THERE was success straight out of the starting blocks for US rising star Natalie Dean, who commenced her European tour with a win in the Defender under-25 jumping competition.
The competition was all for second place in this fivestrong jump-off, after Windsor debutante Natalie concluded the class from first draw with an untouchable round on her own 11-year-old mare, Dotcom D'Authuit.
"We were hoping I was going to get into the five-star, but hopefully I'll be able to jump that next year," said Natalie, who is training with Ben Maher.
"This is my first show in Europe and it's great to be here. I'm basing myself in England and we're planning to do shows in Europe and in England." Poles had fallen all round a well-built first-round track, with some of Britain's top young rider combinations put out of contention by just one fence down.
Natalie was joined in the jump-off by Francesca Young (Carrickview Libretto), Jake Myers (J Superstar), Lottie Tutt (Billy Olga) and Olivia Sponer (Bingo Du Chateau).
Harrison Hatteea (Come On Ferrari) was the only other rider to leave the fences standing, but didn't make the jump-off after adding a penalty for finishing just 0.05sec over the time allowed.
In the second phase, Jake and Olivia posted the next most competitive rounds, with J Superstar crossing the line 1.73sec behind Natalie's time. But Olivia in final draw came home 0.04sec faster on Joe Stockdale's former ride to slot into second place.
Esta historia es de la edición May 09, 2024 de Horse & Hound.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor ? Conectar
Esta historia es de la edición May 09, 2024 de Horse & Hound.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor? Conectar
Better judges' cover a must to protect the sport's future
A group insurance option has been found to protect the officials showing needs but only if enough sign up
IVF with frozen sperm is a 'milestone' in equine breeding
The first successful use of frozen semen in the technique has been recorded in an American study
Challenging ourselves to be and do better for our horses
The 2024 FEI general assembly heard how we should all challenge ourselves to give horses the best lives possible
Scottish jockeys to benefit from fund's top services
A new centre in Galashiels has been built thanks to a legacy donation
How horse simulators could help encourage people into riding
It is hoped the new model will help break down barriers to the sector for a wide range of people
Many horses' needs aren't met: study finds chance to improve
Researchers say all must ensure horses have space, friends, forage and good experiences
Humble pie
How many ladies does it take to cook a shepherd's pie? It’s a complicated one, says Tessa Waugh, on a quest to find appropriate ovens for the impending hunt auction dinner
I love an underdog
The arrival of the winter mud brings with it a Venetia Williams hat-trick, but the day belongs to a warrior gelding, who never stops trying”
Jumping Jack cracks it
A scopey grey is learning to be quick” anda broodmare makes up for lost time
A star is born
A nine-year-old mare helps put Luxembourg on the map and we celebrate a remarkable grey’s comeback