OVER the past three years, the places I have travelled to thanks to this profession are unbelievable. My horses have more stamps in their passports than most people get in a lifetime!
But I’ve missed out on the action at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS, report p50) in recent years, so I couldn’t wait to be back doing what I love in front of a home crowd.
It’s the pinnacle of the year for so many British showjumpers, and I truly hope that the national talent being showcased is one thing that never has to change.
If you’d asked me last week whether I’d have stood a chance of winning the grand prix with Hardessa, I’d have told you no. I wasn’t sure if we’d even be in it, we were just taking things day by day.
But winning the leading showjumper of the year on the final day was one of my most special achievements to date because it was just so completely unexpected.
CAMARADERIE AND EXCITEMENT
Diese Geschichte stammt aus der October 12, 2023-Ausgabe von Horse & Hound.
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Diese Geschichte stammt aus der October 12, 2023-Ausgabe von Horse & Hound.
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'Sorry, but I wasn't feeling it'
Fresh from the opening meet, Tessa Waugh hasn't quite yet been bitten by the hunting bug. Without the crisp autumnal air and cheek-pinching cold she hoped for, it's a sluggish start
New pair pull off a win
A former European Championships pony is on form with his new rider, while elsewhere former showjumpers and eventers take ribbons
Lording it over the rest
Horses who have returned from injury, a second generation homebred and a long format specialist score on the final weekend of the British season
Smith hits flying form
A \"her way or no way\" mare helps Zoe Smith to an impressive ribbon haul and a rider beats his own boss to the top spot
Jankorado hits the jackpot
Paul Sims is triumphant despite his interrupted jump-off preparation and a borrowed horse comes up trumps
Peanut
From \"dangerous, scary\" to hedge-hopping brilliance, hunting has been the making of this unstable but very lovable equine character
She's a corker
Communication, says long-standing and highly respected Belvoir master Lady Sarah McCorquodale, is the key to all, as Catherine Austen discovers
Access all areas Cavalier Centre
The Cavalier Centre is a fully accessible, state-of-the-art equestrian centre designed to improve lives through horse-based activities. Ellie May Forrester pays a visit
'Use it or lose it'
Not everyone wants to reach for the pipe and slippers at a certain age. Becky Murray speaks to some veteran horse-and-rider combos for their secrets of human and equine longevity
A new way forward
Worm control in horses is vital, but established methods will not remain effective for much longer. Tim Mair FRCVS explains why and how we need to change
