-year-old Piebald gelding, Cappa Sham, to second place. They were also placed in this Championship in 2016 and 2018.
Essex-based Richard and Lisha Leeman and the wider Leeman Family are delighted to give back to the discipline through generous sponsorship of both the Cob and Maxi Cob of the Year Championship. Their support also extends to other events including the Kellythorpes Leading Sire and Kellythorpes Leading Breeder Showing Awards Series presented here at the 2019 Horse of the Year Show.
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Our Cashel Blue comes back in style to be crowned The Leeman Family Cob of the Year Champion
After a turbulent year, Caroline Tyrrell’s Our Cashel Blue (Blue) has made a triumphant return to Horse of the Year Show with Norfolk’s Allister Hood, claiming The Leeman Family Cob of the Year Championship.
Blue was Cob Champion and Supreme Horse of the Year in 2016, and Cob Champion again in 2017. However, in 2018, the 10-year-old was diagnosed with cancer after developing a lump on his shoulder. Blue underwent surgery to remove the tumour at the Royal Veterinary College at Potters Bar and then followed a long journey of three months’ box rest, walking in-hand and riding at walk.
Allister had also suffered a heart attack earlier on in the year.
Speaking after the Championship, Allister said: “I always had the dream of coming back here [to HOYS]. “He [Blue] has so many followers; we can’t walk around without people wanting to touch him or have a selfie. I’ve never had a horse with such a personality. He’s a grand lad.
Photo: Julian Portch
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British Show Pony Society Children’s Riding Pony of the Year Championship
This time last year, Charlotte Caulfield’s pony, Stretcholt New Dimension, was just being backed. Fast forward twelve months and he is now a Horse of the Year Show Champion, having won the British Show Pony Society 138cm Children’s Riding Pony of the Year and standing overall Champion.
This was also Charlotte’s first HOYS win. She said: “We never thought he’d get this far in his novice year; to get here is such a privilege.”
Winner of the 148cm section, Serena Parkhouse’s Jackets Destiny, stood Reserve Champion ridden by Emmy Parkhouse. The winner of the 128cm was Rotherwood Rainmaker ridden by India Till. Second placed in each section were: Dianne Brereton’s Laybalands Fly By Night in the 148cm, Henrietta Till’s Drakemyre Puttin on the Ritz in the 138cm and Essex-based Katie Smith’s Kouros Mayfia in the 128cm.
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The Binks Family Show Hunter Pony of the Year Championship
Julie Bankier rode Kate Bankier’s bay mare, Toncynfigg Liberty X (Tina), to victory in The Binks Family Show Hunter Pony of the Year Championship at Horse of the Year Show, rounding off her last year in Show Hunter Pony classes in style.
It was a good day for the large Show Hunter Ponies, as the Reserve Champion also came from the 153cm class; second placed CSF Chantilly Galway Girl (Dolly) owned by Lorraine Scott and ridden by Cambridgeshire’s Jessica Reed-Else. Jessica started riding the 6-year-old in May this year and they’ve fitted a lot into their first season together. She is based with Emma-Jayne Dujardin but Jessica will bring her home over the winter. This is Jessica’s highest achievement to date in her riding career. She first competed at HOYS in 2012 in the First Ridden Mountain & Moorland class when they finished eighth.
The plan now is to come out again next year and contest some Intermediate classes.
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Junior Mountain & Moorland Ridden Championship Sponsored by Ponies Association (UK)
A Welsh Section C pony has won the Junior Mountain & Moorland Ridden Championship Sponsored by Ponies Association (UK), after going one better on last year’s second place in the Large Breed class. Rivervalley Flash Jack (Jack) is owned by Janet Cox and is 8-years-old.
Amy Tate gained the ride on Jack in 2017, and the pair have competed in a lot of dressage as well as undertaking showing qualifiers.
A homebred Highland pony stood Reserve Champion, after finishing second to Amy and Jack in the Large Breed class. Austin of Miltonglen is owned by Lincolnshire’s Kirsty Faulkner and ridden by Olivia Faulkner. He had time out last year while the family moved house but has made up for it by competing at five shows this year.
Kirsty also owns his sire, Oscar of Edinglassie, and Olivia rode him in the Open Mountain & Moorland class at HOYS in 2016. They were placed eighth. Olivia is now hoping to progress to Open classes with Austin as well. Reflecting on the Championship, she said: “We’re overwhelmed, it’s the best feeling ever.”
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Topham Barnes Riding Horse of the Year Championship
Team Ross rounded off a fabulous week at Horse of the Year Show when her Small and Large Riding Horses both won their classes and took Champion and Reserve Champion in the Topham Barnes Riding Horse of the Year Championship.
Diane Stennett’s Small Riding Horse, Casino III, has been knocking on the door of the Riding Horse Championship for the past four years. Jayne Ross has had three wins with her and two Reserve titles, but they finally clinched the overall Championship.
The winner of the Large Riding Horse and Reserve Champion was CSF Cummer Paradise (Audrey), owned by Tony Reynolds and Michael Cook.
Second placed in the Small and Large classes were Ian Darcy’s Westerdale Regal Max, ridden by Callum Potts, and Kim Colosso’s Trenavey Rational Choice, ridden by Essex’s Rae Colosso.
