Show Jumping

A change of bit makes all the difference for ‘fun horse’ Havana

- Sarah Radford

Hartpury College, Glos

SHE may have low mileage, but Alice Watson’s KEC Havana proved she has plenty of ability as she headed a strong winter B&C qualifier.

Jumping one of just three clears from 14 jump-off contenders, the 14-year-old mare cut an impressive two seconds from leaders Vicky Burns and Denzel II to claim the top ticket. Bought last year from Belgium to be a “fun” horse while Alice’s top ride Billy Lemon had a lay-off, this naturally zippy mare came over with just £100 on her record.

Alice said: “I was looking for a young horse to produce and rang Sean Aston about one he had. I said I didn’t have a lot to spend: I was after something to be a 1.30m/1.40m diesel-money horse.

“He said, ‘I know one out here in Belgium. She’s been with an amateur since she was six and isn’t young but is very low-mileage.’ I like little blood horses and I fell in love with her,” Alice added.

While the combination hit form in Spain last month, picking up a 1.40m win, they have taken a little time to gel.