AS a certain Rupert Campbell-Black causes hearts to swoon, another Rupert has already won the hearts of the Peels.
"He knows he's beautiful," says Nigel Peel, former huntsman of the North Cotswold and the Thurlow. "He should be going down the Mall, he's the right colour - black."
Nigel's son Jamie, now jointmaster of the Chiddingfold, Leconfield and Cowdray, agrees, but notes: "There's not a hope in hell you'd get him in that environment!"
For Nigel's last four seasons hunting hounds, he rode Rupert, finally finishing with him as second horse on the last day before the world locked down in 2020. Working hunter producer Libby Cooke had found him in Ireland - as she has many others - for Nigel.
"She made him and got him going. He proved to be one of the best horses I've ever ridden; we jumped some amazing fences," says Nigel. "I didn't know how he'd cope with the drains in the Thurlow country, but he treated them as if they weren't there."
He remembers him as "so easy to ride and very comfortable, I could sit on him all day. He adored the hounds; I could let the reins go and he'd follow them".
Nigel only remembers coming off him once, when out on a ride alone.
Denne historien er fra December 12, 2024-utgaven av Horse & Hound.
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Denne historien er fra December 12, 2024-utgaven av Horse & Hound.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
'He's a terrier - a very classy terrier'
Jonbon emulates some legendary chasers as a dual Tingle Creek victor, and trainer Dan Skelton scores a seasonal century
Rupert
This beautiful master's horse hates quad bikes and is \"scared of his rug\" but is dearly loved by both Nigel Peel and his son Jamie
London's landmark moments
What makes London so special for dressage fans? Oscar Williams delves into its unique history, speaking to experts about their most treasured memories and the show's remarkable evolution in the sport
Golden oldies take centre stage
The finals at London International are among the most regarded championships on the senior showing circuit. Alex Robinson investigates the finals and what's contributed to their popularity
Winter wrapped up
With the long-range weather forecast suggesting a chilly winter ahead, how can equestrians prepare for the challenges of frost, ice and snow? Stephanie Bateman finds out
Party time
From Whitaker vs Whitaker football matches to a hunting choir roaring carols, top riders know how to let their hair down at Christmastime. Netia Walker unearths the best festive parties
Rocking their world
Rocking horses were once a common fixture in children's playrooms - or a charming trinket on a Christmas tree. Now, some are getting a new lease of life for grown-up enthusiasts, finds Liz Falkingham
Winter watering
Maintaining a horse's water intake is crucial, but can be tricky in the colder months. Karen Coumbe MRCVS explains why, and how to help
Shetland Pony Grand National organiser
Sebastian Garner on whittling down applicants, playing headmaster and the joy of watching Shetlands at full lick
Peder Fredricson
The Swedish flagbearer and four-time Olympic medallist tells Jennifer Donald about 2024's ups and downs, the key to social licence and silver linings