‘His biggest win yet'

Louise Saywell and PLS Halo Diamond are crowned national champions, while Billy horses are out in force and a young rider impresses in the under-21 final

- ELEANOR JONES

NAF Five Star British Showjumping National Championships, Bolesworth, Cheshire

LAST Monday, PLS Halo Diamond returned to Louise Saywell after lockdown – six days later, the pair became national champions.

Rafael Suarez’s NAF Five Star Superflex British Showjumping grand prix track was testing, whittling 66 starters down to 17 for the jump-off, and it proved to be a world-class competition. Keith Shore had taken the lead on Djoel, and held it through challenges including from Holly Smith, William and Pippa Funnell and Kara Chad.

The jump-off comprised tight turns and long gallops, which suited Halo Diamond.

“He prefers galloping to turning because he’s so careful” Louise said. “But he made all the turns, and just kept galloping.”

The gelding has jumped some national classes with Flora Young, but Louise had feared he might be rusty at this height.

“Obviously not!” she said. “This is his biggest win yet, it’s unbelievable to be national champion. It was a tough competition but I can guarantee this horse will give you 110% every time.”

Mark Edwards and home-bred Montreuxs Tale retained their title in the Equitop Myoplast national 1.40 championship after a competitive jump-off. The 10-year-old does not look the speediest but uses his huge stride to best advantage.

“He probably takes one stride to two of everyone else’s,” said Mark. “He’s very quick but very level-headed. They have to have the right brain, and he’s been a super horse for me.”