Welsh star is on the dot

A delightful Welsh section A leadrein contender is the best of a super-strong novice supreme on his winter championships debut

- TRICIA JOHNSON

British Show Pony Society (BSPS) Winter Championships, Arena UK, Lincs

TEAM JINKS reigned supreme in the hotly contested winter novice finale, assessed by Arena UK general manager Teresa Stratford who had a classy line of nine to consider. Her winner was the charming Heritage mini champion, five-year-old leadrein contender Glebedale Silver Dot (Socks), partnered by a confident Scarlett Smith and led by Adam Forster.

“My champion was a splendid example of a Welsh section A with a pretty head, correct conformation, a daisy cutting action, superb manners and loads of presence,” said Teresa. “He was an absolute joy to watch and I’d have liked to take him home for my granddaughter.”

This little grey – already through to Hickstead after winning at North of England – never turned a hair despite the buzzy evening atmosphere and this being only his fourth show since being broken-in.

“It was a dream come true for us,” said Adam. “We had a tip-off from a friend and immediately bought him, unseen, from the Danwood Stud where he left some beautiful stock on the ground before being cut last year.

“We broke him in after Horse of the Year Show [HOYS], and not only is he an incredible mover, he has bone, scope and substance – plus a temperament to die for.”

A DAY OF FIRSTS