DAWN GRUNDY and Waverley Florisgold, a 12-year-old mare whom Dawn bought lightly backed at the age of four, were crowned overall medium/advanced medium dressage to music champions, having scored 75.17% for their advanced medium test.
“She’s alert and sensitive so the key is to keep her relaxed. If she’s relaxed – and I’m relaxed as she picks up so much from me – then she can perform,” explained the Northern Dressage Group member. “I do most of her warm-up in walk and when she blows then I know she’s ready to listen.
“She was a superstar today. I was most pleased with her transitions – they were seamless and her neck hardly moved. It’s the best score we’ve ever had.”
Northern Dressage Group were also in the money in the mixed pairs after Hilary Secker on Pinecroft Blaze and Alan Goodenough with Chief’s Looking Glass reigned supreme on 80.36%.
“The test felt amazing, it was the best we’ve ever done,” said Hilary. “We got a 10 for our harmony – we riders love riding together and the horses love being together too so it works really well.”
Mandy Sall made the 13-hour trip from Aberdeen worthwhile with a win in the senior novice with points class. Her winning partner was Worsenden Liberty, a 12-year-old coloured mare, whom Mandy’s been riding for two years.
This story is from the October 12, 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 October 12, 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
Better judges' cover a must to protect the sport's future
A group insurance option has been found to protect the officials showing needs but only if enough sign up
IVF with frozen sperm is a 'milestone' in equine breeding
The first successful use of frozen semen in the technique has been recorded in an American study
Challenging ourselves to be and do better for our horses
The 2024 FEI general assembly heard how we should all challenge ourselves to give horses the best lives possible
Scottish jockeys to benefit from fund's top services
A new centre in Galashiels has been built thanks to a legacy donation
How horse simulators could help encourage people into riding
It is hoped the new model will help break down barriers to the sector for a wide range of people
Many horses' needs aren't met: study finds chance to improve
Researchers say all must ensure horses have space, friends, forage and good experiences
Humble pie
How many ladies does it take to cook a shepherd's pie? It’s a complicated one, says Tessa Waugh, on a quest to find appropriate ovens for the impending hunt auction dinner
I love an underdog
The arrival of the winter mud brings with it a Venetia Williams hat-trick, but the day belongs to a warrior gelding, who never stops trying”
Jumping Jack cracks it
A scopey grey is learning to be quick” anda broodmare makes up for lost time
A star is born
A nine-year-old mare helps put Luxembourg on the map and we celebrate a remarkable grey’s comeback
