AN adored working hunter contender shone against animals less than half his age in the Supreme Products supreme pony championship to win the title on a score of 28/30.
Claire Collier's evergreen 143cm contender Beech Hall Ryan and Izzy HartswoodCollier, 15, were last to go. Supreme first-timer Izzy was the consummate professional as she steered the 16-year-old gelding to produce a flawless display, sealed with a true worker gallop down the grandstand.
As the scorecards were raised, it took Izzy a little while to realise what had just happened. When everything came into focus, she put her hand to her mouth, dropped her reins and threw her arms around her pony.
"I was just happy to be here," said an elated Izzy.
Earlier in the week, the duo had occupied the top spot in the LG Show Team working hunter pony championship, a title Ryan lifted back in 2016 with former rider Zara Weir.
"I can get nervous when jumping, but Ryan looks after me and he's so reliable and forgiving," said Izzy.
Jump judge Brigit Ensten said the "brilliant" Kevin Millman-built course wasn't overly big in height, but that it provided plenty of food for thought for the young jockeys.
"Those riding here for the first time will return next year as better riders," Brigit said.
The Colliers were on cloud nine after their worker victory.
"It's been a family ambition to own a RIHS worker winner," said mother Claire, who was champion at Hickstead herself 22 years ago riding show hunter pony Trewolla Denzil.
Izzy is trained by Claire's sister, Emmie Leedham, who previously competed on the working hunter circuit.
"Izzy has an autoimmune condition called Behçet's disease, so she can't stand up to falling off or being knocked about," Claire added. "So I need to ensure she has safe ponies, which Ryan totally is. I trust him completely."
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