Innholdsfortegnelse for 29-Nov-2018 i Horse & Hound

I’D happily eat mince pies in October, hear White Christmas in November and don a reindeer jumper any time of the year. I adore the whole season and everything about it. However, for fear of having too much of a good thing, I restrain myself and daren’t give it too much thought until 1 December — beyond planning this issue, our pre-Christmas issue and our Christmas quiz issue I mean… Once you open the first window on your advent calendar, then it is surely legitimate to start getting festive. At least put Nat King Cole on. And so with this week’s advent calendar front cover — a publishing first in Horse & Hound’s 134-year history — we say ‘let the festivities commence’. On the subject of Christmas, how’s the shopping…

RACING SURVEY IS ‘VITAL’ SAYS BHA THE British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has launched a second survey to measure any changes in perception and confidence from the industry in how it operates. The first survey was conducted in 2017 and its results were published in the annual report. Results from this year’s study will be compared, and published in the 2018 annual report. A cross-section of 10,000 stakeholders, participants, racecourses, racegoers and the media will be surveyed. “It is vital we retain and increase the confidence of fans, customers, participants and investors that our sport is fair and clean,” said Tim Naylor, BHA director of integrity and regulation. LIVERPOOL SHOW TO HELP WOMEN A NEW partnership has been announced between the Liverpool International Horse Show and WeMindTheGap. The charity, which supports…

Trainer Luca Cumani saddled his final runner at Wolverhampton last week, after a 43-year career with highlights including two Derby wins. His last, Swansdown, finished second. British vet Jenny Hall is the new chair of the FEI veterinary committee, for 2018-2022. She replaces fellow Brit John McEwen, and becomes an FEI board member. Endurance GB vice-chairman Harry Ingram was due to retire on 24 November but left early, for personal reasons and “some concern” over the society’s strategy and direction. FEI president Ingmar De Vos was unanimously re-elected at the FEI general assembly. It is the first time since 2002 there has been an uncontested election for the top FEI job. World Champion German showjumper Simone Blum was voted best athlete at the 2018 FEI awards. Simone took team bronze…

NICK EMBIRICOS THE owner of 1981 Grand National winner Aldaniti and a driving force behind the formation of the Bob Champion Cancer Trust died on 21 November aged 81. Aldaniti was ridden by Bob, who said it had always been “Nick’s dream to win the race”. Mr Embiricos, who was chairman of the trust for years, also co-owned Tina Cook's Olympic medal-winning ride Miners Frolic. “When I was stable jockey to Josh Gifford, Nick and his wife Valda had nice horses and I was very fortunate to ride a lot of winners for them. Then, Aldaniti came along and won the National,” said Bob.“They were the most lovely owners and lovely, easy people to ride for. The horses always, always came first, and they were fantastic to deal with, and…

FALLS Feel for the hunt subscriber who had a fall — and whose 17hh mount landed on him, leading to stitches in a place where “no man wants stitching”. Luckily, the rider was otherwise unharmed, and I hear there may well be a special award at the tumblers’ club dinner. One just wonders what the trophy will look like… EVENTING Lots of riders trying to make sense of which classes are what in the new system, with names changing all over the place. “I’ve only just stopped saying pre-novice,” one said gloomily. INJURIES A rider’s Muggle boyfriend bellowed at her to come out as her horse had “hurt all his legs”. Having sprinted in panic, but unable to see anything, the rider looked at where the Muggle pointed, only to…

THE Smashington Vale’s stud groom, Johnny, watches Emma, the Smashington Vale’s newest subscriber, struggle with her highly overexcited hunter as the field leave the meet. The handsome bay six-year-old, who came from Leicestershire for the sort of money that would buy you a nice new car, has his head so high in the air that Emma has virtually no control. He approaches the first hunt jump at a sideways bounce, with Emma nervously crouched up his neck. His stag-like leap — vertical, off all fours — means that she smashes her face on his neck and gets a nosebleed. “Needs a standing martingale,” he tells her bluntly when the field judders to a halt 10 minutes later. “But won’t a standing martingale restrict his head when he’s jumping?” asks Emma.…

Make sure you are being clear in the transitions by using the correct aids and sitting straight in your body. Avoid tipping to the inside or outside. Focus on the quality of the canter. To gain more impulsion your horse must be going in a balanced, rhythmical way while being reactive to your aids. If your horse falls to the inside of the circle, use more inside leg to support him and try some transitions on a straight line to correct him. Check that the connection in the rein contact doesn’t change during the transition. He may need adjusting, through the use of a give and retake or even a scratch on the wither, to help him stay in balance.…

JUDY YOUNG, owner of Hope Valley Saddlery, says in terms of non-saddlery items, LeMieux is “the success story of the century”. “Whatever they bring out, sells out,” she says. “They do a really good job of what they produce, and it’s bang on the money every time. We buy masses of their products and can’t keep them in stock, it’s fantastic.” Judy agrees that comfort tack has been a huge seller, and that bridle-fitting will be “the next big thing”. “But bling is on the way back down, it’s gone over the top now,” she adds. “It’s more about having a personalised twist now; bespoke hats to match your saddles — the possibilities are endless.” The trend for a multitude of different stirrups has also peaked, she believes, with the…

DRYING MITTS Wick efficiently and quickly and keep dogs super-warm throughout the winter months. £18 ruffandtumble dogcoats.com TASTY HORSE TREATS Pelleted treats made using apple and mint, micronized cooked linseed and plant fibres. From £3.49 equimins.com CURVED SILVER CHAIN BROWBAND Made from sparkly fashion jewellery and quality European leather. £26.99 collegiatesaddlery.co.uk FLEECE COOLER This lightweight, wicking fleece features an anti-pill finish and nylon overlay at the shoulders to stop rubbing. From £39.99 weatherbeeta.co.uk FLY VEIL Great for helping to protect your horse’s ears from flies or noise and available in a range of colours. From £29.99 equiport.co.uk TASTY TREATS These tasty high-fibre treats are made from natural ingredients and contain flavours of essential oils. £6.50 for 5kg baileyshorsefeeds.co.…

FIFTY SHADES OF HAY BY DAVID ASHFORTH OH this is funny. It’s clever, and the writer’s enjoyment of being clever oozes through every page and every seamless link as he dissects the names of racehorses — from the legendary to the “also-rans” — showing off an encyclopaedic knowledge of how each came to be named. Read it cover to cover, or dip in and pick out a “jolly good name” — Au Renoir (2010), for example, by Peintre Celebre out of Goodbye. Interspersed with the odd history lesson — and I’m talking the juicy bits of history, more 17th-century Daily Mail than school textbook — this book provides many an anecdote to amuse friends at the pub or dinner party. You could win pub quizzes with its assistance, too. It…

WHEN I was first asked to go out for a day’s hunting for H&H, I was a little dubious, for several reasons. One, I have had two of the worst falls of my riding career while out hunting; two, I hate riding in the cold and wet and ending up standing on top of a wind-blown hill in freezing rain; and three, I ride all year long and do I really need to do this sort of thing for my out-of-season relaxation? As usual, I was easily persuaded and, with the promise of a fun day out with the Grafton on a Saturday with fellow eventer and joint-master Tam Leeming and her husband Tom, I duly accepted. The adventure began with an invitation to a dinner party at the Leemings’…

THE hot gossip in the Shire counties is of nought but the imminent conclaves of the Quorn and Cottesmore hunts to decide the destiny of these two famous packs. The excitement is palpable, like anticipating smoke from the Sistine Chapel. The advantages of unification are manifest and have already been observed in an earlier issue of H&H (news, 25 October), but many of the old guard (and some new) are finding it hard to accept that things have changed so quickly in recent years that a merger is necessary. One thing is certain, Brexit negotiations will be, by comparison, a walk in the park. I spent three happy years at the Quorn when they were still hunting four days a week. I have been astonished when I’ve been through areas…

THE TIVERTON STAGHOUNDS FOUND in the valleys of the Exe, Taw and Torridge in Devon. Masters: Stafford Blake, Debbie Aplin and Phil Snell Huntsman: Andrew Herniman Whipper-in: Mark Langford, who also looks after the horses with his partner Chloe Campbell. Hon secretary: Geraldine Roberts, tivertonstaghounds@live.co.uk Policeman 16: Not only does he have a wonderful voice and drive to back it up, Policeman (sire Cottesmore Galway, dam Tiverton Polish) is also very successful on the flags. This summer, he was reserve champion staghound at Dunster and champion doghound in the staghound classes at Honiton. Young entry: Olivia Langford, who will be three in December, was out for her second day. Old entry: Maddie Scott was riding Debbie Aplin’s 19-year-old Argentinian polo pony.…

Kings EC, Herefords | Hartpury University & Hartpury College, Glos | Coleg Cambria, Flintshire | Hunters Equestrian, Glos “I felt as if we were on a bit of a loop at novice,” said Melanie, who rode the eight-year-old Showmaker son to elementary qualifier and freestyle wins at Kings EC before dominating the elementary and medium freestyles at Hartpury. “But spending time staying there [at novice] and not pushing him too hard has worked. He has matured so much, both physically and mentally, and he’s coping really well with the environment. “Our music is a bit of twist on a classical theme, which suits his rhythm,” added Melanie. “It’s all coming together, hopefully” Occasionally, a horse is worth fighting over — as in the case of Waverley Dante. Greg Sims’ girlfriend,…

SHEEPGATE, LINCS 15 Nov: prelim 17Q silv (K Hancox).— 1, Oberonza (C Patrick) 68.1; 2, BKS Brandini (T Wood) 66.72. prelim 19Q silv (S Skelton).— 1, BKS Brandini 65.42. nov 23 gold (K Hancox).— 1, Dan Icarus (N Barker) 68.33. silv.— 1, Wild Rose NG (L Spradbury) 67.71. brnz.— 1, Oberonza 65.63; 2, Oxcombe Marsvind (C Louis) 61.04. nov 37Q gold (M Gedge).— 1, Woodlander Forty Licks (K Jones) 65.74; 2, Iwan (N Barker) 63.89. silv.— 1, Eau De Vie VH Kriekenhoff ES (F Skinner) 68.33; 2, Eclips Strono (H Brown) 66.67; 3, Wild Rose NG 66.67. elem 40 silv.— 1, Eclips Strono (S Ringrose) 67.58. brnz.— 1, Eau De Vie VH Kriekenhoff ES 64.35; 2, Royal Charter II (D Edwards) 63.23. elem 53Q gold (S Skelton).— 1, Iwan 75.74;…

Tillyoch EC, Aberdeenshire Georgina Chalmers-Gray collected a brace of prelim victories — both with plus-73% — and stood runner-up at novice with Gems Kristina. The seven-year-old chestnut Welsh Section D mare was purchased by Georgina’s mother, Rebecca, direct from the Gems Stud off the hill and unhandled. “She was tricky to back and can still be sharp and sensitive to ride,” explained Georgina. “She’s done well this year and qualified for the Royal International Horse Show (RIHS) in the BSPS Heritage championship and the Picton novice final at the NPS Championships at Malvern. “Her scores on Saturday were super and she was very willing. She’s clever and a quick learner. Next year I’d like to aim for mountain and moorland working hunter pony classes and some eventing as she has…

Nov 13: Horse & Rider Clobber 80cm.— 1, Santox (P Sealey); 2, My Fletcher (E Cullimore); 3, Blowing A Hoolie (S Baker). D&H 85cm.— 1, Mr Valentino III (T Marsh); 2, Santox; 3, Young Loula (M White). Olivia’s World 90cm veteran.— 1, Kilmastulla Amazon (D Paget); 2, Tarquin M (D Paget); 3, Sannan Valley Promise (T Yate). D&H 95cm.— 1, Merllyns Mondena (S Muirhead); 2, Helms Tolu (J Helm); 3, Dun Over (H Tiley). D&H 1.05m.— 1, Ruxton Contessa (H Hughes); 2, Gogo Bantos (H Johnstone); 3, Grabiella (K Moss). D&H 1.10m.— 1, RLE Touch Of Fabulous (H Tiley); 2, Lady Comtess (A Spratt); 3, Eagle Van Campfort (J Crawford). Nov 14: D&H 85cm.— 1, Tullycars Peekaboo (M Cowan); 2, My Fletcher; 3, Santox. D&H 95cm.— 1 & 2, Tinx…

I WOULD like to congratulate the team at Keysoe for the improvements they’ve made. Opening up the long side of the building to incorporate a hospitality area makes the arena look much bigger and if anything wasn’t right, they tried hard to make it better. The only downside was that apart from the grand prix, the prize money wasn’t that great. A second world ranking class would be ideal, but I realise organiser Simon Bates funds everything himself, so it’s not fair to moan because he hasn’t found more money. COVERING COSTS MY suggestion is that if we can’t have another ranking class, the prize money for the other classes should be improved. I won a class on day one, but that won’t come anyway near covering my entry fee.…

GUY WILLIAMS IN FLYING FORM AT the CSI2* St Lo, France, Great Britain’s Guy Williams was in typically flying form. He won a brace of 1.35m speed classes on the 10-year-old Belgian-bred Igor Van De Dorpshoeve and finished runner-up in Sunday’s grand prix on Rouge De Ravel. ALLEN LIFTS LONGINES TROPHY IRELAND’S Bertram Allen rode the 12-year-old Gin Chin Van Het Lindenhof (pictured below) to victory in the 1.55m grand prix of Maastricht, in the Netherlands, lifting the Longines Trophy and pocketing €33,000 (£29,170). In a seven-rider jump-off for the finale of this CSI4* show, Bertram held off the challenge from Dutchman Gerco Schröder (Glock’s Cognac Champblanc), with Kim Emmen (Delvaux) taking third. Ireland’s Darragh Kenny and Balou Du Reventon recorded the fastest time but with one rail down, for…

BY the time you read this, the British 2018/19 point-to-point season will be well under way. We may be fast approaching winter, when waterlogging and frost are the normal threats, but the uncharacteristically dry summer and autumn has meant quick ground is actually proving to be the biggest challenge. In the dim and distant past (when I used to think 11 stone was heavy), I had the odd ride through the summer months, which was great for keeping my eye in and the “pace-clock” in check. Nowadays, I think 11 stone is light, so when I zip up my racing bag in June, it invariably stays firmly shut until November. The inevitable downside is that the eyes boggle slightly through the down season and the “pace-clock” requires a little recalibration…

THE welfare of horses and riders took centre stage at the FEI general assembly. New recommendations over helmets, dealing with suspected head injuries, anti-doping and cataloguing horse and rider injuries were among the key talking points at the meeting in Bahrain (16-20 November). Peter Whitehead, chairman of the FEI medical committee, said new tools have been created. “Concussion isn’t always easy to recognise,” he said. “In line with some other sports, I’m working on an assessment form and, hopefully, an app that can be used by anyone to see if concussion may have occurred.” Dr Whitehead said it is important to listen to, for example, fence judges who have seen a fall, and a new online flowchart will help establish if concussion has occurred. The committee has also been working…

OLE Canadian showjumper Mac Cone’s 2008 Olympic team silver medal-winning ride has died aged 22. The KWPN gelding had success on the international circuit and represented Canada in a number of Nations Cups. IBR MOLLEGARD The first horse Hayley Watson-Greaves produced through the levels to grand prix has died aged 17. “Harry” went on to enjoy much of his successful competition career with Sara Branch. MONIVEA MAGIC RAINBOW The successful 12hh part-bred Welsh section A has been put down aged 22. He stood champion and reserve at the Royal International, took a championship title at Great Yorkshire Show and won at HOYS.…

The CLA, the membership organisation for owners of land, property and businesses in rural areas, said the law on trespass is “relatively simple but often unsatisfactory from the owner’s perspective”. CLAlegal adviserAndrew Gillett told H&H: “The common law allows the person in possession of the land the right to forcibly remove a trespasser if they refuse to leave when asked, but only where no more force than reasonably necessary is used. “Because of the potential physical danger and the risk of committing a criminal offence if too much force is deemed to have been used, it is not usually recommended landowners follow this route.” Mr Gillett added that bringing a court claim is an option but “because of the high costs involved in taking a matter to court, it is…

RIDERS have been urged to be on the lookout for sleepy bats — and to take appropriate action should they find one. Mary Bannister, from Hertfordshire, found a snoozing bat on her horse’s rug, which had been folded up over a wall in an open barn. At this time of year, bats should be hibernating, but mild weather may have led them to wake up — or they may have seen a rug, unused since last winter, as the ideal roosting spot. Being aroused from hibernation expends a great deal of energy and can lead to starvation, the Bat Conservation Trust warns, so anyone who finds one should call the national bat helpline on 0345 1300 228. The trust also has volunteer groups across the country, members of which can…

Sir — Reading Samantha Thurman-Baker’s “Fix it” (8 November) brought back memories of the halcyon days in the 1970s, learning to ride at the Thurman family’s Turville Valley Stud. My sister, Nic, and I spent every Saturday helping out from dawn ’til dusk in the eager hope of a free ride as well as our £3 lesson. But the highlight of our year was the summer camp when we could immerse ourselves in everything equine. The week culminated in a hotly contested gymkhana which featured a parents’ race, one year starring my unhorsey mother climbing aboard poor “Checka” and looking for a place to put her handbag. It was before the days of health and safety, and I’m sure our seats were vastly improved by riding the ponies bareback in…

FARRIER NAIL HEART NECKLACE Handmade in sterling silver and shaped into a beautiful heart. From £45 equestrian jewellers.co.uk EQUETECH TWEED PONCHO This elegant tweed wrap is easy to wear and will instantly update an outfit. Made from top-quality English wool. £119.95 equetech.com AZTEC DIAMOND DIAMANTE BELT Crafted from the highest quality real leather and embellished with a thick insert of black diamante. £60 aztecdiamond equestrian.com UNICORN POO BATH BOMBS Dissolve these rainbow-coloured, raspberry-scented bath bombs in warm water and liven up any post-yard bath. £7.99 thepresentfinder.co.uk TOPAZ LONG-LINE JACKET The ultimate warm winter jacket, this padded coat features a hood and deep zip side pockets. £99.99 dublinclothing.co.uk ALORA CHESTNUT BOOTS Long, lean and slim-fitting boots that combine technology and style…

WILLBERRY FRIENDSHIP BRACELET Hannah’s Willberry Wonder Pony charity receives £10 from each sale of this bracelet. £35 hihosilver.co.uk ELITE LUXUS RIDING BOOTS Made with soft leather for the utmost comfort, these children’s boots have front lace detail and stitching on the toe. £84.50 rhinegold.eu TEK TEAM HALF-ZIP SWEATSHIRT This bright top features the technology to keep children warm and dry, while staying comfy all day. £45 ariat.com RIDE-ON TOY Children feel as if they’re riding, because they have to rise and fall to propel this simulation horse. Available in various colours. £179.99 ponycycle.com SADDLECRAFT SPARKLY CONTRAST BREECHES These snazzy breeches come in pink or royal blue with diamante detail. £24.99 wefi.co.uk HALE PINK UNICORN WELLIES These super-cute wellies are hard-wearing…

DUBLIN COSY SOCKS These bright socks made from fleece are soft and comfortable, and ideal to wear with your country boots. From £4.99 dublinclothing.co.uk INJURED JOCKEYS FUND POWER PACK Stay powered with this handy, credit card-sized unit that can charge your phone or tablet on the go. £10 ijf.org.uk MARK TODD BOBBLE HAT Winter-warming bobble hat with a fleece lining and faux fur bobble, available in navy or grey. £12.99 marktoddcollection.co.uk ‘TALLY HO’ COASTERS This set of six quirky coasters, featuring Emma Earnshaw’s unique collage illustrations, will look great in a horsey home. £12 onceuponatable.co.uk ‘HOME IS WHERE MY HORSE IS’ WOODEN SIGN This fun hanging sign with a hessian cord would be a great gift for any horse owner. £10…

BUILT on 50 years of engineering cutting-edge performance apparel, Musto is the world’s top sailing brand and a leader in British equestrian and shooting. Driven by innovation, the desire to revolutionise is what makes Musto a market-leader. Every piece across every collection has been precision-engineered. This ensures the exacting standards that have become the brand’s signature trait worldwide. With access to 45,000 nautical miles in the Volvo Ocean Race, and several laboratory conditions, each fabric used across Musto’s collections has been vigorously tested to ensure it stands up to the brand’s expectations of keeping people protected in all environments. And Musto’s precision engineering doesn’t stop there. All its garments are tailored to the specific needs of the wearer. Seam placements, fabric choices, hidden features and ergonomic styling all help give…

ALTHOUGH a fire destroyed records that confirm the exact date the pack was founded, the pedigrees in the Foxhound Stud Book are traceable back to 1760. Owned solely by the Fitzwilliam family, whose current representative is Sir Philip Naylor-Leyland Bt MFH, the Fitzwilliam hounds have always been kennelled at Milton Park. Having occupied Milton since 1502, it is understood the family would have had hounds to hunt the hare prior to this. Ever since an 18th-century Earl Fitzwilliam was unable to find a replacement for a snapped leather, the hunt staff uniquely wear a stirrup leather across their shoulder, as well as their distinctive green collar. The largely arable country covers an area of approximately 600 square miles, from Stamford in the north, to Higham Ferrers in the south. With…

HUNTERS EQUESTRIAN 14 Nov: prelim 15Q gold (C Hogg).— 1, Haribo II (M Williamson) 65.2. silv.— 1, George Stubbs (K Byrd) 69.8; 2, Midnight Morn (E Andreski) 65. brnz.— 1, Jonny Irish (H Vollner) 61. prelim 17Q gold (S Cumine).— 1, Haribo II 68.44. silv.— 1, Big Ted II (T Price) 68.1; 2, George Stubbs 67.06; 3, Midnight Morn 65.34. brnz.— 1, Jonny Irish 62.93. nov 22 gold (C Hogg).— 1, Fenix (L Seal) 73.62; 2, Hawtins Quattro (L Elliott) 72.93; 3, Ivan Carlos (L Wollen) 72.06. silv.— 1, Damaskas (K Vince) 68.27; 2, Galway Bay Excelsior (C Livingstone) 67.93; 3, Libertys Diamond II (A Searle) 65.86. brnz.— 1, Big Ted II 66.89; 2, DiMinutive (K Byam Cook) 65.86. nov 38Q gold (S Cumine).— 1, Hawtins Quattro 73.7; 2, Ice…

MERRIST WOOD 17 nov: prelim FSM silv (L Selway).— 1, Don Caesar (L Ashby) 60.83. nov FSM Q gold (L Selway).— 1, Bailey B (J Hill) 77.5; 2, Quartz (A Ross) 77.22; 3, Galanci RS (D Coakley) 76.11. silv.— 1, Ferrara II (D Douglass) 79.72; 2, Biagotte RT (G Spence) 72.77; 3, Kambara SC (G Taylor) 70.83. brnz.— 1, Max 821 (L Towle) 65.27; 2, Tilton Ice (R Baker) 62.5. elem FSM Q gold (L Waller).— 1, Keystone Diego (G Davis) 75.23; 2, Dassett Quick Fix (Z Sopp) 73.84; 3, Quartz 70.96. silv.— 1, Danaulied (K Lawrence) 73.07; 2, Igor Du Banny (R Almond) 72.88; 3, Murphys Law XII (A Bettle) 70.57. med FSM Q gold.— 1, Mallards Sirena (J Hill) 69.83. silv.— 1, Fiorello (R Marsden) 70; 2, Tango…

Quob, Hants | Snowball Farm, Bucks | The Croft, Berks List 1 judge Sue McMahon told Malene that she and Dourados (Desperados x Rubinstein) were “a 70% test waiting to happen and she needed to be braver and ride for eights”. The pep talk worked and the pair are one step closer to their ultimate goal of prix st georges. Malene also credits a move to a yard with safer hacking with contributing to “Woody’s” improvement. “He’s naturally bone idle but the hacking makes him more forward. Everything comes easy to him so he doesn’t need to drill the movements,” said Malene, who trains with Spencer Wilton. Spencer’s horse Danny Zucco, owned and bred by Jen Goodman, had a good run out at Snowball Farm with Darren Hicks. The five-year-old…

Richmond EC, N Yorks | Manor Grange Stud, W Yorks Jamais Fair Lady won both the novice and elementary freestyle classes dancing to upbeat pop music at Richmond EC, gaining novice qualification. Deborah had an anxious summer after the six-year-old developed an intermittent cough which proved tricky for vets to diagnose. “She had a lot of scopes and swabs, and a course of steroids. I couldn’t school her, and at one stage thought I’d have to retire her to become a broodmare. Eventually we did a ridden endoscope that found nothing and treated her for ulcers in case the stress of the illness had brought them on — a week later she came right,” explained Deborah who runs her own livery yard. “We had a few weeks to get her…

Keysoe CSI2*/YH*, Beds THIS has been an incredible year for Holly Smith. The Leicestershire rider has spent much of the season competing at five-star level before performing with great credit at the World Equestrian Games. Next month, she will be jumping in front of her home crowd at Olympia. Holly arrived at Britain’s only two-star indoor international show with just two horses: a five-year-old and a grade A, and she waited until the world ranking grand prix to make her mark. The first-round course, designed by Nigel Jess and Kelvin Bywater, contained plenty of related distances and dogleg turns. Fences fell everywhere and just nine pairs jumped off. Ireland’s Billy Twomey took the lead on a new ride, the Dutch-bred Casall stallion Chat Botte ED, but two horses later Holly…

23 Nov: CSIYH1* 5yo 2-phase.— 1, 16 tied. CSI2* 1.10m 2-phase.— 1, Golden Grove AIT A (P Shaw) GBR; 2, The Maharanee (T Payne); 3, Fantasea (E Cunningham). CSIYH* 6yo 2-phase.— 1, 16 tied. CSI2* 1.20m 2-phase.— 1, Piana (N Emery) GBR; 2 & 3, Why Not Fado & Galano Ter Klomp (P Shaw). CSI2* 1.30m 2-phase.— 1, Special Warrior (L Whitaker) GBR; 2, Zanbowa Z (Y Davis) GBR; 3, Encore (L Cubitt) NZL. CSI2* 1.40m speed.— 1, Zilverster II (Y Davis) GBR; 2, Gunner (J Stockdale) GBR; 3, Glenavadra Brilliant (J Whitaker) GBR. 24 Nov: CSIYH* 5yo single phase.— 1, 16 tied. CSI2* 1.15m speed.— 1, Golden Grove AIT A; 2, Piana; 3, The Maharanee. CSIYH* 6yo single phase.— 1, 18 tied. CSI2* medium tour final.— 1, Its Business…

CSI2* De Peelbergen Winter Tour Week 2, Kronenberg, Netherlands ROBERT SMITH and the 11-year-old Cimano E were crowned victors of Sunday’s 1.45m grand prix after a nail-biting jump-off. From late draw, this in-form British combination soared into the lead in a mammoth 18-strong jump-off in 38.96 seconds. This was a clear half second ahead of his nearest rivals. Robert earned a cool €8,250, as well as a new bicycle, with the gelding he co-owns with Becky Ravilious after 53 starters went to post. “I’ve had a few plummy draws in jump-offs recently and it’s not worked out, so it was good to make use of a decent one this time,” said Robert. “He had the last fence down in the jump-off on the Friday so he was due this. “He’s…

TWO cracking greys set the weekend alight with contrasting performances. Let’s start up north at Haydock, where my old mate Nigel Twiston-Davies won the Betfair Chase with his often maligned (unreasonably so) Bristol De Mai. Simon Munir and Isaac Souede have put a great deal of money into our sport and this grey horse — who thrives at Haydock to the extent his runs there are almost a stone better than at any other racecourse — deserved to win this. The free-running seven-year-old put the opposition to the sword and it paid off. There was plenty of activity before the race — a coursewalk to look at the ground and then a great deal of muttering about the fences, their size and stiffness. Even Nicky Henderson was seen shouldering a…

VINE & CRAVEN, BARBURY RACECOURSE, SUNDAY 25 NOVEMBER 4,5&6yo open maiden.— 1, D Smith’s Equus Leader (P Bryan) M Bowen. restricted.— 1, A Bird’s Lily’s Got Wings (J Andrews) J Wadland. mixed open.— 1, J Gerard-Pearse’s Shotavodka (T O’Brien) H Brookshaw. intermediate.— 1, S Edwards’ Skyhill Allstar (H Edwards) S Edwards. conditions.— 1, K Loads & A Hill’s Hawkhurst (G Andrews) A Hill. open maiden.— 1, T Underwood’s Shallamar (P York) T Underwood. NORTH HEREFORDSHIRE, EATON HALL, SATURDAY 24 NOVEMBER Hunt members.— 1, S Roach’s Irish Anthem (I Robinson) J O’Shea. confined.— 1, J Warner’s Mr Burgees (B Moorcroft) B Moorcroft. mixed open.— 1, G Barlow’s Bear’s Affair (A Edwards) P Rowley. restricted.— 1, G Briscoe’s Road To Rome (T O’Brien) J O’Shea. open maiden (for mares).— 1, M Oliver’s…

MORE information on detection times for drugs used to treat horses, but which are not allowed in competition, will be published. This comes as part of a full review of the FEI’s equine prohibited substances list. Dr McEwen said while there have been “very few problems” with the list itself, it was “time to have a full review”, by an independent panel of experts. “I have been one of those criticising the FEI for not enough [information on] detection times, and vets have asked for this time and time again,” he said. “We had nine new detection times this year and [FEI veterinary director] Göran Akerström has promised me he is going to provide more and more — I’ll hold him to that.” Riders can also expect more blood-testing from…

THE FEI announced at the general assembly last week that it would accept bids from organisers wishing to host single-discipline World Championships in 2022. Following a lack of “realistic” bids to host the next World Equestrian Games (WEG) in its current format, the FEI said it was to open the bidding process for single-discipline bids, although with preference given to multi-discipline bids (news, 22 November). H&H asked riders, organisers and coaches their thoughts on the decision, and the future of WEG… RICKY BALSHAW: ‘AN INCREDIBLE SHAME’ RICKY, who competed at the 2010 and 2014 WEGs in para dressage, winning silver at the former, has since retired but has taken up para reining, which he hoped might become part of WEG in future. “This is absolutely appalling, and I don’t like…

MONET’S GARDEN The three-time Grade One winner and 2016 Retraining of Racehorses horse of the year has died aged 20. Trained by Nicky Richards, he won Aintree’s Old Roan Chase, which was renamed after him, three times. GLENCARRIG DOLPHIN Sue Browne and Nicola Baguley’s stallion picked up the most titles at the British Connemara Pony Society awards on 18 November, winning five trophies. Close behind was Smokin Gun, who took home four awards. LIONHEART The part-bred Clydesdale, who served with Nottinghamshire Police and the City of London Police’s mounted branch, has retired after 14 years of service. He will enjoy “grooming and relaxing hacking”.…

WINTER An email arrives at H&H Towers stating, “As spring’s just around the corner…” Whoa there. We’re all for a bit of optimism, but three and a bit months is a pretty long corner. BLACK FRIDAY Trainer Fergal O’Brien had what has to be pretty much the best Black Friday offer, ever. “A reminder we’re offering the same incredible deal as last year,” he said. “Buy two racehorses and pay for both racehorses.” Can’t beat it. MORE BLACK FRIDAY On the same note, and in reply to Fergal, other equestrians came up with some more unbeatable offers. “Buy two on a payment plan — 100% up front and nothing to pay for three years,” suggested one. Another added: “Buy two and get a third full price?” But would you loan,…

LET SLEEPING DOGS LIE Sir — Talk about hogging my issue of Horse & Hound. I just thought I’d show you my part-bred Saluki, Dray (left), catching up with the latest hound news. Or maybe he’s trying to hide my copy, so that I don’t get a look-in! Claire Hindle Sidmouth, Devon SAFETY FIRST Sir — The safety of horses and riders on our highways and byways has been a pressing issue for a number of years. Even more so now with the news of a revised edition of the Highway Code being considered (news, 25 October). But how do we get the message “Please pass horses slowly at 15mph or less and by at least one-metre spacing” over to non-horse-aware road users? Horsebox manufacturers are possibly missing a trick…

SAMANTHA ROBERTS SAMANTHA has been showing since she was nine, and turned professional in 2004. She has produced many national champions, with multiple wins at the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS), Royal International and Olympia. Based near Winchester, she breaks and trains her team of ponies and teaches clients. TRAINING THE STARS NOT all natives find canter easy but with correct training they can be taught to use their powerful hindlegs well. One of my successful ponies, the New Forest Knavesash Knight, took a long time to gain his balance but this was achieved through hacking, polework and schooling. He eventually became balanced, powerful and supple in canter, going on to win HOYS in 2017.…

● Vere likes simple bits like a rubber-covered pelham or a loose-ring eggbutt snaffle. “I saw one, liked it and had it copied,” says Vere. “You never stop learning in this game. As my father used to say, ‘If you think you know nothing, you’re on the brink of wisdom.’” ● Vere’s feeding practices are similarly traditional, including home-grown hay and oats. “A chap came discussing supplements with me once and asked, ‘What do you balance them with?’ I replied, ‘Work!’” ● Horses hack all round the farm, so they never grow accustomed to certain routes and start getting nappy. ● Each horse finishes its work with a Polo, wash-off and often a few minutes’ grazing in hand.…

WHETHER you’re all about the plainest, darkest havana or you sport enough bling to put Oxford Street’s Christmas lights to shame, you have probably changed the tack and equipment you buy and use over the years. Anyone who took proud charge of their first pony in days gone by would no doubt have also been the owner of an unadorned flat leather bridle, eggbutt snaffle and plain reins, not to mention a horrible string girth. But look for equipment now and you’ll be confronted with a dazzling array of choice, from crystals of every size, shape and description on any surface that could possibly hold them, to saddles that match your helmet, to boots and bridles claiming to work all manner of wonders. ‘If I could get everyone out of…

SHOTGUN CARTRIDGE BANGLE This two-tone bangle is made of silver and brass with optional stone sets. From £80 equestrianjewellers.co.uk CHATSWORTH BELT Suede belt made in the UK, with brass fittings, a nubuck lining and a subtle stirrup design on the loop. £59.99 mackenzieandgeorge.com RUPERT BOOT BAG These beautiful bags are handcrafted using British craftsmanship to create a strong, robust and timeless piece. £1,600 englana.com BILLYLINKS CUFFLINKS Complete with a presentation box, these cartridge cufflinks are on target for country gentlemen. £15 per set ladida-andover.com GENTLEMEN’S HUNT CROP This crop features a plaited leather stock, sterling silver collar and a carved, polished buffalo horn crook handle. £219 argentequus.com STABLE INSULATED VEST Layer-up in this versatile quilted vest as the cooler weather…

CHILDÉRIC BESPOKE SADDLE Created with performance and comfort in mind, and features bespoke options on leather colour and trim. From £3,900 childericsaddles.co.uk PERSONALISED BELT Italian leather belts with detachable buckles and a short message of your choosing inscribed on the inside. From £70 peachybelts.co.uk PERSONALISED WOODEN DANDY BRUSH This fine-quality wooden dandy brush is handcrafted in the UK to your bespoke specification. £25 gallopguru.co.uk A DEVON RIDE WITH EVENTER MARY KING Ride on Dartmoor with Mary King, stay in five-star Bovey Castle and enjoy gourmet picnics en route. From £2,000 liberty-trails.com BESPOKE CUSHIONS Have your racing colours appliquéd on to a silk cushion, with piping, zip and feather filler. From £65 winningmemories bespokecushions.co.uk BESPOKE HAND-PAINTED MASTERPIECES Hand-paint any design of…

HUNT STAFF BENEFIT SOCIETY Devotion by Jo Stockdale £6.50 plus p&p 01285 653001, hsbs.org.uk WORLD HORSE WELFARE Christmas Parade £3.95 plus p&p 01953 497239, worldhorsewelfare.org THE INJURED JOCKEYS FUND Silent Footfall by Daniel Crane £7.50 plus p&p 08080 453453, shop.ijf.org.uk EQUINE GRASS SICKNESS FUND Shetland Ponies by Jacqueline Stanhope £6.50 plus p&p 0131 445 6257, grasssickness.org.uk PETER O’SULLEVAN CHARITABLE TRUST Christmas Eve by Hubert de Watrigant £8 plus p&p 020 8333 1411, thevoiceofracing.com MARK DAVIES INJURED RIDERS FUND Rocking Horse by Lottie Cole £6.50 for a pack of 6 incl p&p 01726 813156, mdirf.co.uk BOB CHAMPION CANCER TRUST Away We Go by Ali Stearn £8 incl p&p 020 7924 3553, bobchampion.org.uk THE RACEHORSE SANCTUARY AND REHOMING…

‘Before you know what has happened, he has locked on, and it takes considerable strength to discourage him’ SIZE isn’t everything, but it is the first thing you notice about the 17.2hh Asbo. “He is enormous,” says James Buckle MFH of his “perfect horse” on whom he field masters with the Essex and Suffolk. “He has to have his shoes made specially for him because his feet are like dinner plates.” Asbo’s size meant his early education was steady: “He has always been so big that we didn’t rush him and he was five before he first came out hunting.” The patient beginning paid off and Asbo, now 13, loves his work — almost too much. “He is an enthusiast, which can be annoying at times,” admits James. “He gets…

Field House EC, Staffs | South View Arena, Cheshire Lindsay Wilcox-Reid’s Field House winner, Beckhouse Able, is a part-Hackney gelding bred by Ian Smith, and was bought just over a year ago from Helen Lowe. “I wasn’t looking for a horse but I saw his photo on Facebook and the next thing I was messaging to find out a bit more about him,” explained Lindsay, who trains with Angela Weiss. “He has an amazing personality and plenty of ability. That was his first proper show and only his second novice. Sadly we’ve run out of time to qualify for the winters but, work permitting, we’ll aim for the summers and move on up the levels.” Helen herself won the medium 73 at the same venue riding Westhills Dixie Chick, by…

Solihull EC, W Mids | Vale View EC, Leics Holly Bates, daughter of showing producer Jo Bates, landed three wins and a second with two horses at Solihull. Nine-year-old Connemara stallion Cashelbay Rocket headed both prelims, while Springwind Vangelis won novice 23 with 71.87% and was second in a novice 39. “Rocket won at Horse of the Year Show this year and has qualified for Olympia, so we’re keeping him going until then,” said Holly. Springwind Vangelis (George) is a seven-year-old event horse who belongs to Lizzie Matthews. “Lizzie has evented him up to intermediate level,” added Holly. “She asked me to do dressage with him over the winter and that was our first competition together.” The Native Associated Championships at Vale View was successful for showing producer Sam Roberts…

WINTER is here and all over the UK we are throwing our carefully planned fashion choices to the wind. The winter equestrian is a strange beast, with no recognisable features in the morning as their woolly hat and scarf practically join in the middle, while they creep around the yard and blind those in their wake with a head torch. Motivation can be a challenge for even the most dedicated. While professionals tend to be applauded for their dedication, there’s no doubt that some of the most committed riders are those with full-time jobs, often mucking out before work and coming back afterwards. You wouldn’t catch many top professionals putting their gin and tonics down to ride after 9pm. It’s not an easy time to ride young horses. I’m very…

1 place at the Liverpool International show on offer 2 wins for working rider Polly Shaw 3 times there were 16 horse-and-rider combinations in equal first place in young horse classes 4 flat caps worn by Irish riders while walking the course. Is this their new fashion accessory? 5 the number of pounds needed to buy the show’s favourite beverage — a hot chocolate with a tot of Baileys, topped up with an enormous dollop of cream 6 members of the Whitaker family in action 7 the number of course-designers who were part of the Keysoe team 8 weeks since rider Charlie Jones joined Nick Skelton and Laura Kraut’s Ardencote Stud team 9 different nationalities competing here 10 out of 10 for the upgraded facilities…

CSI5*-W Madrid, Spain GERMANY’S Daniel Deusser celebrated his second World Cup victory this season when topping a strong field in Madrid, Spain, on Sunday riding Tobago Z. In the sixth leg of the Western European League series, 10 combinations made it through to the jump-off, in which Daniel and the 10-year-old stallion son of Tangelo VD Zuuthoeve pinged home half a second quicker than Steve Guerdat (Ulysse Des Forets) and Sweden’s Irma Karlsson back in third riding Ida Van De Bisschop. “Tobago is very careful and very scopey, and he’s not a hot horse so that really helps in the jump-off because he never rushes, even when he’s under pressure,” said Daniel. “You get the same jump-off whether you’re going fast or slow.” The German rider and Steve Guerdat, who…

Haydock Park Racecourse, Merseyside IN the build-up to Saturday’s Betfair Chase, it was all about the rematch between Gold Cup first and second — Native River and Might Bite — with barely a mention of last year’s 57-length winner, Bristol De Mai. But Nigel Twiston-Davies’ grey returned to one of his favourite haunts to put his four rivals in the shade and confirm that, on his day (which, his trainer admits, is not every day) he is the best chaser in the land. Last year, his victory appeared to owe much to the heavy ground and, possibly the fact that the race looked strong on paper — the runner-up Cue Card was already 12 and on his countdown to retirement. The dry autumn meant contrasting conditions this year and there…

North Herefordshire, Eaton Hall, Welsh Borders TOP training honours went to Cheshire-based Joe O’Shea as the first Welsh Borders area point-to-point meeting took place on the new course at Eaton Hall, situated next to the River Lugg near Leominster. The handler recorded a treble at the fixture with his Road To Rome becoming the first dual winner of the new season, when he and Tommie O’Brien saw off Pearlesque (Natalie Bower) to supplement their maiden victory at Buckfastleigh last week in the restricted contest. “He was placed six times under Rules,” said the winning owner, Graham Briscoe. “We’re going to have to go against better horses now.” Three different jockeys shared the riding honours aboard Joe’s winners, which started when Immy Robinson partnered Irish Anthem to victory in the opening…

I DIDN’T have a horse through my late teens and 20s, but I was lucky enough to do plenty of hunting because my parents and my uncle had horses and they were more than happy to share. Kind friends would also lend me their horses to hunt from time to time. My mother always used to say, “It gives me as much pleasure to see you go out as it does to go myself,” but I never really understood her at the time. Like many of the things your youthful self dismisses as strange about the older generation, it all becomes abundantly clear later in life. ‘I don’t cry often, but hunting always has the power to hit my buttons’ I was pondering all of this while plaiting ponies for…