STALLIONS hitting the heights in top-level dressage and showjumping – think Totilas and Painted Black, Cumano and Peppermill – are nothing new, but in five-star and championship eventing, where the physical demands and risks are greater, they come along less frequently.
Until Chilli Morning reached his full potential with William Fox-Pitt, the premier competing eventing sires in recent memory would have been headed by the flamboyant British-bred Yarlands Summersong, multi-medallist with France’s Marie-Christine Duroy, plus his son Leprince Des Bois (eighth at Burghley in 2012 with Germany’s Kai Rüder).
There were also the Barrs’ Welton Apollo (eighth at Badminton in 1989 with Leslie Law), Windfall II, winner of the 2003 Pan-Am Games and the only other stallion to win a five-star (the experimental short-format Kentucky in 2004), with US rider Darren Chiacchia, and the Bunns’ Viceroy, first at Blenheim in 2004 with Pippa Funnell. And the gold-medal French team at the Rio Olympics included an entire – Entebbe De Hus with Karim Loughouag.
“Chilli’s temperament was exceptional,” says William Fox-Pitt, who rode him at championship level. “Of course he had stallion-ish tendencies, and might be brusque if feeling sexy, but he was remarkably well behaved. When he was being ridden, his mind wasn’t on sex, which made him easy to manage.
“I never felt being a stallion inhibited his performance. He was totally brave. Stallions have an arrogance that a gelding doesn’t have. Chilli had total self-belief; he never questioned himself, either on the flat or over a fence.”
This story is from the August 10, 2023 edition of Horse & Hound.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the August 10, 2023 edition of Horse & Hound.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
'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