Nielson nails it

An exciting new partnership seals grand prix honours and several riders come to the fore on unexpected catch rides

- SARAH RADFORD

PETER MOLONEY and Nielson hit the ground running at their first show of the year, wresting the grand prix from some of the most competitive combinations on the circuit.

The Newmarket-based Irishman and Lisa Volk's 12-year-old gelding - who was 2020 Foxhunter champion for Tim Davies - were drawn third of five in the jump-off, where the bar was set early.

First out were Hartpury winter grand prix victors Mark Edwards and Royale Tale, who had continued their form with a win in Friday's 1.40m open. They set a searing target round a track with limited options.

Next in were the very consistent Jess Hewitt and Arbitrage - winners of the grand prix here at the first winter classic in November and also under-25 champions in London - who crossed the line just 0.12sec slower.

But Peter was able to axe 0.32sec on the naturally quick chestnut, who he was only jumping at their seventh show as a partnership. They sealed the win when the final two combinations faulted.

"The first two were very fast and there wasn't much in it," Peter said. "He was very quick to the third fence, which is probably where he made it up.

"It was the first show for him since November and it was a good trial to pull him straight out and win. He's a very straightforward horse with plenty of experience who really tries hard and knows his job."

Pete has had a restructure of his string since setting up his new base last year.

"I'll be taking Nielson to St Tropez for two weeks at the end of February and I'll get to know him a bit more there," he said.

LIZZY WILL BE BUSY

HARRIETTE RUSHTON will be heading to Hickstead with the Foxisle Stud's Lizzy D'Alme CZ after outstripping some quick riders to head the Unibed High Performance Equine Bedding winter B&C.