A 32-year-old gelding proved he really is the ultimate senior star as he took victory in the Senior Showing and Dressage Ltd (SSADL) supreme in-hand championship at Olympia, the London International Horse Show.
Hot Fuss, who is known as Charlie at home, and his owner/handler Laura Oughton-Auker were making their debut at the Christmas finale after just missing out on a coveted ticket last term.
Although he is 17 years older than the required age of a veteran show horse, Charlie, a New Forest-thoroughbred cross, topped the field by 10 marks.
Charlie, who was also shortlisted in the pony of the year category of the 2019 H&H Awards, has a mass of fans, in and out of the show ring.
Charlie was originally bought by Laura and her family as he had been branded as unsuitable as a riding school pony, and he continued to challenge Laura with his cheeky personality, under saddle and when travelling.
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He made Laura’s dreams come true when he qualified for Olympia this summer.
“People ask me when he will retire and I honestly don’t know,” said Laura. “One day he just won’t want to go on the lorry and until that time comes he’ll continue to have outings. He just loves it.”
Taking reserve for the in-hand supreme was last year’s ridden victor, the Welsh section B gelding Laithehill Pasha (Buzz). His handler Phillipa Dawson-Coates — who has Buzz on loan — was also having her first taste of the Olympia spotlight.
Do you own a veteran horse or pony? Let us know what you think older equines have to offer by emailing hhletters@ti-media.com with your thoughts, plus your name, nearest town and county, for the chance to be featured in the letters page of a future issue of Horse & Hound magazine…
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Over 15 days of the 2020 festive season, we are shining a light on up-and-coming equestrian talent across the disciplines. These are riders you really need to keep an eye out for in 2020...
Next in this series is 18-year-old showing producer and rider Harrison Taylor. Harrison is known for his partnership with the Connemara Skellorn Prairie Starlight, who was champion at both the Royal International (RIHS) and Horse of the Year Show (HOYS). He had two ponies in the young rider championship at HOYS, including the Welsh section B pony Skellorn Miss Ellie who he produced to stand second.
1. He started in show jumping
Harrison used to compete in BSJA classes and had two 13.2hh rides. He got into the show scene by chance.
“Penny Hollings asked me to ride one of her show ponies, Ninfield Fable, for the late Lady Horsfall,” explains Harrison. “I then started to compete one of the show jumpers, Skipper III, in worker classes. We mananged to qualify for both HOYS and the Royal International (RIHS) and he went onto stand third at the final with his next owner before retiring.”
2. He planned a ‘normal’ career
While he had broken and schooled ponies from a young age, Harrison attempted to pursue a non-horsey career before switching back to the saddle.
“I went to college to do business studies, but this lasted all of two months,” he adds. “I decided the business world was better off without me. My parents really wanted me to keep my options open and have a fall back plan. I tried but came back into the horse world. I have broken and produced a few ponies now although my most successful breaker is without a doubt the lovely Skellorn Miss Ellie, who went onto achieve a fourth at in the open and a second in the juniors at HOYS in 2018.”
Harrison is in the process of gaining BHS qualifications in riding and coaching. “While experience does count for a lot in horse world, I do think qualifications help,” he says.
3. ‘The naughtiest pony we have ever owned’
Harrison credits three ponies to his success, the first being the Welsh section B pony Highbent Monarch.
“Not many will known him but he was the naughtiest pony we have ever owned,” says Harrison. “He would buck me off virtually every day until I learnt to ride him. He probably made me be the brave rider that I am today.
“Skellorn Prairie Starlight is the pony who put me on the map from an achievements perspective, with a win at RIHS and HOYS all in 2018. And Skellorn Miss Ellie has also been amazing; I took her from the field and produced her into the amazing child’s pony that she is today.”
4. A mixed bag
While natives are his passion, Harrison has recently branched out into other types and breeds. He currently has eight animals on his yard, including six which are owned by clients.
“I always thought I would specialize in M&M’s and have done so up until recently, but I now have a small hack, a coloured and a worker as well; so I have a mixed bag really.”
5. He’s an easy going guy
When asked about his showing pet hates, Harrison says that he’s not really interested in what other people do: “I like to just concentrate on my own ponies health, happiness and success!”
6. Family is key
Harrison is based on the family yard in Lancashire and is helped out by his mum and his nana.
“I tend to be on my own on the yard most days. Mum will help me some evenings after work and she particularly helps with the breakers that may still need someone on the ground. My mum is always out on the yard at weekends; it’s good to have eyes on the ground. My Mum also takes care of the admin such as memberships, show entries, vet visits and blacksmiths/dentist and physio appts.
“My Nana is in charge of keeping me organized. She does things such as sorting out rug and numnah washing, packing and cleaning the lorry after a show, mopping the tack and feed rooms and is constantly going around with her little brush brushing every wall, ceiling and corner of any spider webs or dirt keeping everywhere clean and tidy so me and the horses have a clean, organised yard to work from.
“Stuart Mason also comes to my yard to coach me for a few hours each week. I also go with him to other yards where I can have a sit on different dressage horses which improves my riding. Although my horses don’t have to do the same fancy moves that the dressage horses do, it really shows me how to get the basics perfect. I do things like lateral work with all my horses on my yard. Stu really helps me to be constantly learning more.”
7. A bright 2020
“I am very excited about Kerry Wainwright’s novice Connemara stallion Skellorn Dejavu,” continues Harrison. “I backed him this summer and I have already taken him to a few shows; he was champion Connemara at the Royal Cheshire County Show this year and stood overall M&M inhand champion. He is a lovely pony to work with and has a great attitude. I am also very excited about my own small hack Barncroft King of Swing who I will campaign as a novice. He is a sensitive horse and I think he will take more time. I’m also really looking forward to another year with our own working hunter pony Lynuck the Moneymaker. I’m also excited to see ponies I’ve started off out competing with their owners on board.”
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8. ‘Everybody has to start somewhere’
“I would say the main challenge of being a young producer is gaining trust and respect from both clients and other professionals in the industry,” says Harrison. “Everybody has to start somewhere and all successful producers were once my age. I’m always wanting to learn more and do better; this year I worked part time for Team Jinks and I learnt a lot about riding and the importance of good turnout at shows. I also work two mornings a week as a rider at a dressage/showing yard.
“I love being a producer and really wouldn’t want any other job. I love working with my ponies everyday and going to all of the shows but I equally love doing the baby ponies and love to see them come on with time.”
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A Welsh section D came to the fore at the Olympia International Horse Show as he trotted away with the Lemieux BSPS Mountain and Moorland (M&M) championship, giving his rider her first Olympia title.
Producer Emma Boardman piloted her own nine-year-old Dyffryngwy Sir Picasso to advance on their third place achieved last season. The pair qualified for this year’s show at Westmorland County.
Picasso has been a regular at the championship since qualifying at his first ever ridden show as a four-year-old.
Bred by Gwyneth Griffiths, Picasso was a winner at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) this season where he stood reserve champion and was also M&M supreme at the Great Yorkshire Show in July.
Standing reserve was Melanie and Gemma Stanford’s prolific Highland stallion Benbreac Of Croila ridden by Matthew Cooper. The 12-year-old was making his final apperance under saddle before retiring to stud.
Sam Roberts and her own Welsh section B gelding Colby Silver Sprite stood third and top of the small breeds.
The top 10 results were as follows:
10 — Nipna Golden Poppy (Dales)
9 — Okedene Justin (New Forest)
8 — Lunesdale Dixie (Fell)
7 — Highland Chief Of Talisker (Highland)
6 — Cadlanvalley Buzby (Welsh B)
5 — Cashelbay Rocket (Connemara)
4 — Shilstone Rocks North Westerly (Dartmoor)
3 — Colby Silver Sprite (Welsh B)
2 — Benbreac Of Croila (Highland)
1 — Dyffryngwy Sir Picasso (Welsh D)
Other best of breed awards:
Shetland — Firle Ricardo
Welsh A — Llandrith Nemesis
Welsh C — Lynuck The Showman
Exmoor — Stowbrook Red Kite
Do you show native ponies? Let us know your thoughts on M&Ms by emailing hhletters@ti-media.com with your thoughts, plus your name, nearest town and county, for the chance to be featured in the letters page of a future issue of Horse & Hound magazine…
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Over the days of Christmas this festive season, we are shining a light on up-and-coming talent across the equestrian disciplines. These are riders you really need to keep an eye out for during the 2020 season...
Next up is show horse specialist Jasean Spraggett. Based in Worcestershire, Jasean won one of the most coveted finals at this year’s Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) — the lightweight hunter of the year — riding the mare Noble Queen Bee, who was also a finalist in the Cuddy working hunter championship, where she was the highest placed mare…
1. Pony Club roots
Jasean, 27, started showing with her mum at local Pony Club level with the Poole and District branch before competing at Ponies (UK).
“I have such fond memories of Ponies (UK) at East of England showground, especially with my first pony Cledwyn Lass (Louby),” says Jasean. “She was a grey Welsh section A who did hunter pony and show pony lead rein classes. I then moved up a level and I had my show ponies with Julie Templeton. I continued to have my other ponies at home where my mum and Nigel Oliver — who based his horses on our yard — home produced them.”
2. A gorgeous and multi-talented Welsh
In 1999, Jasean had her first rides at HOYS with the first ridden show pony Woodend Bambi and 128cms show pony Pendley Temptation:
“My first big win was on the gorgeous, multi-talented Welsh section A Springbourne Camelot who won the open Welsh A and B final at HOYS in 2003,” she reminisces.
3. Home breeding
Jasean works at home at the family-run Mulbrooke Stud, riding and competiting the youngstock. Alongside this she teaches at clinics up and down the country and trains people at shows, also course walking and warming horses up for the ring.
“I have also been fortunate enough to ride some beautiful horses and ponies over the years,” explains Jasean. “I have ridden for some of the top producers in the country which is always an honour. It’s always lovely to pick up a spare ride at a show for someone.
4. Giving something back
Jasean is also a qualified BSPS coursebuilder and also builds courses at the TSR summer championships.
“I always loved doing working hunter pony classes within the BSPS so decided when I grew out of the class I would become a coursebuilder so I could still be involved and give something back to the society,” she says.
5. ‘I really wasn’t sure he would be good enough’
The one Jasean credits for rocketing her to the top was a 153cm working hunter pony called Gigolo (Jiggy).
“Jiggy was found entire tied to a lamp post at the trotting sales in Ireland,” she says. “He arrived with us as a five-year-old and was very weak, unbalanced and unschooled. He would trip over all the time and I really wasn’t sure he would be good enough.
“Myself, mum and my trainer at the time Di Lampard and my instructor Linda Pearce from the Cottesmore branch of the Pony Club, worked hard and eventually it started to pay off. As a six-year-old he came fifth at HOYS and he then went on to be the first pony I would compete on the BSPS England Team with. He also won the RIHS, Desert Orchid, Champion of Champions, and multiple county show championships. He was retired and is still with us today.”
6. Six-strong team
“I currently have six in work, four of which are home-breds,” explains Jasean. “There include Noble Queen Bee who recently won the lightweight hunters at HOYS, a four-year-old coloured (Mulbrooke Love In The Air) and a novice worker by Amour G (Mulbrooke Errant Amour).”
7. The biggest victory
Noble Queen Bee — or Sally — as she is known at home, topped of Jasean’s year with an incredible HOYS win…
“Sally qualified for the working hunter at HOYS early in the season and I wanted to still take her to the big county shows, without over jumping her so I decided to do some lightweight hunter classes. She had some good placings just missing her ticket and last qualifier was at the BSHA National Championships. To my utter shock the top four had already qualified and the ticket went to me and Sally in fifth. I cried a lot!
“She finished fifth and highest placed mare in the Cuddy working hunter final and then to win the lightweights was a dream come true. Maybe when she is a mummy she can try for the Cuddy in-hand…”
“When my name was called out I genuinely could not believe it. To have beaten some of my idols was incredible! Having my friends and parents there was amazing; my parents have struggled to get to shows and this was the only show my Dad had made it too which made it extra special.
“I was starting to wonder if I’d ever win HOYS again after 2003; let’s hope it doesn’t take me another 16 years.”
8. The two-legged heroes
“None of what I do would be possible without my two legged team. My parents have supported me the whole way through and without them none of this would have even started. Some other vital team members are horse dentist Dean Andrews, chiropractor Emma Phillips and farrier Andy Bennett. Another major part of keeping me doing what I love is my surgeon Dr Colin Natali. I’ve been having steroid injections in my lower back for five years unfortunately this year they didn’t work but Dr Natali has now given me a rhyzotomy which has enabled me to compete. Without him I wouldn’t be able to ride at all.”
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9. Hunting, Olympia and lots of lunch
Jasean enjoys a quiet Christmas with her family.
“I will be spending Christmas Day with my parents. Mum is an amazing cook so Dad and I always look forward to at least three helpings of lunch. Sally has had a break and is now in work and getting fit for a few days hunting in the new year with North Cotswold Hunt. We will have our yearly trip to Olympia Horse show on the Friday night. My dad loves racing so we will all go to watch the Jockey challenge. It doesn’t feel like Christmas until you’ve seen the Olympia christmas finale.”
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Before I was allowed to have my own pony as a child, my parents would always take me to London with a friend to watch Olympia as a present for my birthday, which falls the week before the show.
This was my first time judging there and the standard was incredibly high. Each breed was well represented and on the whole everything went in accordance to breed type. However, across the board — in plaited and horse ranks, too — we are at risk of types bleeding into each other. As a judge, we should be able to put the animals we have in front of us in a specific class.
Over this festive season, we are shining a light on up-and-coming talent across the equestrian disciplines. These are riders you really need to keep an eye out for during the 2020 season...
Continuing the series is multi Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) and Royal International (RIHS) pony rider Harriet Dennison. Harriet is one of the most consisent young pilots on the show circuit and has forged a name for herself after landing accolades at all major shows across the country:
1. ‘I’ve been riding for as long as I can remember’
Harriet has been involved in showing before she could walk.
“I have been riding ponies from as long as I can remember,” says Harriet. “My mum can remember taking me to Ponies (UK) in the August and I was only born in the July.
“Mum is best friends with producer Julie Helliwell. Both her daughters, Rachael and Rebecca, competed in showing classes as did my mum and Julie. I followed in their footsteps.”
2. Gymkhanas on a Shetland
Harriet’s first experiene of equestrian competition was when she started attending local riding club shows with a Shetland. She would ride in the gymkhana and fun classes, before eventually progressing into the BSPS classes, ranks she has dominated in the present day.
“My brother rode at that stage so I often got to ride his ponies around the show grounds before I was old enough to compete,” she continues. “I used to go to Rachael (Helliwell’s) three times a week and practise on the lunge. I would ride whatever I could. Luckily for me, mum and all her friends were all into horses so wherever I went I was involved with them.
“I was very fortunate to be able to ride lots of different ponies from a young age, which I think has helped my riding greatly.”
3. The first ‘proper’ showing pony
Harriet credits the show pony Barkway Blackjack as being her first ‘proper’ showing pony. The lead rein gelding went onto win at the RIHS with Harriet in 2007.
“This was my first big win,” she says. “He lived at home with us but Rachael led me as Mum struggled to run fast enough and keep up with him in the ring. He was a lovely, kind pony but wasn’t the easiest. He really taught me how to be a quite, balanced and sensitive rider.”
4. Two special victories
“I have two wins which are really special to me,” says Harriet. “Taking the supreme pony title at HOYS in 2011 on my 122cm show hunter pony Crystal Vision was amazing. Two years later (2013) at HOYS, I took show hunter pony champion and show pony champion in the same year.”
5. ‘It’s all go go go’
Based at home in Nether Kellet, Harriet has a small yard with a few liveries and her own working hunter pony rides. Alongside this, Harriet also runs her own dog grooming business. Her flat showing ponies are based with the Helliwell family in Kendal.
“We co-own them and I ride them in the ring,” she says. “I go and ride them whenever possible to help out. I am just finishing my BHS stage exams and will hopefully gain my BHSAI qualification this year. I have a few local clients who I teach and I combine all this with my dog grooming business. I do occasionally ride for other people, but we are that busy at shows I struggle for time; it’s all go go go.”
6. Taking the rough with the smooth
When asked about her attitiude to showing, Harriet says she respects all of her results in equal measures:
“I don’t like bad losers and rude competitors. I was taught from a young age that showing is just one persons opinion on that day and that you have to take the rough with the smooth. The judge’s decision is final and whether you agree with it or not, you have to accept it.”
7. ‘I love bringing the novices through the ranks’
Harriet has an exciting team lined up for 2020, including some new novice mounts.
“I am really excited about my new novice intermediate show hunter, Kirtle Bertie Bassett,” she continues. “I love bringing the novices through the ranks. It can be quite challenging but I enjoy seeing their progression throughout the season.
“I will also be doing a bit of working hunter and hunting with my 153cm show hunter Merrycorner Mister Bui. We are still showing him in flat classes but he seems to like jumping so we will do this too to keep him fresh. I’m lucky to be riding Leavensthorpe Gold Rush (2019 RIHS intermediate champion) for Meg Edmondson. The whole team of ponies is fantastic; I’m looking forward to getting out showing again next year.”
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8. Don’t dwell on the bad days
“When things don’t go quite right in the show ring, or if the ponies go badly, it can be hard not to feel bad,” says Harriet. “I know how much work the whole team puts in and I do feel responsible for any errors. I have learned over the years that you have to put those mistakes behind you. Learn and move on, and don’t dwell on the bad days.”
9. Preparation and finesse
“Preperation is so important. You must think about your show, use your ring well and don’t rush. Make sure you show your horse’s paces off and always include a good walk.”
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You might have to wait another 12 months to experience the 2020 fixture, but you can still relive the magic of the 2019 Olympia, London International Horse Show.
These 12 stunning native ponies landed the best of breed accolades in the Lemieux BSPS supreme mountain and moorland ridden final.
Which of these perfect ponies was your champion?
Dartmoor
The 12-year-old stallion Shilstone Rocks North Westerly — a three time HOYS winner — made his final ridden appearance with rider and producer Chloe Chubb to also stand fourth place overall, for owner Lynda Calcutt.
Welsh section B
Sam Roberts has won the overall title at Olympia on multiple occasions, but this year she settled for third spot with her own Welsh section B gelding Colby Silver Sprite.
Connemara
The 2018 HOYS breed winner Cashelbay Rocket secured fifth place with Michael Harty in the saddle.
Welsh section D
Eventual champion was the stunning gelding Dyffryngwy Sir Picasso and his owner/rider Emma Boardman, who bought the classy cob as a foal from the Brightwells cob sales. The pair were advancing on their third place achieved in 2018.
Highland
Another combination bowing out at the top was Matthew Cooper and Melanie and Gemma Stanford’s prolific 12-year-old stallion Benbreac Of Croila, who qualified at Royal Windsor back in May.
Welsh section A
Sue Kernan’s typey palamino stallion Lledrith Nemesis was making his first appearance at Olympia, ridden by Chloe Lemieux.
Exmoor
The home-produced HOYS and RIHS finalist Stowbrook Red Kite was victorious with his owner Davinia Johnson after a tremendous season together.
Welsh section C
Lynn Scott’s consistent stallion Lynuck The Showman and Rebecca Penny topped a competitive breed section after winning HOYS together in October.
Shetland
The black stallion Firle Ricardo was making his Olympia debut with Grace Litherland.
Fell
The big moving stallion Lunesdale Dixie and his owner Christina Gough — best of breed on previous occasions — secured fabulous ride marks and a respectable eighth place overall.
New Forest
Hayley Reynolds and the nine-year-old Okedene Justin — another HOYS winner a few months ago — were awarded their breed title as well as ninth spot in the final line up, for owner Lesley Cook
Dales
Olympia debutante Nipna Golden Poppy galloped her way to 10th place overall with producer Sarah Parker at the helm.
Do you show native ponies? Let us know your thoughts on why M&Ms make excellent rides by emailing hhletters@ti-media.com with your thoughts, plus your name, nearest town and county, for the chance to be featured in the letters page of a future issue of Horse & Hound magazine…
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Carntall, the prolific-winning show cob — and winner of H&H’s inaugural ‘Unsung Hero’ award in 2007 — has died.
Carol Bardo’s much-loved and versatile heavyweight campaigner, widely known as “Bob The Cob,” was put to sleep on New Year’s Day following a bout of colic. He was believed to be 32.
Bob enjoyed a highly successful career in the show ring as a weight cob, ridden by Carol’s sister, Mandy Hughes, producer Richard Ramsay and also Jayne Ross. He qualified every year for Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) — once finishing third — and the Royal International (RIHS), in addition to amassing many county titles and wins at national championships.
He also notched up victories in working classes at major shows including Royal Windsor, RIHS, South of England and Richmond, before retiring at the age of 16. The retirement was short-lived, however, as he became Mandy’s HOYS ride in 2006 following the loss of her riding horse.
“I wanted a really genuine cob that I could ride, but one that could also do the shows,” said Carol. “Bob ticked all the boxes. I used to hack him out in Windsor Great Park and my husband Bill used to ride him too.
“He was simply just the best and happiest soul — a total pleasure.
“He would self-load into the lorry, though, and once took my tiny mum — who was happily holding him — straight up the ramp. She fell off the side of it, but Bob, meanwhile, had turned himself sideways and was standing waiting to be tied up.”
“Bob was a fabulous starter cob for Carol and me,” said Mandy. “He showed himself to be a true cob of character, and capable of anything and everything asked of him.”
Bob was loaned to Grade 11 para dressage rider Andrew Collins from 2007 to 2009, intended originally just as a hack while his own horse was sidelined. But once again the chestnut stepped up to the mark and won the 2007 national restricted para dressage title.
In 2010, he went on loan to rider Caroline Wareing — wheelchair-bound after breaking her back in a fall in the show ring — in order to get her back on a horse, and he quickly became part of the family there as well.
Bob was also ridden side-saddle, and attended the Show Ring showing camp, introducing many people to the pleasures of riding ‘sideways’.
“My son Toby rode him at home, where he was as quiet as a lamb,” continued Mandy. “When I rode him in the ring, though, he was more like a lion, frequently disappearing into the distance when asked to gallop on, much to the amusement of spectators and fellow competitors.”
Continues below…
Anne Dunham and Teddy Edwards
Credit: David Miller
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Following Bob’s Unsung Hero accolade, he appeared on the front cover of H&H, alongside Lucinda Fredericks’ great event mare Headley Britannia.
“Bob’s greatest love was jumping, and he loved every second over fences – but he adapted to whatever was asked of him, no matter the size or skill of the rider,” added Mandy. “He was a wonderful hack, and loved being ridden around Windsor Great Park.”
Bob was also the model for sculptress Belinda Sillars in her piece of a cob galloping.
“He spent his final years with one of our friends hacking out, being a companion to other horses and being allowed to grow his mane to disproportionate lengths,” said Mandy. “He was an amazing horse and brought so much pleasure to so many people.
“He touched so many lives and will be greatly missed.”
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As we gear up for the 2020 show season, get some serious inspiration from these nine talented junior jockeys who were victorious in the show ring last term…
1. Amy Tate
The eight-year-old Welsh section C Rivervalley Flash Jack topped the junior Mountain & Moorland ridden championship at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) with Amy at the helm.
2. Anna Crump
Anna and her own New Forest gelding won both junior and open ridden HOYS qualifications in September at Moreton-in-Marsh.
3. Lucy Jones
The Dales mare Nipna Flaming Katie was crowned junior M&M ridden champion at NPS Area 4, giving Lucy her first HOYS ticket.
4. Elizabeth Tarbatt
Elizabeth and the traditional coloured Geldys Pride netted the overall junior/intermediate rider of the year title at the CHAPS championships, before going on to stand supreme ridden at STARS.
5. Harry Edwards-Brady
122cm show hunter pony contender Gryngallt Page Too and Harry ended their 2019 season with a win at HOYS.
6. Anna Tuer
Cath Blakeborough’s 11-year-old gelding was crowned junior coloured champion at the Royal International Horse Show (RIHS).
7. Charlotte Tuck
Charlotte and the seven-year-old mare Reevesgate Royal Occasion were also RIHS winners, adding this victory to their HOYS win at Three Counties.
8. India Till
India had a tremendous 2019 season with the 138cm show pony Drakemyre Puttin On The Ritz who was supreme pony at the RIHS and also won at HOYS.
9. Maddie Boswell
Katie Goulding’s Connemara gelding White Diamond picked up a HOYS ticket later in the season after standing second and section champion at Midland Counties.
Do you know a super talented junior rider? Let us know your thoughts on M&Ms by emailing hhletters@ti-media.com with your thoughts, plus your name, nearest town and county, for the chance to be featured in the letters page of a future issue of Horse & Hound magazine…
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A prolific heavyweight show hunter who started and ended his highly successful career with a win has been put down aged 19.
Ducal Royal Emblem, who was by Primitive Rising out of an Irish draught mare, had been enjoying a happy retirement with owner Mr Fryer until he succumbed to a bout of colic on 31 December.
“Malcolm” started his showing career as a yearling, standing champion at Ashbourne Show, and retired 15 years later as champion hunter of Britain at the Royal London Show.
“His achievements in the show ring for the 15 years in between are testament to his wonderful attitude to his work, his consistent soundness, his bravery, his love of showing off and posing, and of course his absolute adoration of his food,” Mr Fryer told H&H.
Malcolm was sold at weaning to Hilary and Kenny Green. Success at county level was followed by third place in the 2007 SEIB Search for a Star final at the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS).
Mr Fryer bought Malcolm in 2013 and the combination qualified for HOYS that year.
“I wanted him immediately I saw him,” Mr Fryer said. “He took me to HOYS, then the next season, he won everything.”
In 2014 and 2015, the combination took wins and top-three placings at an array of shows including Royal Windsor, the Festival of Hunting, the Great Yorkshire Show and the British Show Horse Association’s national hunter championships.
Mr Fryer said the highlights were winning the amateur heavyweight hunter championship at the Royal International Horse Show on both years, and finishing ninth at HOYS.
Mr Fryer produced the horse himself, but Hilary and Kenny were “very much part of Malcy’s support team” until Hilary’s death in 2016.
“We retired him that year as champion, the same way he started his career,” Mr Fryer said. “Bless his heart.”
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Mr Fryer described Malcolm as a “complete and utter gentleman”, who was hacked out until he was completely retired in 2018.
“He did a phenomenal job; was never sick or sorry but he’d had a touch of colic about six weeks before and I’d been anxious. On New Year’s Eve, he got up to have his breakfast but went straight down again, and we had to let him go.
“He remained brave and dignified to the very end. He was a good old chap.”
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Sam has been showing ponies since she was nine, turning professional in 2004. She has produced many national champions and had multiple wins at Horse of the Year Show and the Royal International, and won the mountain and moorland final at Olympia. She trains a mix of her own and clients’ ponies.
Sam Roberts and Idyllic Spartacus
Growing up, I idolised all the greats: Mary King, Carol Gilbert-Scott, Anky van Grunsven, Richard Dunwoody, Tim Stockdale and, of course, Carl Hester. My house is full of books they’ve written. When I was younger I was very ambitious and driven, and while they are great qualities to have, with horses you have to put things into perspective. Success doesn’t always come in the form of a ribbon. Sometimes the rewards are teaching a youngster to pick up the correct canter lead or starting a pony off to jump.
I’m still very driven in all I do. The phrase “quitters never win yet winners never quit” rings true with me. However, while I believe it’s good to be stubborn about your goals I do think you have to be flexible with your methods.
Robert Oliver is a show rider and producer. He has won numerous titles during a career spanning more than 50 years, including five supremes at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS), where he also landed the hunter championship nine times and stood cob champion 12 times.
KINGS WARRIOR AND ROBERT OLIVER
We had the hunter Kings Warrior as a four-year-old and he was a gentleman from day one — a total legend who was so sound and never missed a show. Not one judge ever had a bad ride on him throughout his showing career. In 1994, he won his first of three hunter championships, two supreme titles and the middleweight hunter of the year at HOYS, a title he won five years running.
He never got ring crafty, cut corners or hotted up in his gallop. He was the kindest horse I’ve ever had and the one we all wish we had now. He never put his ears back and was always pleased to greet anyone.
Every show team has a set of items which they swear by and routinely use throughout the season. Whether you’re trying to add some extra show ring sparkle while on a budget or you’re celebrating after a class win, there are some items in that show basket, which might not be so essential to the green observer.
If a non-horsey person was having a nose through your kit, what would they look twice at?
1. Baby oil
While most adults would either purchase this silky soft liquid for its intended use, moisturising baby skin, showing folk rely on this greasy bottle of goodness for giving the muzzle, eyes and general points of judge’s interest that all important extra gleam before the class. As with any oil-based product, it should be used with care to avoid any risk of burning the skin in the sunshine.
2. Plastic Prosecco glasses
At 9am, really? Yes, you’ve been up since four o’clock and your horse has just won so pass a celebratory tipple please. If you’re the lorry driver then you’ll have to do with some lemonade, but at least a glass makes it easier to pretend it’s something more exciting.
3. Mr Sheen
If you need to get a dull tail gleaming there are a wide range of shine-enhancing tail sprays on sale, designed specifically to do the job, but you may also find a can of furniture polish on hand for this purpose within some show baskets.
4. Ear plugs
Never have two small pieces of cotton been so essential and valuable to some horses’ success. While to the untrained eye they may appear to be nondescript pieces of matted tat ready for the rubbish bin, to the rider of the young, highly-strung riding horse who is about to launch herself into the evening performance, they are more precious than diamonds.
5. Hair spray/ VO5 Gel
For keeping the human bunand pony plaits neat and flyaway free.
6. Blue rinse
No, not for your grandmother’s perm, but instead for your skewbald or grey’s white tail. Who knows where or when he will choose to poo through his beautiful silvery tail hair.
7. Glitter spray
Don’t lie, somewhere at the bottom of your show bag will be a half empty bottle of silver, gold or even pink glitter spray you’ve been slightly over keen with prior to an evening performance. While you claim it’s ‘only for the kids’, we all know showing people of any age love the OTT feel a bit of glitter can bring to the party. While it’s all good fun, the major downside is that you will be picking sparkly bits off your show saddle for the next three seasons.
8. Leg bandages with sheep on
If you’re going to go to the effort of owning a pony with white legs, you might as well wrap them in something funky to keep them clean during the warm up.
9. Oven gloves, tea towels or any other kitchen-based fabrics
A pair of oven gloves ora tea towel is great for a final rub over before the class. Ideal for wiping grease and lifting coats, or mopping up that unwanted bit slobber. Just remember to wash it before your other half picks it up to dry the dishes…
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The National Pony Society (NPS) is set to reintroduce its summer weigh-in scheme at the annual summer championship show in August.
In 2019, Baileys Horse Feeds visited the show held at Three Counties Showground in Malvern with a weighbridge, and expert nutritionists were on hand to measure ponies’ body condition scores and offer feed advice.
The NPS says that the aim of the scheme was “not to pass judgement but to offer practical advice and guidance on feeding to ensure ponies receive a healthy balanced diet and can be maintained in optimum condition”.
At the show, 62 ponies were presented to be weighed by their owners and riders.
A broad range of breeds was seen and all were weighed, weigh-taped and body condition scored to gain an objective measure of their levels of body fat. They were also assessed for the quality of their muscle and topline.
Baileys uses a nine-point body condition score system, where five is considered moderate, one poor and nine extremely fat.
Of the ponies, 21 were given a body condition score of 6.5 while only two were scored at 8.
The topline assessment uses a four-point scale, ranging from poor to excellent. Most of the participants inspected had a “good” or “adequate” topline.
The scheme will be expanded in 2020 and it is hoped that the number of ponies presented for assessment will increase.
“We are really keen to get people talking about this and taking advantage of the free advice available through the scheme at this year’s summer championships,” said NPS representative Sacha Shaw.
What do you think of this scheme? Let us know your views by emailing hhletters@ti-media.com with your name and nearest town for the chance to be featured in the letters page a future issue of Horse & Hound magazine….
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Leading show horse producer Danielle Heath provides her essential tips for shining bright in a supreme
Danielle has been a showing producer for 25 years, qualifying hunters, hacks, riding horses and cobs for the major championship shows from her Cheshire base.
She has won at both Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) and the Royal International (RIHS) and recently took the riding horse championship at the Royal Windsor Horse Show on the novice Times Square.
Training the stars
At the RIHS in 2012, there was a ride-off for the Winston Churchill horse supreme. Even though Simon Charlesworth on Pearly King pipped me and Oathill Take The Biscuit for the title, it was such a buzz. I think it was the first time there were equal marks in the Winston Churchill and it was a special moment. If it ever happens again, perhaps I’ll get it next time.
The exercise…
If your horse gets through to the supreme, you have little time to impress the judges. You must show off his best pace and his best asset. It’s not the time to try something new.
Here are my tips for a winning supreme performance…
1. Keep your show short and punchy. Even the professionals can get a bit lost from time to time. Although you might have done something good at the beginning, if you then ride too many circles or ask for too many gallops, it will have lost impact. Make sure it doesn’t go on for too long.
2. Always include a good stretch of walk. The judges want to see walk at the beginning and end of your show.
3 Always show a gallop. Even if you’re on a hack, your horse should show a good extension, lowering and covering the ground. You don’t have to gallop the legs off him.
4. A walk to canter can look impressive, but all your transitions must be smooth and seamless, with your horse on the bridle and listening to you.
5. Avoid incorporating the judges into your show, such as handing them flowers — it’s too personal.
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Consider this…
Done properly, a rein-back is impressive, as it shows your horse is still on the bridle and reacting to your leg. However, there is nothing worse than a messy rein-back.
A good rein-back is achieved with communication through your hand and leg. Gently encourage your horse, squeezing through your hands to ask him to move back, and gently encourage with your legs.
Practise reining back by riding back one stride at a time — make sure you give your horse lots of praise when he has done it.
Make sure your horse stands after he’s walked that stride back, so he doesn’t get into the habit of running backwards. As soon as he takes a stride back, loosen the rein, so he knows that’s enough.
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As we eagerly anticipate the 2020 showing season H&H takes a look at a selection of stunning new faces to keep an eye out for in show rings across the country.
Which of these future novice stars will become the HOYS and RIHS winners of the future?
Don’t miss our round up of novice ponies to watch during 2020, coming very soon.
1. Hobcroft Matties Echo
The four-year-old pure-bred Irish Draught is set to make her debut this term. Owned by Lily Rymill-Smith, the class one mare was bought in November from the owner of her sire (Balinmore Irish Rebel). “She is a late starter but I am backing her as we speak,” says Lily. “What she lacks in experience she makes up for with a huge personality and she is picking up all three paces nicely. We are hoping to compete in some novice hunter classes this year with Royal Windsor most likely being our first big show.”
2. Bowlands Jasper
Kay and Chris Sinclair-James’ four-year-old novice show hunter will be produced by Team Reynolds for the 2020 show season. “My husband Chris saw Jasper on the computer screen over my shoulder from his armchair,” explains Kay. “We definitely weren’t looking but there was no hesitation and he bought him which is out of character as he is normally moaning at me for having too many horses!” Jasper is pure Irish Draught by Silver Jasper and out of Bowlands Royal Slipper. As a two- year-old he won at the Great Yorkshire and was champion at both IDHS (GB) breed shows including winning the prestigious Moorbennhall Youngstock Challenge championship.
3. Carrowgar Herald
Raine and Gary’s Harthern’s novice hunter by Herald III will be brought out in the four-year-old hunter classes this year under Freya Metters. Bred by Gina Heaps, George was purchased unbroken at last year’s Dublin Horse Show where he was crowned supreme young horse. “He has a lovely nature and we are very excited to get him out this year,” says Raine. “We hope to have him ready to compete at Royal Windsor.”
4. Rathnagrew Tom
Jodie English is set to bring out her five-year-old heavyweight show cob at novice level. “He was backed as a four-year-old and we hoped for a great novice season however during the the winter of 2018/2019 he sustained an injury which put him out of work for 5 month,” says Jodie. “We had pretty much written off the 2019 season but we made it to equifest where he was amateur supreme of show. He has been rested since and we are hoping to break into county level novice classes this year.”
5. Parkdene Royal Affair
William Hibbert is set for a busy 2020 season with his team of novices, which includes this 16hh non-native horse. Bred by John Cutts, the classy gelding is a previous winner of the the foal futurity at the CHAPS championship show.
6. Tuscany Take That
The 2019 HOYS Cuddy in-hand runner up will hit the small hack circuit with owner Bronte Hatton Ritchie. The gelding is the only UK-based horse by Australian sire Royalwood Boy Soprano. “I’m very proud to own such a horse,” says Bronte.
7. Fiddlers Elvis Green
The five-year-old show cob owned and ridden by Esther Lloyd-Jones was bought as a three-year-old from Sue Heath. “Sue has found many coloured stars including Chantilly Lace and Hello Dolly,” says Esther. “I’ve backed Elvis myself at home and we are completely home produced so we plan on doing Search For A Star with him this year. He was very much in the rough when Sue found him but when we saw him we fell straight in love.”
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8. Bogbank Ben
The Cuddington stud will be taking on their first traditional coloured contender this season. “We are really excited to bring Ben out this season and take our first steps as a team into the coloured world,” said Mark Robert Reeves. “Ben is a lovely horse to deal with in all ways and he will be aimed at Royal International and HOYS qualifiers this year.”
9. Cosford Fine Affair
Taran Hanover owned the six-year-old hack — who is currently unshown — since he was a three-year-old. “We have given him lots of time to mature,” says Taran. “He’s a very elegant, old fashioned type of hack and our aim for him will be novice spring shows and possibly Windsor.” Freddie will be produced by Jayne Ross. “I think he’s very special so hopefully been worth the hard work and perseverance,” added Taran.
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The show horse producer talks about the benefits of planning ahead, the importance of a pre-competition feast and one very special Connemara pony...
I always go into the arena at home with a plan or a specific exercise to work on. It can be very easy to go in the school and trot round in circles without achieving much. I like to use lots of polework for variation and straightening.
My dressage trainer Gary Foggon helps me with all my horses on the ground, so I always have plenty of homework when I do take the horses to school in the arena.
If you’re into showing then it’s that time of year again where you need to be thinking about which society to join to ensure you’re able to compete in the classes you want when the season kicks off (Pssst, it’s not long!).
With a wealth of options out there, choosing the right one to suit your season plans can seem daunting, particular for first-timers, so we are here to help by explaining what some of the most popular showing societies are offering members this term…
National Pony Society (NPS)
Why join?
If you want to compete in the following qualifiers and respective finals:
Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) Mountain and Moorland (M&M), Lead Rein (LR), First Ridden (FR), Junior Ridden, Open Ridden and Working Hunter Pony (WHP)
HOYS Show Pony (SP) LR, FR and height sections.
HOYS intermediate show hunter (ISH) /show riding type (ISRT) /working hunter (IWH)
HOYS Partbred
HOYS lead rein of hunter type (LRHT)
HOYS Show Hunter Pony (SHP)
HOYS WHP
Royal International Horse Show M&M WHP
What do they offer?
There are 18 NPS areas, which cover the length of the UK, and most commit to hosting various shows throughout the year.
The NPS holds seasonal shows including the Spring Festival held at the Royal Three Counties Show Ground (18 April 2020). The annual summer championships will take place at the Three Counties Show Ground, Malvern (31 July — 2 August 2019).
NPS members have the opportunity to compete for the silver medal rosette at certain affiliated shows and subsequently quality for the silver medal championship final, to be held at the summer championship show in August.
The NPS runs its own dressage series.
Reduced passport applications and transfer fees for ponies in the British Riding Pony Studbook are offered to NPS members.
Included in the membership is public liability and accident insurance.
What will it cost me?
The cost of a qualifying membership for one person is £80, while a non-qualifying membership costs £69. This membership covers all ponies eligible for the listed qualifying classes. There is £5 discount for membership applications completed before 31 January 2019.
If you want to compete in the following qualifiers and respective finals:
HOYS M&M LR, FR and open ridden classes
HOYS IHT/ISRT/IWH
HOYS SP (LR/FR and height sections)
HOYS SHP
HOYS LRHT
HOYS plaited and M&M WHP classes
All RIHS pony classes (including Anglo and Part Bred Arab, Heritage and Pretty Polly finals)
M&M Olympia Heritage qualifiers and final
Burghley Gold Cup qualifiers and final
What can they offer?
There are 17 BSPS areas covering England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland, each holding annual shows with discounted entry fees to society members.
Three BSPS championship shows are held at Arena UK, Grantham, including the BSPS winter championships (18 and 19 April 2020), the summer championships (26 — 29 August 2020) and the Heritage championships (17 & 18 October 2020), which is solely for native ponies.
BSPS offers members the chance to qualify for the Blue Riband Pony of the Year, BSPS Challenge, BSPS Premier League and Champions of Champions finals held at the summer championships and the Heritage championships (Blue Riband).
BSPS holds qualifying shows for the Land Rover Burghley Gold Cup sports pony final.
What will it cost me?
An adult showing membership costs £53. BSPS also requires separate pony registrations, which costs £36 per animal.
The NCPA has 10 branches spanning from Cumbria to Shropshire areas, with each holding a number of shows during the course of the year where members are offered discounted entry fees.
The NCPA Spring Spectacular is held at Southview EC, Wettenhall (14 March 2020) and the Pony of the Year Show will be held later in the season (6 September 2020).
Members are given the opportunity to win a bursary to be used for an equestrian training course at any approved NCPA establishment.
NCPA members can win the Star Rosette at affiliated shows.
What will it cost me?
A single adult membership is £32 per person (£30 online).
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Ponies Association (UK) (PUK)
Why join?
If you want to compete in the following qualifiers and respective finals:
RIHS M&M young riders
RIHS M&M amateur riders
What can they offer?
PUK offers members two championship shows, the winter and summer championship events (dates/venue TBC). The PUK Spring Classic (21 — 22 March 2020) is held at The College Equestrian, Keysoe.
PUK hosts a winter unaffiliated dressage tour, culminating in the final which is held at Bury Farm EC, Lancashire.
If you want to compete in the following qualifiers and respective finals:
HOYS cobs (including maxi cobs)
HOYS riding horses
HOYS ridden hunters
HOYS hacks
What can they offer?
The BSHA holds several shows throughout the year, including the BSHA Southern spring show (18 April 2020), the BSHA Northern spring show (19 April 2020). The season culminates in the BSHA hunter championships (10 September 2020) the BSHA national championship show (11 — 12 September 2020).
The Martin Wood supreme in-hand breeding championship has qualifiers throughout the year and culminates in the supreme championship at the BSHA national championships, with £1,000 being awarded to the winner.
The BSHA amateur points award scheme is offered to members who fit the criteria.
For young riders there is a “Rising Stars” series, with a final held at the national championships.
What will it cost me?
An adult membership is £50. Horses must also be registered with the society. Those looking to compete in HOYS classes will pay between £35-50 per horse, while non-qualifying horses can register for £35.
If you want to compete in the following qualifiers and respective finals:
RIHS ridden hunter qualifiers.
The Blue Chip ridden sport horse series and The Polly Coles four and five year old ridden hunter championship.
All ridden hunter and sport horse classes run under SHB(GB) rules.
What can they offer?
SHB(GB) is the governing body for hunter and sport horse classes, which are held at major shows throughout the country.
Grading system for stallions and mares registered in the society. There is also an annual stallion parade which takes place at Badminton Horse Trials and showcases stallions graded within the society.
The National Hunter Supreme Championship Show is held annually at Addington and this year it will take place on the 7 — 9 July 2020.
Membership will give reduced entry fees for in-hand classes at the National Hunter supreme championships show.
TSR offers discounted training clinics as well as eligibility to the TSR training pathway, which allows amateur members to be ‘scouted’ for the master class to be held at HOYS.
The TSR spring and summer shows will both take place at Onley EC, Rugby 0n the 3 May, and 18 & 19 June 2020, respectively.
Eight showing finals are held across the UK, and competitors can qualify at selected local shows.
If you want to compete in the following qualifiers and respective finals:
RIHS coloured horse and pony classes
What can they offer?
The BSPA has 13 regional areas, which offer support and assistance to members.
Grading system for stallions and mares registered in the society.
The BSPA hosts the Festival of Showing winter championships at College EC, Keysoe (23 Feb 2020) and the BSPA World of Colour show (TBC) at the same venue.
What will it cost me?
An adult membership costs £45 per person, while a RIHS qualifying card costs £23 per horse/pony.
Coloured Horse and Pony Society (CHAPS)
Why join?
If you want to compete in the following qualifiers and respective finals:
HOYS coloured horse and pony series.
What can they offer?
The CHAPS summer championship show takes place at Arena UK, Grantham (12 — 15 August 2020).
CHAPS offers grading opportunities open to registered stallions and mares.
What will it cost me?
An adult showing membership costs £40 per person.
For all the latest showing news and reports, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday.
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Heading out with a novice pony this year? Check out these 10 potential super stars you could be standing next to in the line-up.
Which combinations do you think will take the show scene by storm?
1. Bluehaven Rock Goddess
Victoria Costello’s six-year-old home-bred Welsh section C mare will be entering her first ridden proper show season with producer Lauren Beaumont.
“Bambi, as she is known at home, has had a successful in-hand career up until she was a three-year-old winning multiple bronze and silver medals,” says Victoria. “She competed lightly under saddle last year and she will be produced by Lauren for the foreseeable future. As her breeders, myself and my parents are very much looking forward to watching her out under saddle.”
2. Lindeth Whistleblower
Sam Bently, age 12, will be making his debut with his novice five-year-old 14hh show hunter pony.
“Sam has won the Royal International (RIHS) twice and is looking forward to getting his new pony out this year,” says Sam’s mum Nicola. “They are coming along much quicker than we anticipated which is credit to his producer, Charley Baxter, and also the temperament of the pony.”
3. Moin na Guise Paddy
Despite being 10, the scopey Connemara will be hitting the working hunter circuit for the first time during 2020. Ridden by 14-year-old Soffia Cynwyl, Paddy has had two double clears in the British novice show jumping classes and has qualified for the NSEA Arena Eventing Championship representing Cardigan secondary school.
“Paddy is a real character and makes us laugh,” says Soffia’s mum Anwen Francis.
4. Loughmore Rebel
The four-year-old class one Connemara stallion owned by Steph Peto is set to have a bright future under saddle. He had multiple successes in-hand as a three-year-old including taking reserve supreme at the Connemara breed show and youngstock supreme at NCPA Pony of the Year show.
“We are extremely excited to get him out under saddle this year,” enthuses Steph.
5. Redshaw Romeo
Phil Creighton and team will be producing the four-year-old intermediate show hunter for owner and rider Hazel Noble.
“He has been a winner in-hand and has been now been broken,” explains Phil. “He is a wonderful young horse and is going amazingly.”
6. Glenkyle Swallow
Kelsey Walker’s novice four-year-old Connemara will be making a ridden debut with Emma Boardman who is currently breaking the mare.
“We bought her as a three-year-old old from Jackie Parry,” said Kelsey. “Swallow was very lightly shown in-hand last year with great success being supreme in-hand NCPA Northern Spectacular.”
7. Gigman Babylonian
Alicia Thomas will be riding her own Palomino Welsh section B in novice small breeds ranks this term.
“I’ve waited so long for a palomino section B to come along so this is a very exciting season for me,” says Alicia. “He attended his first show and started off his season just how we wanted, with a win.”
8. Brandreth Just Fine
Ferdi — as he is known at home — was bought by Sue Plevin as a suprise for her daughter Emily’s 21st birthday. The five-year-old by Fortino will contest a handful of novice intermediate show riding type classes.
“We really think a lot of him and are very excited to bring him out this season,” says Steven Hulston of the Cuddington Stud, who will be producing him this year.
9. Shilstone Rocks River Dart
After the retirement of her big winner Shilstone Rocks North Westerly, Chloe Chubb has a new Dartmoor stallion from the same stud waiting in the wings.
“I have him on loan as they want him back to breed from eventually but the plan is to get him out under saddle in 2020,” says Chloe. “He is by Shilstone Rocks Snow Goose who I rode at HOYS to be fourth many years ago. He is a scopey Dartmoor with a good amount of limb. He is very laid back about it all and if he can do half as well as his dad and Windy, I’ll be happy.”
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Hayden Hankey received a stars of the future award.
A married couple who met while stewarding, a “stalwart” volunteer and an event rider were among those recognised at the 2020 British Show Pony Society (BSPS) awards.
