'She Walked In As If It Was Her Right'

At 17 years old, broodmare Broadstone Dolce Vita gives an injured Billy Moran his first Cuddy winner

- Billy Moran

IF ever a horse “owned” a ring, it was Pearl Underwood and Billy Moran’s broodmare Broadstone Dolce Vita (Dee) in the Cuddy supreme in-hand final. From the moment she strode to victory in the horse section, looking fresh as a daisy with her exuberant Tiger Attack foal at foot, the Broadstone Demonstrator 17-year-old oozed presence to captivate judges Pat Stirling and Beverley Daffurn.

Later, under the evening spotlights, there was no denying Dee as she grew in stature, maintained a perfect rhythm and outline, and again displayed her powerful walk and trademark elevated trot.

“This mare came into the ring looking as though she was there to win,” said Pat.

For Billy, fifth here with Dee in 2015, it was an emotional moment. After 25 years of breeding, this was his first Cuddy winner — and first ever appearance in the main arena.