Happiness Is A Winning Mare
Horse & Hound|September 10, 2020
Tom Whitaker tops a classy field, Irish youngsters shine and two riders score one-twos at this well-attended show
Penny Richardson
Happiness Is A Winning Mare

Pyecombe Summer Second Round and Championship Show, West Sussex

THE Light family produced a schedule that attracted 850 horses over the five-day show.

Tom Whitaker and Happiness III headed the talent seekers, Britain’s first senior qualifier for Aintree’s new championship show. A classy field took on Keith Bristow’s clever track with the top three placings going to mares.

When Harry Bateman and Zuniek VD Tojopehoeve Z took the lead from Helen Rees and her home-bred seven-year-old Bianca Du Rouet, the class looked over. But last-drawn Tom Whitaker took a stride out between the first two fences and then followed Harry’s route to win by half a second.

“I decided that was the only way I could beat him,” said Tom. “Happiness is super-careful and brave, so I can rely on her.”

The eight-year-old Dutchbred Untouchable daughter was bought by owner Becky Stones three years ago.

“Becky would like to breed from her eventually, but she has the talent to go all the way,” added Tom.

Irish-bred seven-year-olds dominated the Emma Ziff Photography-sponsored Equitop GLME Foxhunter second round.

A brilliant performance from Gemma Tattersall and MGH Candy Girl, who picked up their talent seekers ticket the previous day, demoted Tim Page and the scopey stallion Hillcoote Border Fox. But the best came from local rider Alex Bishop, who pulled off a hitherto unconsidered inside turn with the huge Thomascourt Emirates (Ernie) to win by more than a second.

“When I got there, I wasn’t sure if the turn was on. I thought: ‘Don’t be silly. Oh, go on then!’ as I needed something special to beat Gemma,” said Alex, whose partner Matt Pike bought the agile 18.2hh Pacino gelding 18 months ago.

هذه القصة مأخوذة من طبعة September 10, 2020 من Horse & Hound.

ابدأ النسخة التجريبية المجانية من Magzter GOLD لمدة 7 أيام للوصول إلى آلاف القصص المتميزة المنسقة وأكثر من 9,000 مجلة وصحيفة.

هذه القصة مأخوذة من طبعة September 10, 2020 من Horse & Hound.

ابدأ النسخة التجريبية المجانية من Magzter GOLD لمدة 7 أيام للوصول إلى آلاف القصص المتميزة المنسقة وأكثر من 9,000 مجلة وصحيفة.

المزيد من القصص من HORSE & HOUND مشاهدة الكل
'He's a terrier - a very classy terrier'
Horse & Hound

'He's a terrier - a very classy terrier'

Jonbon emulates some legendary chasers as a dual Tingle Creek victor, and trainer Dan Skelton scores a seasonal century

time-read
2 mins  |
December 12, 2024
Rupert
Horse & Hound

Rupert

This beautiful master's horse hates quad bikes and is \"scared of his rug\" but is dearly loved by both Nigel Peel and his son Jamie

time-read
3 mins  |
December 12, 2024
London's landmark moments
Horse & Hound

London's landmark moments

What makes London so special for dressage fans? Oscar Williams delves into its unique history, speaking to experts about their most treasured memories and the show's remarkable evolution in the sport

time-read
4 mins  |
December 12, 2024
Golden oldies take centre stage
Horse & Hound

Golden oldies take centre stage

The finals at London International are among the most regarded championships on the senior showing circuit. Alex Robinson investigates the finals and what's contributed to their popularity

time-read
5 mins  |
December 12, 2024
Winter wrapped up
Horse & Hound

Winter wrapped up

With the long-range weather forecast suggesting a chilly winter ahead, how can equestrians prepare for the challenges of frost, ice and snow? Stephanie Bateman finds out

time-read
5 mins  |
December 12, 2024
Party time
Horse & Hound

Party time

From Whitaker vs Whitaker football matches to a hunting choir roaring carols, top riders know how to let their hair down at Christmastime. Netia Walker unearths the best festive parties

time-read
6 mins  |
December 12, 2024
Rocking their world
Horse & Hound

Rocking their world

Rocking horses were once a common fixture in children's playrooms - or a charming trinket on a Christmas tree. Now, some are getting a new lease of life for grown-up enthusiasts, finds Liz Falkingham

time-read
6 mins  |
December 12, 2024
Winter watering
Horse & Hound

Winter watering

Maintaining a horse's water intake is crucial, but can be tricky in the colder months. Karen Coumbe MRCVS explains why, and how to help

time-read
5 mins  |
December 12, 2024
Shetland Pony Grand National organiser
Horse & Hound

Shetland Pony Grand National organiser

Sebastian Garner on whittling down applicants, playing headmaster and the joy of watching Shetlands at full lick

time-read
3 mins  |
December 12, 2024
Peder Fredricson
Horse & Hound

Peder Fredricson

The Swedish flagbearer and four-time Olympic medallist tells Jennifer Donald about 2024's ups and downs, the key to social licence and silver linings

time-read
8 mins  |
December 12, 2024