‘He shows that cobs can’: eye-catching Irish grey steals the show at the NAF Five Star Winter Dressage Championships

An Irish cob stole hearts and the show after a terrific test and a party in the prize-giving at the NAF Five Star Winter Dressage Championships (15–19 April) at Addington.

Bethany Edginton and her own eight-year-old gelding Lakeview Buddy came second in the PDS Saddles elementary freestyle silver on Thursday (16 April), netting an impressive 72.18%.

A gorgeous hogged grey of solid stature, “Buddy” isn’t a typical sight in the lineup of a prestigious national championship. Nonetheless, he’s a snappy mover with rhythm, precision and expression.

“He came to us via a friend of mine unseen from Ireland,” explains his owner rider Bethany. “We backed him and planned to show.

“However, he gets very excited in a group. The go-arounds were like taking your life in your hands. So, we packed that in and went down the dressage route.”

Buddy’s enthusiasm for a group setting was well and truly on display in the prize giving to the delight of spectators.

“We started off with some unaffiliated dressage, and although he’s not the easiest, he tries so hard,” added Bethany.

“We never thought he’d get to something like this, but he’s just like a dressage horse in a cob’s body. He loves the music and is always spot on with it.”

Bethany’s music came from The Muppets.

“Equidance did my music and it could not have suited Buddy better,” she said. “We wanted something to show off his personality, because he’s not your typical dressage horse. And it did exactly that.”

Bethany is a coach and rider who runs a livery yard in Wakefield, where Buddy is a yard favourite.

“We did the Myerscough regionals in February where he won the elementary and came second in the music. But I still didn’t expect this,” added a delighted Bethany.

“We just came down for the day and I told my boyfriend he’d be going home at half past two, but I’ve kept him waiting!”

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