Brave Heart powers to freestyle victory

Established stars and international first-time winners contribute to an exciting six days of top-level competition

- HELEN TRIGGS

THE grand prix freestyle was a close contest with 1% separating the top three - Ellie McCarthy and Brave Heart II, the current national champions Lewis Robertson-Carrier with Diego V and American Ashley Holzer on Hawtins San Floriana.

Ellie triumphed in the end with a programme featuring music from Kung Fu Panda created by Equidance.

"It's by far the best music I've ever had," enthused Ellie, who trains with Dylan Deutrom and Carl Hester.

"Massimo' came out fresh but 100% listened to everything I asked him. I got quite emotional on the final centre line. He's only 16hh and has the personality of a cheeky pony." International judge Peter Storr said: "The class wasn't big but the standard was high.

I had Brave Heart to win in the grand prix yesterday and I thought the passage and trot work were real highlights." The grand prix spoils were taken by Lewis with an assured performance from Diego.

"It wasn't as good as his test at the nationals but it was a nice clean test." Lewis said.

"The main thing is he got the marks where he needed them.

I feel that this year has been our best yet. He's established at grand prix and is coming into his power. His extended canter and tempi changes are now getting eights. I go to Carl Hester as often as I can and benefit from Kyra Kyrklund's immense wisdom at shows."

NEW PERSPECTIVE