CATEGORIES

Valdecaz is the finest

The HOYS qualifying circuit storms on, as more riders and their steeds capture coveted spots to the anticipated final

Fairytale win for perfect filly

A coloured horse defies the formbook, a Connemara is supreme native and a novice working hunter displays ability and potential

Toy entrepreneur

Karen Clithero has revolutionised the soft toy market, turning her Crafty Ponies into widely acclaimed creative play products, with some very famous fans

Honour roll for amateur's star

An amateur rider lifts her first-ever supreme championship, fresh-faced novices learn their trade and a young Irish Draught scoops the top in-hand accolade

Durable

This dreamy grand prix stallion has a temperament to die for and still amazes his rider every day, finds Polly Bryan

Running out of steam?

What could be behind a horse’s failure to develop or maintain fitness as expected? Andrea Oakes investigates

‘He's done everything for me'

A partnership’s journey from novice to inter I results in a national title, while Scottish riders and unconventional breeds prosper, and young riders shine

Record royal run for Walker

The hunter of the circuit achieves a rare hat-trick, a seasoned mare tops the riding horses and top cobs do battle for the overall championship

New engagement for prolific hunter

A side-saddle pilot books a HOYS slot on her first attempt while a New Forest stallion stands in-hand supreme

Pony centre manager

Natalie O’Rourke heads up a community pony centre that became known as the “National Horse Service” during lockdown, raising spirits all around London

‘What a small world we live in'

Discovering that a new loan pony for Jack has already successfully done the rounds with other children is a promising sign for Tessa Waugh, as she sets about sprucing up stables for senior camp

Bojangles produces heartfelt victory

True home-producers shine on board hunters and a hack bounces back after being diagnosed with a bone cyst

Bates bags first big win

A first-time international winner takes the feature class, while Jem Rose hits new heights

Princess Bella claims her crown

Alice Oppenheimer and her delightful home-bred mare dance their way to a freestyle double, while two other riders end a run of near misses to reach the top of the podium

Royal Windsor farrier

Chris Carrel on shoeing horses for The Queen, the army and competitive stars, and his sideline of upcycling old horseshoes into touching mementoes

Maher lines up Tokyo

Explosion W shows fantastic form at this rescheduled show, taking the feature class in the week his Tokyo Olympic selection is formalised

Ladies in waiting

A woman is yet to claim individual Olympic gold in either eventing or showjumping. Andrea Oakes investigates the reasons behind this

Big performance from Tiny Dancer

Despite low entries in the plaited ranks, there is quality in abundance and top-class combinations lift major titles

If the shoe fits...

Alex Robinson asks leading farriers how they shoe for specific disciplines to give the horse a winning edge

Falcon by name and nature

Hairies land two of the four main native championships, while a Connemara reigns in-hand and a home-produced Welsh is crowned top mini

Are You Sitting Comfortably?

So your saddle fits your horse to perfection, but does it fit you? Leslie Bliss finds out why it is crucial to make sure this key piece of equipment is as comfortable for the rider as it is for the horse

Ponies are our nemesis

Entrusting the most precious thing you have on this earth to a pony is stressful, especially when the said pony is so obviously in charge of its middle-aged minder, realizes Tessa Waugh

Underdog mare rules

A small-time rider and breeder set the standard, as top riders and stable jockeys both enjoy success

‘She's taught me patience'

Future talent is on display across the levels, with Vivaldi offspring asserting themselves

Nicholson makes it seven

Experience pays dividends for two seasoned campaigners as they triumph in the CCI4*-S

It's all to play for

H&H dressage editor Polly Bryan predicts a thrilling Olympic Games full of unpredictability – where Britain’s bright young stars could flourish

Horses for courses

What does it take to win as a working hunter at the Royal International? Ahead of the 2021 show, Alex Robinson speaks to those who know the track best

Mike Bullen

With just seven days to go to the Tokyo Olympics, event rider Mike Bullen reminisces about his own Games experience, something he “wouldn’t have missed for anything”, says Kate Green

Equine dentist

Royal Warrant holder Grant Chanter on keeping ceremonial horses’ teeth in top condition, Princess Diana’s funeral and a special moment with the Duke of Edinburgh

Mount St John Freestyle

Charlotte Dujardin’s superstar Olympic ride is a girly girl with a heart of gold, finds Polly Bryan