Working hunters have been out in force over the past few months in a bid to qualify for the Royal International (RIHS) and Horse of the Year Show (HOYS). Here’s a selection of those horses and riders bound for Hickstead or Birmingham in 2016
V-Max
The bay, who also competes in dressage and eventing, topped the lightweights at Three Counties (17-19 June) with livery yard owner Rachel White in the saddle.
I’m A Diamond
V-Max stood overall reserve to the winning heavyweight, I’m A Diamond, in the championship at Three Counties. Owned by Katy Green and ridden by Rory Gilsenan, I’m A Diamond is now heading for HOYS.
Out Of Order
This horse impressed to take its sixth HOYS ticket at Lincolnshire County (22-23 June), where he headed the Cuddy open working hunter qualifier. Ridden by Ginny Rose, the duo pulled off one of only four clear rounds from 19 starters around the David Cole-designed track.
Andor O
After topping the lightweights, Andor O stood champion at Herts County (28-29 May) — an accolade producer Justine Armstrong-Small has been trying to win for 25 years.
Blushing Boy
This 13-year-old by Primitive Star is RIHS bound after taking his ticket at Surrey County (30 May), partnered by Claire Langrish.
Iraklion PP
This eight-year-old mare recorded the sole clear round to clinch her RIHS ticket at Warrington (30 May), piloted by Caroline Playne. The rider was contesting her first workers class in five years.
Royal Gent
Travelling to Devon County Show (19-21 May) was a last minute decision for Vicky Mitson, but it was a wise one — 12-year-old Royal Gent jumped one of eight clear rounds to bag his HOYS ticket.
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Carnsdale Mr Cool
This eight-year-old carried Alice Barnes to victory in the RIHS qualifier at Kelsall Hill Festival of Showing (23 April), earning their open ticket to Hickstead in the process.
