The year of the golden oldie
This has been a year where the Britain has been led to glory by slightly older but incredibly experienced riders such as Geoff Billington and Mary King (pictured). In today’s Horse & Hound (18 October ’07), journalist Pippa Cuckson examines why the oldies have stolen a march on the younger competitors this year.
Eventing’s world class performance manager Yogi Breisner explains: “You need years of experience to consistently produce horses to an international standard. Mature riders are not a hindrance to the team. They help, as they set the parameters and show where it needs to raise its game.”
The stars of 2007
- Geoff Billington, 52, winner of the 2007 Hickstead Derby on Cassabachus
- Mary King, 46, individual silver and team gold medallist at the European eventing championships with Call Again Cavalier
- Tina Fletcher, 42, returned to the limelight after a 14-year gap to capture the Queen Elizabeth II Cup on Overa
Don’t miss Pippa Cuckson’s entertaining feature in this week’s Horse & Hound, on sale Thursday 18 October
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