Jack Whitaker stole the show when he topped the Bolesworth International (2-6 July) CSI4* Al Shira’aa grand prix with the superb 17-year-old stallion D&H Valmy De La Lande.

“I can’t put into words how happy I am for Valmy,” said 24-year-old Jack.

“He’s been in our stable since he was five years old. He’s been an absolute trooper for me and kept my career on the road for the last few years.

“I can’t be more grateful to have him. He just keeps surprising me and pulling it out of the bag every time I jump him.”

Rafael Suarez’s first-round track made use of colour, big bold oxers and delicate uprights to whittle 42 starters – including eight former winners – down to a 13-rider jump-off.

Jack was eighth to go against the clock, straight after his uncle John Whitaker and Equine America Unick Du Francport who had four faults when they tapped the top rail of a tall green upright – and with five still to go he left nothing on the table.

“I thought I had no chance. Even when I went into the lead I was completely shocked,” said Jack.

“I feel like I’m almost playing second fiddle sometimes. Last year I had the fastest time in the jump-off but had the second-last fence down; you always feel like you’re knocking on the door but never winning it. Thank God we could win it.”

Jack credited the Whitaker dynasty and his father Michael for his success.

“Obviously I’ve had an unbelievable start from my father, and an unbelievable leg up in the sport. If I wasn’t any good there would be a problem,” he joked.

“I’ve got to thank my family, I’m very lucky.”

Ireland’s David Simpson and Pjotr Van De Kruishoeve had to settle again for the runner-up spot, in a repeat of his result last year. As third to go in the jump-off David had a large task of keeping the next 10 combinations at bay, and a fast 42.55sec round was the time to beat, but it wasn’t to be.

“It’s a bit like ground hog day at the minute, every time I think I’m going to win something, a Whitaker appears!” said David, who was runner-up to Jack’s cousin William Whitaker in the Hickstead Derby a fortnight ago.

“I’ve owned Pjotr since he was a two-year-old. He’s a real soldier and a very, very quick horse. He and my team of horses are in amazing form; credit to the whole team at Breen Equestrian, the grooms and the guys at home. Without them, we’re not sitting here.”

Holly Smith concluded another brilliant week of Bolesworth results, landing a grand prix podium with Nike Van Het Singraven, who stopped the clock on 42.68sec for third.

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Championship horse wins his first international grand prix: ‘He answered all the questions today’

‘It was hot hot hot at Bolesworth,’ says Carmen Edwards, who thanks the show for their efforts to keep horses cool

Successful British showjumper Carmen Edwards praises organisers of Bolesworth International for upping their game in the heatwave

The recent heatwave, which coincided with the start of week one of the Al Shira’aa Bolesworth International, reminded us of the massive difference between what is required to run an agricultural show and an international horse show.

At the former, much of the livestock involved just needs a bit of shade, but at a dedicated horse show, you need a proper infrastructure.

Bolesworth’s organisation team did a really good job of accommodating for the heat. There were misting stations, large barrels of water available near the rings and the water pressure was decent, which is important when the first thing you want to be able to do is wash the horses off.

The stables were opened up early, so there was time to get things done out of the heat. Everyone had to bring their own fans but the show did everything they possibly could to optimise the horses’ welfare.

Bolesworth is a show that has continued to up its game and people’s confidence showed with only a small percentage changing their plans because of the extreme weather forecast.

Why back-to-back dates don’t work

If there is a downside to Bolesworth’s two-week tour, it’s that it runs back-to-back with another highlight of the summer calendar, Hickstead.

It’s not fair on competitors who have a horse to jump bigger classes, but can’t afford to go abroad, to compress the opportunity into three weeks. I don’t know why the dates can’t be allocated better.

Course-builders Colm Quinn and Raf Suarez did an excellent job with Sunday’s grand prix, it was a great watch. The two jumps that took the most jumping were the two that came down.

I was relaying information back to one of my best pals, Ollie Tuff, in the jump-off. I told him he needed to make sure he was careful jumping the double and the rollback – a lot of people were getting flat or dead shots off the turn to the vertical, and it was right in front of the crowd, so horses didn’t have their eye on the fence.

It was nice to see both Trevor and Shane Breen do so well, with Trevor taking the win and for him and for his brother to finish runner-up. It’s a position my brother Will and I would definitely like to be in!

A 1.35M puissance wall to start

I also watched the puissance at Bolesworth on Saturday night and thought the show did a good job encouraging entries. There weren’t many originally; it takes a certain type of horse and sometimes there’s a flurry of them, while in other years it’s quieter.

I don’t know if they needed to start the wall as low as they did – at 1.35m – but it worked out well. The puissance is always an opportunity for people to bring along their mum or dad or boyfriend or girlfriend who doesn’t understand the sport, and still be able to enjoy their evening.

I was watching the big classes from the sidelines this year as I don’t have a grand prix ride since selling Happy Valerie last year. I am building up a team of young horses at the moment and had three at the show. Like everyone, I’m working hard hoping that something like Val comes along again.

I have three of her babies at home – Happy Hour, Happy Valentino and Happy Valentina – so hopefully one of those will grow up to fill her shoes. With a bit of luck, one the magic number three will be our next superstar.

● Do you have any tips for dealing with your horses during soaring temperatures? Send your horsey hacks to hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and county, for the chance to have your thoughts published in a future issue of Horse & Hound magazine

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The Irish always seem to perform on a supercharged level at Bolesworth International, and they underlined it once again when Breen brothers Trevor and Shane locked down a fabulous one-two in the CSI3* Al Shira’aa grand prix, both piloting home-breds.

It was Trevor Breen and his championship track jumper Highland President — certainly not the quickest jump-off horse on paper — who stole a surprise advantage from Shane and his prolific grand prix victor Scarteen to take the €17,100 (£14,700) first prize in the Bolesworth grand prix.

Course designer Colm Quinn created the conditions for an extraordinary jump-off, where all of the nine starters, except for Shane and Trevor, lodged four faults at one of two fences. Poles fell at either the oxer in, vertical out double, or because of the demanding turn back to the penultimate vertical.

Joe Whitaker’s opening round on his “best friend” and multiple international grand prix winner Hulahupe JR was the quickest of the class. Despite lowering the tricky vertical on the line home, they held the lead til midfield.

Shane then gave a masterclass in efficient jumping with Scarteen, delivering the first clean sheet, but at 2.36sec slower than Joe, he left the door ajar for a challenge.

How Trevor Breen won the Bolesworth grand prix

Trevor is not a fan of final draw with Highland President — “he’s not a notoriously fast horse and I’d rather do my own thing and see where I end up”, he said — but in this instance it played to his advantage, allowing him to nick 0.26sec from his brother’s target.

“I could just hear ‘four faults, four faults, four faults’ as I was warming up,” Trevor said. “Shane was pretty steady with his advice but he told me he was slow to the double. I thought I wouldn’t take a huge risk, but I’d take more risk there, and that’s where I pipped him really.

“The double was short in the first round and the second part had solid green poles, and they jump that a little worse than coloured poles, which may have been a factor in the faults there.”

It was a first ever international grand prix success for Highland President, owned and bred by Trevor’s in-laws Heather and Ian Black.

“He’s fast in first rounds but not in a jump-off when it’s twisty, he can be difficult to turn. Today he was fantastic though,” Trevor said. “He listened and answered all the questions.”

Shane said he was “delighted” for his younger brother to win the Bolesworth grand prix.

“I handed it to him and should probably have done nine strides to the last and I didn’t,” he said. “Scarteen will jump the four-star next week, which he won two years ago. He felt in great shape today, so I am looking forward to that.”

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Rachel Proudley claimed her sixth consecutive major puissance victory in the UK when she shared the spoils with three other riders in the Equiyd puissance at Bolesworth International on Saturday night (27 June).

Rachel won all five of her previous titles with her established performer Easy Boy De Laubry Z, but brought forward a new ride to tackle the bricks — Niall Mullins’ 11-year-old French Connection, who was making his puissance debut.

She split victory with Morgan Shirley, jumping her first Bolesworth puissance with nine-year-old mare Klaris Ride On, Paul Sims with nine-year-old Marshmallow and David Simpson with Kolman VDP.

The four combinations who cleared 1.95m in the fourth round of the Bolesworth puissance all lowered bricks in the fifth and final round , where the wall loomed at 2.10m (6’9”), to split the £6,700 winners’ pot.

“I started riding him two or three months ago,” said Rachel, who turns 21 in July. “He jumped the 1.50m here on Friday and then we thought we might try him in the puissance. He’s never jumped it before on his life, he had no practice or test run, that was his first ever go. We only decided to enter him today.”

The combination arguably jumped it the best of those in the final round, just nudging out a couple of bricks in front.

“To be fair, he was very unlucky not to clear it. It felt easy to him and I was very pleased with him,” she said.

Rachel, who is based in Yorkshire as a rider for Richard Howley, has firmly honed the knack for jumping the big wall. She took her first win at London International with Easy Boy De Laubry Z in 2024, going on to win at Bolesworth last year, followed by Dublin — where she broke a 61-year-old record — then Horse of the Year Show (HOYS), and London again.

“I think it is about keeping your cool!” said Rachel, who makes the towering bricks look like a normal fence. “I just try and keep it the same in every round and not go to early or too quick.”

With entries originally a little thin, the decision was made to start the wall lower than usual in the first round, at just 1.35m. This helped bump at the start list to 11 hopefuls, with several first timers, including Morgan Shirley, encouraged into the mix.

Hickstead Derby horses tackle Bolesworth puissance

Morgan, along with David Simpson, was one of two riders to be jumping their Hickstead Derby horses from last week in the class.

“It was surreal, it was 100% not on my radar at the start of the year that I’d be jumping the Derby and then a puissance,” said Morgan, who has a special relationship with the Brendon Stud’s mare, who she backed.

“I said to Shirley [Light] ‘I can’t see over it, I don’t know what to look at’ and she said ‘Just look at the top!’”

“‘Kali’ gave me a lot of confidence. She’s always been so willing and so kind, I feel like I could jump the moon on her. It’s been a whirlwind week.”

Last year, Shirley decided to keep Kali, who is by Don VHP Z out of her 1.60m mare Sussex Caretino, to be her hunter and team chaser, after she failed the vet.

“She has her mum’s guts and spirit and that extra bit of scope from her father,” Shirley said.

“We heard they were a bit short of entries for the puissance and were starting low, so I said to Morgan ‘This is our chance’.”

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The Horse & Hound Podcast 172: Rachel Proudley, young rider European champion and puissance star

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Watch Bolesworth International Horse Show on TV this week and enjoy a spectacular mix of competition and entertainment.

Al Shira’aa Bolesworth International hosts a wealth of world-class showjumping across two long weekends in the grounds of Bolesworth Castle in Cheshire and the event attracts top riders from all over.

At a glance

• Bolesworth International dates: 26 June – 5 July 2026 (breaking 30 June and 1 July)
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There is no terrestrial TV coverage of Bolesworth International, and ClipMyHorse.TV will be the only place you can follow all the action live or on demand. ClipMyHorse.TV is showing every class in both the International and Castle Arenas throughout the competition.

If you’re away from home, you can use NordVPN to secure your stream of the action from anywhere in the world.

How to watch Bolesworth International from anywhere

If you’re away from home and your normal coverage is geo-blocked, a VPN will get you your usual coverage from anywhere in the world.

There are many VPN providers out there, with some more reliable and safe than others. We’d suggest using a paid-for service such as NordVPN, where you can get an exclusive 75% off, which offers a 100% risk-free money back guarantee. If you’re not happy with the service any time within the first 30-days, then you can cancel with no penalties at all.

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Where to stay if you’re heading to Bolesworth

‘I don’t think there’s a fence he couldn’t jump’: top British rider and rising star secure home victory in Bolesworth grand prix

Teenager clears the biggest fence of her life at 7ft 3in to share Bolesworth puissance spoils: ‘I’m lost for words’

Richard Howley: ‘Bolesworth offered a rare pathway up to grand prix for riders’

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“It’s something I’ve always wanted to do,” says Oliver Greenall, as we stand ringside at Bolesworth International, presented by Al Shira’aa.

The racehorse trainer, who holds a joint licence with Josh Guerriero and saddled Iroko to finish fourth in the 2025 Grand National, dipped his toe into the world of showjumping with a solid international debut in Bolesworth’s amateur classes aboard O’Balou De Bourguignon.

“I’ve only recently started showjumping, so it was all a bit daunting the first week – I was making mistakes and we kept having fences down – but this week has been loads better,” says Oliver.

In classic sportsman style, he is already mulling over where he could improve. But to go from never really having showjumped – at least not since he was a child – to jumping in 1.15m classes at a major show in a short space of time is no easy feat.

“I think we’re both quite mentally and physically tired now,” says Oliver, at the end of his second week of jumping, which included ninth place with a clear round in Thursday’s Peel Port Logistics speed class.

“It’s been a long couple of weeks, but it’s been great, a really good experience. I’m so glad I’ve been able to do it, you never know, I might have another go…”

Oliver, who had success as amateur jockey before taking out his training licence, is based a stone’s throw from the show and has been helping Bolesworth director and showjumper Nina Barbour prepare for the Magnolia Cup charity race at Goodwood this month.

“Showjumping has always been something I wanted to have a good go at. I got this horse from Anthony Condon to have as a riding horse at home,” he says, explaining that the pair are great friends and Anthony, who won the CSI3* grand prix on Bolesworth’s first week, has been nudging him to have a go.

“Nina has been coming to ride at the yard and she said, ‘Well, why don’t you come and do Bolesworth?’ I’ve been for a load of lessons, did two little shows beforehand – fitting those in alongside racing – and then I came here.

“The first day the horse was really spooky, then ever since then, he’s been absolutely brilliant. He’s a real, safe, schoolmaster, and so chill. At home, I jump rails and hedges with him, he’s brilliant.”

He adds: “I’m learning; every time I jump, Anthony adds something else, ‘You need to go a bit tighter, you need to look at the clock, you need to learn the strides’. You think you’re getting it and then there’s more to learn. I never really appreciated how technical and difficult it really is, the margins are so fine.

“Being local, friends and family have come to watch. It’s been an amazing experience.”

It’s been a busy fortnight – alongside showjumping, the yard has had runners across the country, and Oliver has been back and forth to France for sales. The day job doesn’t stop, although for Iroko, it is still summer holiday season.

“He’s in good form,” says Oliver. “He’s still in Ireland at Martinstown on his holidays with [2025 Cheltenham Festival winner] Jagwar, but he’ll be coming back any day and the plan is to go back to the Grand National with him.”

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‘On top of the world is an understatement’: taking it slow pays dividends with grand prix win

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Showjumper Mark Edwards has paid tribute to his Hickstead speed Derby winner Royale Tale after the mare was fatally injured at Bolesworth International yesterday morning (6 July).

The 10-year-old, by Mark’s great former campaigner Montreuxs Tale and owned by Martyn Edwards, was competing in a CSI4* 1.35m two-phase class and jumping clear when she sustained a catastrophic leg injury.

“We are utterly heartbroken,” said Mark. “Royale Tale, bred by Sean and Charlene Daly, was a star with immense potential. She had recently showcased her talent with a win in the speed Derby at Hickstead, along with multiple victories in speed and grand prix classes internationally over the last few years.”

Mark said Royale Tale’s standout achievements include winning the newcomers and grade C final at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) 2022, and the international Stoneleigh Stakes at HOYS the following year, as well as a two-star grand prix at Vlilamoura in 2023, and a four-star 1.50m grand prix in Warsaw and five-star class at the Royal International Horse Show last year.

“It is painful to know we will never see just how far she could have gone,” he said.

He added: “A huge thanks to our fantastic groom Brooke who has cared for her so well since last year, it’s hard to say goodbye. Thank you to everyone for their kind words and support, it means a lot.”

Royale Tale earned the 2025 Brilliance Horse Auction speed Derby title on her first attempt last month and had won CSI3* and CSI4* international classes at Bolesworth International Horse Show, presented by Al Shira’aa, over the last two weeks.

A spokesperson for Bolesworth International said: “It is with great sadness that we have to report that Royale Tale, ridden by Mark Edwards, and owned by Martyn Edwards, was put down as a result of a fracture to her hind leg.

“The horse was immediately attended and assessed by the FEI event veterinary team.

“Our thoughts and condolences are with Mark, his groom and all of Royale Tale‘s connections.”

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Top British rider Laura Renwick’s Midas touch landed on the CSI4* Al Shira’aa grand prix at Bolesworth as she grasped a seismic victory in front of a home crowd aboard Marseille.

Laura is on a superb run of form and this win is further testament to the gold-standard of her production of young horses and a gilded step on the pathway to rebuild to the very top.

Marseille is only an eight-year-old and still relatively green, but while he is light on experience, he has ability and generosity of character in abundance.

“He’s got huge amounts of scope – I don’t think there’s a fence he couldn’t jump,” said Laura.

“It’s just a case of containing it all; he’s just learning now how to prop, to shorten, and how to do all these different things. I’m really excited about where he could end up.

“We’re going to manage him well this year and just see where we go; we’re not going to overdo him. I think these two weeks here have been an incredible experience for him.

“Thank you to Al Shira’aa and Nina Barbour for putting on such a great show. It’s really special to be here, they learn a lot in this arena – he’s probably gained a few months of experience in just two weeks.”

She added: “Most of the [jump-off] round didn’t quite go as I planned. I shouldn’t really be complaining about that now, but if I went and did it again, I’d probably do a bit differently – as it turned out it worked. He tried so hard for me. I’ve got to give this victory to him, it’s nothing to do with me, I’m sure!”

Laura has enjoyed excellent success across Hickstead and Bolesworth in recent weeks, with her stellar squad of home-breds and future stars collecting sash after sash. The grand prix is her third victory of the week at Bolesworth International, presented by Al Shira’aa, all three wins coming aboard different horses.

Marseille, who she owns with Neil Fiddes, joined her team a year ago and won Hickstead’s seven- and eight-year-old championship at Hickstead shortly after.

“That was our first test with him, then we’ve just taken our time to build him up. We’ve never doubted his ability, and it all came together today amazingly well,” she said.

Rafael Suarez’s first-round course thinned the field from 44 starters to a jump-off of 10 competitors from six different nations. With seven double clears, this became a test of speed.

Ireland’s David Simpson, a former Bolesworth grand prix winner, came closest – crossing the finish line eight hundredths of a second behind Laura to take the runner-up spot with his 2023 Hickstead Derby hero Pjotr Van De Kruishoeve.

“Laura is amazing; any time you’re riding into the ring and she’s in the lead, you know that you really have to give everything to try and beat her,” said David.

“I just didn’t do enough today, but I’m super happy with my horse and the way he performed today.

“The next goal for him is Hickstead for the Nations Cup and the King George V. For the last two years, since he won the Derby, it’s really been a focus to win the King George. I don’t think there’s too many horses that have done both, and I think he shows that he’s so clever and intelligent that he can put his hand to most things.”

Fellow Irish rider Jessica Burke finished third, stepping on to the podium with a sense of redemption after kicking herself for her performance in last week’s CSI3* grand prix.

“This was a massive target for me,” said Jessica, who rides the striking grey nine-year-old Good Star Du Bary for owner Erica Nicholas.

“I was annoyed at myself in the grand prix last week – I made a mistake and felt I let the horse down.

“I’m delighted with the horse. I watched the [results on the] phone, and when I saw Laura was clear [in the first round and then drawn after me in the jump-off], I thought, ‘Okay, however fast I can go, I don’t think I can beat her today’, so I’m happy to be sitting here.”

Bolesworth grand prix: how the class played out

The first-round course was a relentless, up-to-height challenge, as you would expect for a CSI4* grand prix. Faults were well spread and while there was no singular bogey fence, the final line – the Abbey Road double to a final oxer – was a late heartbreaker for a number of competitors who had answered every other question.

The time, too, was also a big factor in that first round. Sweden’s Alexander Zetterman and Anakin C were the first combination to net their spot in the jump-off. They were swiftly followed by US rider Skylar Wireman and Tornado – a real power-pack of a horse, with the acceleration of a F1 car and the lift of a rocket.

Sally Golding and Vivalgot were the first British combination to leave the fences standing, but costly time-penalties brought their challenge to an end. Tim Gredley (Medoc De Toxandria), Joe Whitaker (Hulahupe JR), Billy Twomey (Jumping Jack Van De Kalevallei), Anastasia Bondarieva (Calder) also within a whisper of progressing, with a smattering of time-faults cutting short their chances to chase for grand prix glory.

This year marks Bolesworth’s return to CSI4* status for the first time since 2019.

“It’s been so amazing for me to see – for the first time since Brexit, for the first time in six years – a truly international field here, with a host of riders from all across mainland Europe here,” said Bolesworth managing director Nina Barbour, congratulating Laura and thanking Al Shira’aa for its support.

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You may also be interested in:

‘We’re delighted to bring loyal readers this benefit’: H&H magazine subscribers get free website access

‘On top of the world is an understatement’: taking it slow pays dividends with grand prix win

Teenager clears the biggest fence of her life at 7ft 3in to share Bolesworth puissance spoils: ‘I’m lost for words’

Leading British rider’s home-breds on song – as she eyes return to the very top

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Laura Renwick’s star band of home-breds and young recruits is turning heads for all the right reasons – as the leading British rider builds towards the future and eyes a return to the very top.

The equine pupils in John and Laura Renwick’s breeding and production programme were prolific at the Al Shira’aa Hickstead Derby meeting last month, and that form has continued with impressive performances at Bolesworth.

“I’m very lucky with my young ones at the moment. They’re all incredibly talented and they’re just a pleasure to ride. They just seem to be on my wavelength, which is lovely, so I’m really enjoying it,” Laura told H&H, following a win with NFS Top Gun in a seven-year-old class on the opening day (Thursday, 3 July) of the second week of Bolesworth, presented by Al Shira’aa.

The son of her Olympia puissance winner Top Dollar VI, who is out of Laura’s former superstar ride Beluga II, also picked up a winner’s rug at Bolesworth last week. Before that, he landed the Breen Equestrian Beethoven seven- and eight-year-old championship title at Hickstead’s Derby meeting.

His winning round in Bolesworth’s international arena yesterday morning was deceptively fast – this scopey gelding covers the ground with such easy grace, without hurry. His attitude, explained Laura, is a wonderful quality.

“I’ve been in it a long time now, and I think the right attitude is one of the most important things a horse can have,” she said.

“When you get one who just works with you, really seems to want to do it and wants to help you out, which he does, it’s great. I love him.”

She added: “Last week he had a win, then he had an uncharacteristic pole in the final. I know it sounds a bit big-headed, but he doesn’t knock many jumps – touch wood.

“I’d seen Sven [Joseph Hadley] go, and that looked a very fast round. So I thought, ‘Well, I’m not going to do anything stupid, I’m just going to do what I know my horse can do’. And that just shows you how quick he is, as it felt like a nice, controlled round, but he was just faster.

“He lands and seems to know where I want him to go, which helps, and he’s always with me – that just makes such a difference when you’re going against the clock. He made it feel very easy today.

“He’s been like that from day one, a real pleasure to do everything with. He’s an exciting one, as is the other seven-year-old I have. We’re looking forward to the future – we’re not wishing the time away, but it’s nice to have these ones coming through and building back up again.”

That other seven-year-old is Top Star C (by Big Star), a half-brother to Top Dollar, and who joined NFS Top Gun on the podium at Hickstead. His talented stablemates also include the trio who took the top three places in Hickstead’s six-year-old final – winner D-Ons Yvonvhs Z, who was sourced from the Netherlands as a three-year-old, home-bred runner-up NFS Taluga (also out of Beluga) and another young Dutch recruit, Opium VD Kruisselbrink.

“I’ve been privileged in my career,” said Laura, explaining that she has been able to bring a lot of young horses through the grades.

“When I started we bought them as young ones. But as time’s gone on, I’ve ridden good mares and we’ve bred from them. Breeding them brings a different, special delight – they’re part of the family and you get a proud feeling, I suppose like watching your kid at sports day!

“It makes it fun still, and you feel like you’ve got something to look forward to. Even though I haven’t got the horses at the very top level at the moment, I’m hoping to build back up again. Hopefully, perhaps, in a year or two, we can be back where we used to be. To be there on a home-bred one would be amazing.”

NFS Top Gun’s win yesterday morning was the second of a quick-fire double for Laura, who also topped the opening CSI4* 1.30m speed class with her 11-year-old home-bred stallion Cottee.

“It’s a great feeling,” said Laura. “He jumped clear every day, and he got a win last week as well, he just missed out on the last day, so I thought today I would really have a crack at it and managed to win by five seconds, he felt super.”

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Anthony Condon and Oviedo ‘S’ were on top of the world in the Al Shira’aa grand prix at the CSI3* Bolesworth International presented by Al Shira’aa, as the only combination to jump double clear – and in foot-perfect style.

Anthony and Lisa Hales’ 11-year-old were third of only four, from 49 starters, to go in the jump-off, and as Sven Hadley (Phenomene Bleu Vdm) and Paul Sims (Jankorado GB) had both been caught out by the first element of the double, finishing on 50.86sec and 48.9sec respectively, it was there to be won.

Anthony and the huge-jumping Udarco Van Overis stallion jumped clear in 49.86sec, the agile chestnut making every turn as smooth as silk and every fence look effortless. But Jodie Hall McAteer (La Gupardie) was still to go.

Jodie started at her usual cracking pace, her mother Mandy’s nine-year-old mare full of jumping. But it was the second element of the double that caught Jodie out and although her time was a speedy 47.66sec, she had to settle for second.

“On top of the world is an understatement,” Anthony said. “Lisa kindly bought this horse when he was four, and we’ve been taking our time with him. I think this is the first class he’s won, so it was a good one to win! But he’s an unbelievable horse. We knew he was going to get there in the end. And he showed his worth today.”​

Anthony added that the stallion has jumped clear in just about every grand prix he has contested so far.

“He’s just never been that fast, and now he’s learning to get a lot more competitive and building a bit of speed,” he said. “It fell a bit my way today that a clear was enough, but sometimes you need a bit of luck.”

Anthony thanked all his team for their support, crediting the joint effort for the win.

Jodie said this was La Gupardie’s first three-star grand prix, and a “big ask” for the mare.

“She jumped amazing,” she said. “I’m a bit disappointed I didn’t win, but it wasn’t the initial plan to be even in it. So I’m really excited for the future with her.”

Paul was also delighted with his own 11-year-old.

“He’s relatively new to this level, he’s improving all the time and he’s got a bright future,” he said.

Neither La Gupardie nor Jankorado will contest this week’s four-star classes, but Oviedo is staying at Bolesworth .

“Oviedo will be aiming for the grand prix; I’d love to pull it off two weeks in a row,” Anthony said. “But it’s going to be very competitive – today was a very tough class and it was a three-star; next week is four-star. Today was a very good course; it took a bit of riding and was very well built. And thank you very much to Nina [Barbour] for putting on this show, it’s fantastic.”

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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British teenager Rachel Proudley set a new personal best by clearing 7ft 3in to tie for top honours with Ireland’s Brendan Murphy in the LeMieux puissance at the CSI3* Bolesworth International presented by Al Shira’aa on Saturday evening (28 June).

A field of three intrepid combinations remained for the fifth and final round, where the big red wall towered to 2.20m (7ft 3in) in the centre of Bolesworth’s iconic main arena.

First to go of the final trio was Jack Whitaker and D&H Q Paravatti N, who was fresh from an appearance in the Hickstead Derby with Jack’s father Michael Whitaker, but the mare just nudged out the top bricks to finish on four faults.

One week short of her 20th birthday, 19-year-old Rachel Proudly was one of the youngest riders in the field and still a relative newcomer to high jumping, but already a London International puissance winner with Graham Ward’s 11-year-old Easy Boy De Laubry Z.

The fearless duo tackled the wall with typical gusto, Rachel punching the air with delight as they surpassed their previous personal best of clearing a 2.12m puissance wall set at London in December.

Brendan shrugged off any pressure as last to enter the arena and pitched his approach perfectly with Hugh Fitzpatrick’s 12-year-old Erne Riverrun. The pair soared clear over the top bricks, ensuring there would be a two-way lap of honour for these worthy puissance winners.

Bolesworth puissance winner: “I’m lost for words”

“I’m quite lost for words. It’s an amazing feeling, Easy Boy was great today,” said Rachel. “We didn’t really have high expectations, but he got better with every round. He’s so brave and you can trust him all the way – it really helps. He’s incredible.”

Brendan and the Irish-bred Erne Riverrun finished third in the puissance here at Bolewsorth at his first attempt in 2023.

“We only came over to Bolesworth with the one horse, so to pull off a win is amazing,” he said.

Finishing in joint fourth were William Fletcher riding Alison Walton’s Quintine Van d’Abdijhoeve and Maisy Williams, who turned 19 last month, riding Dalton D’Hoyo.

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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Only in the horse world can semen sell for £11,500 – and the proceeds go to support sick and injured children.

At the Bolesworth Elite Auction on 18 November, a breeding to Olympic stallion Enjoy De La Mure was sold, in aid of the Palestinian Children’s Relief Fund.

The French-bred 10-year-old, owned by HH Sheikha Fatima bint Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s Al Shira’aa Farms, turned heads in Paris when he and the UAE’s Omar Abdul Aziz Al Marzooqi jumped clear to qualify for the individual Olympic showjumping final.

The 21-year-old rider and the Vigo Cece stallion, out of a Sable Rose dam, then won the FEI Zangersheide Sires of the World competition in Lanaken in September.

“Not available on the open market, this breeding was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the winning bidder, Adam Deering, owner of Carrera Stud, UK,” a spokesperson for the auction said.

The Palestinian Children’s Relief Fund is a charity founded in 1991 that provides free medical care to thousands of injured and ill children yearly. Mr Deering said he was very happy to support such a worthy cause.

“And to be able to use a stallion like Enjoy, is of course, a great opportunity,” he said.

“I have a lovely mare, Dackaria, the only daughter of DSP Chakaria, so I’m hoping to use the breeding on her.”

Omar Abdul Aziz Al Marzooqi, who was the winner of the Longines rising star title at this year’s FEI awards, said the stallion is an “exceptional” horse.

“Despite only sitting on him 10 months before the Olympics, we developed a special bond early on, winning the CSIO4* Sharjah Nations Cup presented by Longines and the Montefalco CSI4* Grand Prix,” he said.

Another £1,750, raised for a breeding to Tsunami De Hus, will also be donated to the charity.

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Wetherby-based Irish showjumper Richard Howley, a leading international rider who was shortlisted for Ireland’s 2024 Olympic showjumping team, reflects on an innovative new show format for Britain

It’s great to have a three-star show in this country and even better that the new-look Bolesworth Summer Equestrian Festival is here for two weeks this year. Fair play to organiser Nina Barbour, who has obviously invested a lot into making it special.

It can be very hard to step up from jumping national 1.40m classes to a three-star grand prix, so having the build-up over two weeks is a rare pathway for some riders to be able to go on and tackle a 1.50m-plus competition.

It’s also appealing to riders with bigger operations to be able to set up shop for the duration and use Bolesworth’s great facilities. There are super course-builders, great equipment and impressive surroundings, so it’s the perfect setting for horses to gain experience.

Every day there are different things to see, as well as evening entertainment, so young horses can get accustomed to noise. There is a lot for them to take in and it’s all valid mileage for their careers. There was even a schooling class on Monday between shows, providing an opportunity to get young horses in the big arena.

A joined-up approach

The extra week has definitely encouraged a few more people to come over and support this show. While we don’t have so many foreign riders competing in Great Britain, it is convenient for a lot of the Irish, who would normally be heading past to mainland Europe.

A few of those will have come over for Bolesworth and will be staying on for this week’s Hickstead Derby meeting. It would be a good idea if show centres could always work together to create dates that form show plans, to encourage as many people as possible to support these events.

I came to Bolesworth for the second week with four horses of my own before heading to compete in Paris, Stockholm and then Monaco. We also have clients here, as well as my riders Toby Parsons, Fraser Reed and Rachel Proudley – Rachel jumped very well in a 1.50m class with a horse that was bought at the Bolesworth auction three years ago. My client Annie Salthouse also won the 1.10m amateur grand prix on her first appearance at the venue and had an amazing time, while all the other clients have benefited a lot.

High standards

There are a lot of good riders here and the standard has been very high, with courses that are up to height – as they should be at a three-star. I wasn’t expecting much in the grand prix this year as Mansini is a bit rusty, but hats off to Shane Breen for winning the class with his home-bred Scarteen.

There are a few horses I’ve spotted here this year that I am hoping to buy and we’ve also possibly sold two. At every show we go to we are trying to create business.

Bolesworth is always clean and tidy and it’s an appealing place for me to bring owners and investors, as well as to encourage new clients into the sport. Every year they are working to improve things.

There is no magic wand to make it happen overnight but important touches continue to be added – for example, every truck parked this year was on hardstanding.

It’s important we all stay positive about the direction these shows are going in, so we continue to have access to them in this country.

● What are the important touches you look for at shows – what works and what doesn’t? Let us know at hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and country, for the chance for your letter to appear in a forthcoming issue of the magazine

• This exclusive column will also be available to read in Horse & Hound magazine, on sale Thursday 20 June

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Two puissance specialists set a new Bolesworth record by clearing the red wall at 2.21m (7ft 3in) in the fifth and final round.

Guy Williams and Elaine Annis’s Mr Blue Sky UK — probably the most prolific puissance combination of all time — and Elliott Smith and Flamboyant III, a previous joint-victor, both stayed faultless to share the €5,565 (£4,706) first prize at the Bolesworth International Equestrian Summer Festival, presented by Al Shira’aa.

A bumper field of 12 combinations — including several first timers — had come forward to brave the red bricks and the horses were jumping so impressively that eight were still in to contest the fourth heat.

But the wall at 2.15m (7ft 1in) proved key, and only three went forward into the final round.

First to jump was Guy’s 18-year-old daughter Maisy Williams, whose eye for a stride had been enviable as she rode the versatile Dalton D’Hoyo on flawless trips to the wall in each round.

But the 15-year-old gelding, with whom she won the puissance at Arena UK last year, over 2.05m, didn’t quite make the height and nudged out a white brick.

Guy had said in earlier rounds that Mr Blue Sky was fresh and strong and he had been struggling to keep hold of the 15-year-old grey. He approached the wall with the horse’s head slightly to one side but a few strides out, he lost momentum and it briefly appeared as if they might bail on the attempt.

But that would be an underestimation of Guy’s skill and this horse’s scope, as somehow, from a near-standstill, he just popped over 7ft 3in.

“He’s been a bit difficult tonight,” said Guy, who won this class for the third year and whose record with the horse was clearing 2.24m in Rouen. “He hasn’t done much for a while and he was trying to jump it too well. He finds it so easy.”

“I was hoping for a family win!”

Guy was also impressed with his daughter’s performance.

“I’m very proud of Maisy,” he said. “I was hoping Elliott would knock it down so we could have had a family win!”

The focus was all on Elliott to see if he could make it a draw. He’d also had to be tactful in his approach, and brought the horse back to walk before picking up canter a few strides away.

The 14-year-old gelding jumped perfectly, never looking like touching a brick, to lodge another puissance win — and beat the previous Bolesworth puissance record by 1cm.

“It feels amazing and the horse loves Bolesworth. I couldn’t find a better show for him to come to. It was definitely on my schedule for this year to come to Bolesworth and jump the puissance, but I didn’t expect to break a record,” he said.

You can read the full report from this year’s Bolesworth International in the current issue of Horse & Hound magazine (dated 13 June) and this Thursday’s issue (in the shops 20 June).

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Shane Breen rose to the challenge of a testing Al Shira’aa 1.55m CSI3* grand prix with assurance, partnering the hot home-bred grey Scarteen to the fastest of just three double clears.

Course-designer Javier Trenor Paz had created a real challenge for the 48 starters on the closing day of Bolesworth’s two-week International Summer Festival. Poles dropped everywhere on his first round track, but a combination across the centre became such a bogey that the crowd applauded every time a rider negotiated it clear.

The time allowed was exacting, pushing several skilled combinations to make four-fault errors, including last week’s CSI 2* grand prix victors William Whitaker and Chacco’s Lando.

“When I walked the course I thought it suited my guy but I had to be careful not to have a time-fault. In Thursday’s rankings class I had a time-fault, so I made a plan and stuck to it,” said Shane, who has been on form throughout the two weeks, coming second to William last week riding Cato’s Boy.

“I thought Scarteen jumped really well. He’s quite sharp but has a lot of scope and is really careful. You have to sit as quietly as you can and let him get on with the job.”

Under this grand prix format, a quarter of the field go through to the jump-off. Of the 13 combinations who qualified, eight carried through four faults.

Shane was one of only four clears — Tim Gredley and Olympic hopeful Imperial HBF also remained faultless, as did James Davenport (One To Watch) and Thursday’s Longines ranking class winners Seamus Hughes Kennedy with his reigning young rider European champion ESI Rocky.

One other rider, the USA’s Maggie Hill (Elmegaardens Dakota), also left the poles standing, but added three for time.

Riders face tactical dilemma

The jump-off ran in reverse order of merit, and several of the first-round four-faulters went on to jump fast clears.

Those with clean sheets faced the tactical dilemma of whether to aim for clear and remain in decent prize money or push on against the clock, in case they lowered a pole.

Tim was the first of the clears to jump off and opted for a safe but forward round on this very promising nine-year-old, before his lead was swiftly overturned by Shane, who set a pace 3sec slower than the fastest round so far (Ellen Whitaker and Korlenski, who totalled eight faults) but well-judged enough to set an impressive standard.

James Davenport had shaken his head when asked if he could match Shane’s performance as he entered the ring, but he put in a brilliant bid on the home-bred mare One To Watch, finishing clear just 0.12sec behind Shane to slot into second place.

All eyes were on 21-year-old Seamus, who had earned his slot as last to jump with the fastest first round. He was quick everywhere with the nine-year-old Stakkato Gold x Londonderry gelding, stopping the clock an incredible 3.37sec faster than Shane but lowering the first part of the double to finish in fourth.

‘It’s a good job the grand prix wasn’t yesterday’

“Scarteen is a home-bred so it is nice to take the win on him,” said Shane, who had an on-form afternoon, having taken first and second place in his previous two classes as a prelude to the main event.

“He’s actually a very pally horse but he has to know you and when he knows you and trusts you, he gives you 100%.

“He’s a bit sharp — I rode him yesterday and he was off his head, so it’s a good job the grand prix wasn’t yesterday!” he added.

Shane sold a part-share in the 11-year-old to Marianne Schindele as a five-year-old but took the ride back last year after Peder Fredricson saw him at a show and reminded him what a good horse he owned.

Their wins on British soil since have included speed horse of the year at Horse of the Year Show and the Sussex Cup at Hickstead’s September meeting but they have also been jumping successfully internationally at five-star level.

“We have a routine with him now and lunge him first,” said Shane, who claimed €18,744 (£15,823) for his win. “He’s got incredible energy, you just have to keep him as calm as possible.”

‘It’s a hard decision’

James was “chuffed to bits” with his second place, on a horse who is also a home-bred.

“The only one I saw go was Shane before me and he was so fast, so smooth,” he said.

“It’s a hard decision to know what to do [when you’ve jumped one of just a handful of first-round clears]. It’s happened so many times that I’ve thought ‘I’ll do a good clear and get a good placing’ and then nicked a rail somewhere and ended up 12th. This time I thought ‘sod it, I’ll go as fast as I can!’

“To do that on a home-bred feels is amazing. Her half-owner Martin Dawes was here to watch today and it’s the only show he’s been to in a year, so it’s been a dream for him to see a home-bred horse do that today.

“I rode her mother, who won the silver league, and she’s identical to her, really sharp and when she’s too sharp, she’s not so good, but when you are able to put your leg on, the jump comes good. The other day I worked her in the morning and she came out this afternoon exactly where I wanted her.”

Britain’s show jumping performance manager Di Lampard was at the show to observe the hopefuls for Paris Olympics in action. Tim Gredley finished top of the nominated combinations, in third, while Robert Whitaker (Vermento) finished fifth after following up on a four-fault first round with a fast jump-off clear.

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

In this week’s international showjumping news round-up, we celebrate some mighty performances, particularly from cousins William Whitaker and Jack Whitaker, in the opening week of Bolesworth’s new international tour.

But we also look further afield to some notable Nations Cup podium finishes, a five-star win for a former groom ranked 1,813th in the world, and a rider winning a jump-off against herself. Read on for this week’s international showjumping news round-up and results.

Showjumping news: the big guns are out for a Bolesworth thriller

William Whitaker and Chacco’s Lando took full advantage of the slivers of opportunity left for the taking by their rivals to secure a British victory in Bolesworth’s high-class LeMieux CSI2* grand prix during week one of the inaugural Bolesworth International Equestrian Summer Festival presented by Al Shira’aa.

Ireland’s Shane Breen “knew the big guns were coming behind me” – setting the standard by taking the brave man’s route with Cato Boy over Rafael Suarez’s jump-off course. But William was braver – as last to go, he had to be – slicing across the oxer at fence five and delivering an all-round masterclass in jump-off riding to power ahead by 0.6sec.

“I was in the best position to know what everybody else did before I went in. Shane set a really good target – I knew that I had to give everything to try to beat him and luckily it paid off,” said William, of Old Lodge Stud’s talented 11-year-old Chacco-Blue son, who is looked after by Mia Allison and Sophie Price. “He’s a great horse and I feel now each month I get to know him a little bit better and exactly how he needs to be managed so that he jumps his best.”

Britain’s Christopher Smith was the first to come close to runner-up Shane’s impressive time on owner/breeder Nicola Barry’s nine-year-old mare Messarado Blue, and their performance earned them a place on the podium. Don’t miss the full report in this week’s H&H magazine, in shops Thursday 10 June.

• Bolesworth results

Rider wins five-star jump-off against herself

In Canada, the CSI5* Spruce Meadows Continental meeting presented by Rolex hosted some of the world’s top riders and Erynn Ballard (main image) took the spotlight when achieving the rare feat of a one-two in Friday’s The Mustangs 1.55m grand prix qualifier.

The Olympic hopeful took top spot with Libido Van’t Hofken in a time of 42.86sec, finishing a fraction slower on the former Ben Maher ride Gakhir in 84.53sec. Her closest challenge came from Great Britain’s Matt Sampson on Daniel.

“My first five-star win [at Thunderbird Show Park last month] was the greatest day of my career so far. But everybody that rides a pony, whether you’re a little girl, a little boy, or a teenager, you do this to go to the Olympics. So certainly it’s in the forefront of my mind and I’ve got the horses to do it, but I still have a lot of work to do,” said Erynn, who could be part of Canada’s first-ever all-female Olympic team in Paris. “I’m always hashtagging ‘girl power’ and I think that it would be a great thing for the younger generation of the sport. But at the end of the day, no matter what, we’re all teammates.”

Matt Sampson had turned the tables the previous day, beating the Canadian to victory in the CSI5* AON Cup with new ride One Whisper.

• Spruce Meadows results

Showjumping news: “She’s a proper horse,” says Jack Whitaker

Next in this week’s international showjumping news round-up, we’re back to Bolesworth, where a “sassy little” mare got everyone talking when winning the CSIYH1* Al Shira’aa seven-year-old final. It’s part of this sport’s magic to see a prospective future talent score that first significant win. When that success comes in the hands of one of Britain’s top rising stars, that magic is brushed with an extra sparkle. This year’s final was a real jewellery shop window, headed by the super mare Chique Rv Z in the hands of Britain’s Jack Whitaker, with Ireland’s Shane Breen and Konrad Obolensky a close second.

“We think she’s a proper one,” said Jack, who bought the Cicero Z daughter as a four-year-old with Jake Saywell. “She’s like a rubber ball – a real compact, sassy little mare. I don’t think she knows that she’s small! With her, I have to stick to my own plan, as I can’t just copy the strides that everyone else is doing. But I know that she’s quick and I know she can turn tight.”

• Bolesworth results

Nations Cup thrillers: “I am proud of the team”

At the CSIO3* Longines EEF Nations Cup in Luxembourg, winners Belgium topped the podium on a zero score after a jump-off with Ireland. Great Britain finished in third.

Ireland was represented by brothers Max Wachman (Kilkenny) and Tom Wachman with Cathalina S, Michael Duffy on Clitschko 17 and Cian O’Connor producing a double clear with Fancy De Kergane before felling one pole more than Belgium representative Jeroen Appelen on Monte Blue PS against the clock.

“I suppose you could say that’s one that got away,” said Horse Sport Ireland high performance showjumping director Michael Blake. “The lads jumped great for the most part but one or two little mistakes have ultimately cost us. It is still an excellent result and, of course, congratulations to the Belgium team. When Tom and Cian, our final two riders, jumped their clears under pressure to apply pressure on the Belgians, they didn’t wilt to take us to the jump-off, where they got the job done.

“I am proud of the team. A Nations Cup runner-up finish is never to be sniffed at and it highlights the consistency we have in our programme.”

Third-placed Great Britain also secured a place in the semi-final in Deauville later this month.

“I’m delighted, it’s the first time Britain has qualified for the EEF semi-final in Deauville,” said Great Britain’s chef d’equipe Di Lampard, who led Mark Edwards (Flying Tinker II), Adrian Whiteway (Chacco Volo), Olli Fletcher (Hello William) and Robert Murphy on Kannem JA Z to the podium. “All four riders contributed with clear rounds and this squad is going to the four-star Nations Cup in Sopot, Poland, next week.

“I like the format for the EEF, where all the teams get to compete in the second round – unless they are eliminated in round one – and get to put the wrongs right. It’s in the right spirit and they gain valuable experience, whereas the standalone three-star teams only take the top eight [through to round two]. I’m looking forward to the Deauville semi-final and hopefully, the final in Warsaw.”

Great Britain and Ireland also finished fifth and sixth respectively in the Longines EEF series qualifier in Drammen, Norway, where another jump-off decided victory for Poland over hosts Norway, with Sweden third after torrential rain hit the venue during round two. It was the first time for eight years that Poland has won a Nations Cup. Each of the British quartet jumped a clear – Simon Crippen (Handsome), Leo Lamb on Gmail, Faye Sutton with Spider and Phillip Miller riding Don Royale, who went on to finish third in Sunday’s grand prix.

• CSIO3* EEF Drammen results
• CSIO3* EEF Roeser results

Showjumping news: Cannes success for Brash and Howley

We continue this week’s showjumping news round-up with the opening day of the Longines Global Champions Tour of Cannes, where Ireland’s Richard Howley and Petitfour VD Wareslage won a 1.45m speed class, toppling long-time leaders Ben Maher and Ginger-Blue.

“Heading in to beat Ben Maher always adds to the pressure,” Richard said. “Obviously he is a world-class rider, so it’s an honour to take the win over him today.”

Great Britain’s Scott Brash and Hello Valentino topped the GCL first qualifier by more than two seconds while Saturday night’s grand prix was won by Janne Friederike Meyer-Zimmermann on the appropriately named Messi Van’t Ruytershof in the city’s football stadium Stade Des Hesperides.

“I had a short second of a moment where I thought ‘now you just drop the rein and go’… and he made it, I am so thankful for this horse – what a horse,” she said.

• LGCT Cannes results

A winning week for Amanda Derbyshire

US-based British showjumper Amanda Derbyshire sealed a spectacular week at the Tryon International with victory in the $120,000 CSI3* 1.50m grand prix on Cornwall BH. She topped a four-way jump-off to decide the honours, having also sealed victory with Otto BH in the two-phase.

• Tryon International results.

A first ever grand prix success for former groom, ranked 1,813th in the world

A 29-year-old rider from Czechia made history with victory in Spruce Meadows’ five-star grand prix. Vaclav Stanek, who just two years ago was working as a groom at the venue, rode Quintin to an unexpected victory over Matt Sampson and Daniel.

“I didn’t even expect to get a clear round, let alone win my first five-star event,” said the 1,813th ranked Czech showjumper who is a former Rolex Young Riders Academy pupil. “I have watched Spruce Meadows since I was a little kid hoping one day I could ride here, but I would never even dream about winning here. I finally got my cooler in the best way possible.”

• Spruce Meadows grand prix results

“I’m determined every day”: Kent Farrington triumphs in La Baule

Finally in this week’s showjumping news round-up, we celebrate US rider Kent Farrington’s brilliant win in the Rolex grand prix Ville de La Baule riding Greya after an exhilarating 11-way jump-off. The duo delivered the quickest of four double clears, beating fellow American Karl Cook (Caracole De La Roque), and Belgium’s Gregory Wathelet (Bond Jamesbond De Hay) took third.

“I’m determined every day,” said Kent. “Our sport has its ups and downs, because horses are animals with their own rhythm and needs. That’s what makes our sport so beautiful. You go from hero to zero very quickly, and that’s the game. I try to stay focused and not think about what might have happened or what might happen. I hadn’t really looked at Karl’s course, and this allowed me to follow my plan and secure the victory.”

Germany won the show’s CSIO5* Nations Cup and while Great Britain wasn’t involved in the team competition, individual representative at the show Lily Attwood and Karibou Horta won Saturday’s accumulator.

• CSIO5* La Baule results

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

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“The week before was absolute chaos – but oh my gosh, it was so much fun”.

Para showjumper Evie Toombes came up with the idea of competing at her first FEI competition, at Bolesworth International Horse Show (14-18 June), when she was in hospital last December. She told H&H she was not at all sure it would be possible to go, and that even when it was looking more likely, they had the official side of things to sort out.

“It was one of those goals that you think won’t be possible but it will keep you going – but it actually happened,” she said. “Mum said it was a lovely idea, probably thinking it would keep me happy!”

Evie said as her nine-year-old KWPN gelding Jack Sparrow had not jumped internationally before, he had to be registered with the FEI.

“We found out he wasn’t legally owned by me so we had to send his passport to KWPN and it got delayed, and they said it wouldn’t come back in time for Bolesworth, so we couldn’t go,” she said. “This was on the Friday, so Mum messaged the chair of KWPN on Facebook and very respectfully explained the issue and asked if there were any options – and within 24 hours, he’d had a word and the passport was being sent. It arrived on the Tuesday morning, two hours before we left!”

At the show, Evie had to plan her rides around her treatment. She was born with spina bifida, which means she has no feeling in her legs below the knee, and bladder and bowel issues. She competes in para and able-bodied classes, with the motto “Find a way, not an excuse”, including once jumping a 1.50m fence in a 90cm class on her mare High Offley Business Centre (Daisy).

“I have 16 hours a day of food through my tubes but because it was so hot at Bolesworth, I was on 22 hours a day for fluid,” she said. “Most people would drink more water but I can’t as it’s not absorbed. So I’d be walking the course with the international showjumpers, with my backpack full of tubes. It is usually on a drip stand; you can put it in the backpack but that weighs 10kg. I can give it to Mum but I’m a bit clumsy and if someone walks between us, and the tubes are connected to my heart…!”

Evie and Jack jumped double clear in two of the CSI amateur classes, winning prize money in both.

“When you go in that big arena, it’s like being in a bubble down there,” Evie said. “Some days, Jack will look at anything but the fences but he went in there and was ‘This is my job’. It was amazing.”

Evie said she was very proud of Jack, whom she said can be shy, to go to a show with the atmosphere of Bolesworth and perform as he did.

“Daisy’s 20 now – and she’d jumped at Bramham the week before and come third – and she’s always really been my heart horse,” she said. “I never expected to get another one I could enjoy as much. She’s having a bit of a quieter life now but she whinnies every time the lorry went so we took the old faithful to Bramham and she was a star.

“People keep asking what show I’m doing next; this was all I’d planned for a year so I’ve no idea! But that’s the hope, to go to a few more places and make more memories. We’re so lucky to have Bolesworth, and everything feels worthwhile when it all comes together.

“I always try to have something to pull us along; sometimes silly things but it keeps you going. I’m now back to reality and in bed for a week but it’s nice to know you can do more than you think.”

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

At Bolesworth International in Cheshire last week (14-18 June) spectators were intrigued by the unusual orange bit worn by Emma Stoker’s ride Daisy, who was runner-up in both Thursday’s grand prix qualifier and Saturday’s 1.45m winning round in the CSI3* section.

The soft-touch bit is made of nylon rope surrounded by thick layer of soft, semi-porous foam that moulds around the nylon core and was originally designed for horses with sensitive mouths. It is also said to prevent pinching, making it useful for horses that have suffered a mouth injury.

The loose rings attach directly to the nylon strap.

“It’s basically a giant sponge and Daisy loves it. She’s been in it for a long time now,” says Emma of the 12-year-old mare by Connor.

“I had to experiment with her as I couldn’t get the feeling I wanted. She’s very polite and has a very light mouth.

“I’d tried it previously on another horse and it was sitting in my bit bucket and she was instantly really good in it.

“I’ve never had a horse it suited before, but it works for her.”

Emma Stoker enjoyed a successful show at Bolesworth, also heading the opening CSI3* class, the two-phase 1.35m, with 10-year-old Q Seven, who like Daisy is owned by Robert Lemieux. Both horses were ridden by his daughter Chloe until eight months ago, when she backed off competing them to switch focus to her exams.

“Q Seven is an out-and-out little winner and such a fun horse,” Emma says. “I had him from when he was four and then Chloe bought him, but I was more than happy to have him back!”

You can read the full report from Bolesworth International in this week’s Horse & Hound magazine, in the shops Thursday 22 June.

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

From the moment Billy Twomey and the “freakishly” talented Chat Botte ED delivered their effortless first round, Cavago’s £16,500-to-the-winner CSI3* grand prix at the Bolesworth International (14-18 June) looked like a foregone conclusion.

The 15-year-old stallion’s complete package of startling scope and natural ground speed gives him every advantage – and it was apparent that in the absence of a mistake, nothing was going to catch him.

The smart money was on the on-form Irish in this finale, three of whom had made the top 25% to go through to the jump-off. Joining Billy were the quick Richard Howley with Consulent De Prelet Z and the show’s breakthrough star Jonathan Smyth, who had won his first rankings class with the lovely Mulvin Lui earlier in the week.

Of the 13 riders to make the cut, three carried through time-faults from the first round, the rest on clean sheets. The game was on when first of the clears Yazmin Davis delivered a competitive round on Zanbowa Z.

Predictions soon began to play out when Richard Howley smashed the time target, scything more than five seconds of Yazmin’s lead, but losing the gamble to a pole at the final fence. It was Guy Williams who put in a redeeming bid for the home side with Ernie Of Greenhill Z, taking over the lead with 0.35sec in hand. But the Irish fought back, as 25-year-old Jonathan found an extra second with his game 13-year-old gelding.

“My horse is a little bit slow and I thought Billy would probably win it. I don’t know who invites the Irish, that’s all I can say!” Guy said.

Bolesworth International: ‘An emotional win’

Having earned himself the closing slot with the fastest first round, Billy had the advantage of both tactics and horsepower. The spectacular stallion gave the fences inches to spare, and Billy came home as the quickest clear, and fourth fastest time of the class, to overturn Jonathan’s lead by 1.35sec.

“I knew I just had to be a little bit tighter than Jonathan to win it as Chat Botte’s a fast horse over the ground,” Billy said. “He is an outstanding jumper who’s always been freakish over a fence.”

Jonathan said he’d have “been happy with second place” before the class started.

“My horse has jumped fantastically all week – he’s done two classes and won one and been second in the other,” he said.

Billy’s Chat Botte was bought by his long-term owner Sue Davies, who died this year, from Johnny Pals five years ago, when he was already jumping grands prix. The pair have had success up to five-star, including a recent good run in the UAE, where they were placed in every grand prix they jumped.

“It’s an emotional win,” said Billy. “Bolesworth is only 20 minutes from Pewit Hall, where Sue used to live. I sometimes pick up my phone and have to stop myself from trying to call her, as I always called her after a win.

“She was a huge supporter of mine for 22 years, which is almost unheard of in our sport.”

The win was a return to the ring for Chat Botte (Casall x Darco), who has had a break while he’s been used for stud duties.

“He hasn’t done a lot recently. This is his first big show back,” Billy said. “He’s popular as a stallion. His offspring are beautiful, he really stamps them.”

You can read the full report from Bolesworth International Horse Show in this week’s Horse & Hound magazine, in the shops on Thursday 22 June.

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

There has never been another puissance combination quite like Guy Williams and the brilliant Mr Blue Sky UK. Over the past five years they’ve claimed all of the country’s major puissance titles and they were back for more at Bolesworth — taking the £3,570 first prize as the sole partnership to clear the wall in the fifth and final round.

Both Guy and Ireland’s Brendan Murphy (Erne Riverrun) had jumped the wall at 6’11” (2m10) and decided to come forward for a final heat despite Guy struggling to hold the big, strong grey, as he’s injured his back.

Brendan, 23, was contesting only his second ever puissance and delivered fabulous performances right until the end, when the 10-year-old gelding dragged the bricks down behind.

Mr Blue Sky, however, cleared the massive wall with ease, giving it air behind.

“I came back in as I know he’s nearly a guarantee [to win it],” Guy said. “He makes the fourth or fifth round every time. He jumps it effortlessly — up to 2m15 he’s in his comfort zone.”

Guy said he was going to ask Richard Howley, who lives nearby, to ride Mr Blue Sky as he was struggling with his bad back.

“I had eight weeks off after Spain, I jumped at Windsor but I was bit sore. I went to France and I won a couple of classes there, and it’s getting better, but he gets quite strong so it was making it a bit sore.

“I was going to get Richard to ride him, but I thought ‘I probably need a few quid to pay the bills, so I’d better jump it’.”

Guy has lost count of the number of puissances Caroline Phillips’ 14-year-old Chacco Blue gelding has won to date.

“The biggest he ever went to was 2m24 in Rouen,” Guy said.

All bar one of the nine horses forward had jumped cleanly until the fourth round, where six combinations, including last year’s winners Mark Edwards and Montreuxs Tale, all caught the wall behind.

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The Bolesworth Estate, which is situated near Chester and not far from the Welsh border, is home to Bolesworth International Horse Show, the Bolesworth Young Horse Championships and the Elite Auctions. Finding hotels near Bolesworth Castle will help you make the most of your visit to the venue, whether you’re there to spectate, support or compete.

We’ve included a great selection of accommodation by type – not just hotels near Bolesworth Castle, but guesthouses, B&Bs and holiday lets, too, so you can easily find what you’re looking for. Distances are calculated in driving distance to the estate (CH3 9HQ).

Jump down for…

• Hotels near Bolesworth Castle
• Guest houses, inns and B&Bs near Bolesworth Castle
• Holiday lets and apartments near Bolesworth Castle

Hotels near Bolesworth Castle

Guest houses, inns and B&Bs near Bolesworth Castle

Holiday lets and apartments near Bolesworth Castle

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Bolesworth partners with Helite UK and Riding for the Disabled Association

Bolesworth has partnered with Helite UK and Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) for its 2023 season of equestrian events.

Helite UK will be a sponsor and Bolesworth’s official equestrian safety partner, which will include a rental scheme available to all competitors.

Nina Barbour, Bolesworth managing director, added: “I started to wear an airbag system over a year ago after seeing so many top riders embracing this new technology. I now wear mine every time I get on a horse – it makes me feel far braver! We look forward to promoting safety in our sport at Bolesworth alongside Helite UK.”

The RDA will be Bolesworth’s official equestrian charity partner.

Lisa Davies, head of RDA communications, said: “RDA groups support thousands of

disabled people every year from accessing physical exercise and achieving their therapeutic or personal goals, to combatting social isolation and boosting wellbeing and happiness.

“We know that the engagement between people and horses makes a very powerful impact, and we couldn’t do any of it without our amazing horses and volunteers, and the generous support of so many.

“We’re very grateful to Bolesworth for choosing us, and excited to share our work with visitors to the event. RDA delivers a lot more than people may realise, and this is a fantastic opportunity for us to demonstrate the value of what we do, the benefits of volunteering, and encourage visitors to get involved and help transform more lives.”

Isuzu UK partners with Badminton Horse Trials

Car company Isuzu UK will be official vehicle sponsor at Badminton Horse Trials, presented by Mars Equestrian.

It will provide around 30 vehicles for the event and will also have a tradestand.

This new sponsorship, a first for the company, will form a central element of Isuzu UK’s events line-up for 2023.

“Isuzu will be a great addition to Badminton and we look forward very much to welcoming them,” said Badminton Horse Trials director Jane Tuckwell.

“It promises to be a particularly special weekend this year, coinciding with the coronation, and we very much hope that the Isuzu team will enjoy being part of it.”

George Wallis, head of marketing for Isuzu UK, said: “This new partnership is a brilliant opportunity for both Isuzu UK and Badminton Horse Trials.

“More and more consumers in the outdoor lifestyle sector are discovering the multi-award winning Isuzu D-Max range.

“We are excited for our pick-ups to be working across this iconic event, as well as being on display there. The Isuzu D-Max range not only demonstrates our commitment to pick-up excellence, but will also resonate with discerning visitors.”

Race Against Dementia charity partner for Randox Grand National Festival

Global charity Race Against Dementia, founded by three-time Formula 1 world champion Sir Jackie Stewart, is revealed as the charity partner for the 2023 Randox Grand National Festival.

The partnership will involve Randox supporting the charity over the three days (13 to 15 April), to highlight the the impact of the disease and raise funds for research.

On Ladies’ Day (14 April), Randox’s sponsored race over the Grand National fences will be titled The Randox Supports Race Against Dementia Topham Chase.

The 2023 festival also marks a return to Aintree for Sir Jackie, who raced there in the 1960s, at a time when Aintree was part of the Formula 1 grand prix circuit.

“It is a great privilege to partner with an organisation which is an active innovator and is supporting our mission to accelerate the progress of dementia research,” said Sir Jackie.

“We are confident that working together with Randox will help to raise funds that will allow us to break new ground in the search for a cure or prevention of dementia.

“On a personal front, I have raced at Aintree before – it is a pleasure to be back, with another ‘race’ in mind.”

Eventing Breaks and Uvex in new British Eventing deals

Specialist travel and hospitality company Eventing Breaks has signed a deal with British Eventing (BE) to become a business partner and supporter of BE’s youth programme.

Eventing Breaks, which is part of Racing Breaks, offers sporting fans trips to some of the top international events in the country as well as the FEI European Eventing Championships.

Arron Taylor, managing director of Racing Breaks and Eventing Breaks, said: “Being as established as we are in the racing market, it felt a natural progression for us to move into eventing, in which so many of our existing customers also have an interest.

“Our team is led by equestrian enthusiasts and travel experts, including sports broadcaster Aly Vance, who can all offer first-hand insight and years of experience in attending the events that we offer across the globe.

“This makes all the difference when crafting the perfect event-going experience and we see this very much part of the unique feel we will be able to give our guests at the eventing dates we are offering this year.”

Maria Haig, BE’s head of commercial and marketing, said the organisation is “delighted” to be announcing the partnership.

“When speaking to Arron and his team it was clearly evident that this was more than just a business venture for them; it was driven by a genuine passion for the sport.

“Their desire to bring people to some of the best events in the country and give them an incredible few days away is matched also by a desire to support the sporting framework from which our medal winners of the future will develop.

“With this in mind, Eventing Breaks will be making a donation from every booking taken into the British Eventing youth programme, which encompasses the national and international competition structure for our aspiring riders of the future.”

In other BE sponsorship news, Uvex riding helmets is announced as title sponsor of the intermediate masters series. Winners of each intermediate masters leg will receive a voucher for a Uvex helmet.

Maria said Uvex is the “perfect fit” for the series, not only as a brand but also because of Zebra Products managing director Simon Middleton’s belief in the series and one he is hoping to target personally.

Zebra Products is the UK distributor of Uvex.

“Protecting people is at the heart of the Uvex brand, which really resonates with us here at British Eventing and we can’t thank them enough for supporting and getting behind the series,” added Maria.

Household Cavalry Foundation named as Royal Windsor Horse Show’s official charity

Royal Windsor Horse Show (RWHS) has announced the Household Cavalry Foundation as its official charity for 2023.

The foundation provides charitable and pastoral support to the Household Cavalry’s heritage, its serving soldiers and veterans – as well as their dependents – and the welfare of retired army horses.

The partnership includes the opportunity for the Household Cavalry Foundation to fundraise at the show (11 to 14 May), as well as to have a physical and branding presence.

RWHS director Simon Brooks-Ward said the show is “honoured to be able to support such a worthy cause”.

Household Cavalry Foundation director Giles Stibbe said: ‘‘This is a fantastic opportunity for the Household Cavalry Foundation to explain to the public our welfare support to our soldiers who both guard our sovereign and fight wars for our nation.”

He added it is also a great chance to explain to the public the charity’s help to serving and veteran soldiers, their dependants, and retired horses, and how it works to protect the Household Cavalry’s 363-year heritage.

RWHS has also announced that Defender will continue to be the principal partner of the show and will be sponsoring the returning international dressage as part of that package.

Murray Paul, director of public affairs at Jaguar Land Rover, said: “We have long associated to the world of equestrian and our Defender customers and fans are passionate about the sport.

“We are delighted to continue our commitment for this incredible event and to give everyone in attendance the chance to see our adventurous spirit, capability and innovation against the backdrop of Windsor Castle.”

Piggy March joins Shires Equestrian

Piggy March has joined Shires Equestrian in a new commercial partnership, which involves the Burghley winner becoming one of the company’s sponsored riders.

Shires Equestrian chairman Malcolm Ainge said the team hope this will be “a long and happy arrangement and that our range of products will help Piggy to even greater achievements”.

Piggy added: “Shires Equestrian offers very high-quality products but with affordable prices, both being key in the current climate.

“When it comes to rugs, their Tempest brand offers an amazing range of styles, and colours, to suit every horse we have. They have a rug for every type of weather thrown at us.

“We’ve used Arma boots since they were first released. Simple in design, they’re very protective, fit extremely well. The boots don’t retain water, making them lighter for the horse, and every little bit really helps in our sport.

“To be honest when we are as busy as we are, it’s also important to work with a very professional team and Shires are just that – very helpful, knowledgeable, and consistent.”

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Louise Saywell’s rising stable star Kingsborough Kasper came of age to score an emphatic win in the Dodson & Horrell Bolesworth International Horse Show CSI3* grand prix (3 July).

The nine-year-old stallion, owned by Ian and Ruth Dowie, was the FEI leading seven-year-old in the world in 2020, and has graduated from child prodigy to back-to-back international grand prix winner.

“He wants to win. He loves being competitive as much as I do,” said Louise.

“The last four grands prix he has been double clear and top five, he won his last one in the CSI2* at Keysoe (11 June). This was a big step up for him, as he hadn’t done a 1.50m before, but he has got a lot of talent.

“He has always been very consistent, he was the world-leading seven-year-old. Once you step up to these ranking classes at two- and three-star, it’s a different ball game. We always believed he could do it, but until they are doing it, you never know.

“You expect a horse to have to find his way at the higher jumps, getting used to jumping them. But for him to go straight in and do that was something else.”

The pair’s line to the last fence was the deciding factor in their victory. Kasper appeared to hang a little, giving Louise an anxious moment, but their bravery paid off and they landed clear, stopping the clock more than a second ahead of runners up Sweden’s Angelie von Essen and Daniel.

The top 25% of the 50 starters (13 competitors) were brought back for the second round, carrying their faults from the first. This gives these classes a different dynamic, as it is possible for competitors who had faults in the first round to leapfrog those who jumped clear.

Three riders started the second round on zero scores – and all three maintained their clean sheets to finish on the podium.

“The time was something you had to be very mindful of, you had to cut those corners and really keep thinking about it. As you saw from William Funnell [and Equine America Billy Diamo], he jumped clear and had four time faults,” added Louise. “Now it’s not one time-fault for every four seconds, and it’s one time-fault for every second, it’s very influential.”

Angelie and great grey jumping stallion Daniel, owned by James Davenport, bounced across Louis Konickx’s lofty, delicately built tracks.

“He is 14 now and is just getting better every year,” she said. “I thought it was an amazing build and the time was absolutely spot on, you had to move on a bit. The course was big, but not crazy big, it was really fine and technical – you needed to ride it.”

She added that she is not a fan of the 25% format as it doesn’t encourage riders to take as many risks as perhaps they would do if everyone was on a starting score of zero.

Robert Murphy and the aptly named How Easy penned their names as ones to watch in future with a classy double clear to finish third.

“I had planned to not take as many risks as I would have liked, just to try and secure the position I had,” said Robert, reflecting on the impact others carrying first-round faults had on his tactics.

“As the slowest of the [three] first-round clears, I was first of those to jump in the second round. I wanted to secure that third place and to make Louise and Angelie chase me a little bit and cause them to fault. They managed to get in front of me, but I was really happy. It went as planned so I can’t complain.

“We’ve been knocking on the door of a big result and it’s good to finally get one.”

The 10-year-old Talan son is relatively inexperienced for his age. He only stepped up from newcomers last year, but he and his 21-year-old rider performed with composure and maturity to secure the first clear in the 50-strong class.

“I thought the first round walked quite tough. I thought the lines were quite difficult. I didn’t think it was overly big, but it was big enough to make us struggle with the distances,” he said. “There were a few really delicate jumps, like the planks, that caused a lot of issues. The vertical before the combination I thought was quite difficult to jump. as well as the combination and I think the time forced us to travel and [competitors] to make faults. I thought his timing was perfect, all three of us just sneaked inside.”

While faults were generally spread across the course, there were a few hotspots. The first part of the music note oxer at 5a, on a curving line of either seven or eight strides from the red and green oxer, caught plenty out in the early stages of the 13-fence track. The white planks at fence seven, the middle part of a related distance, spent a significant amount of time on the floor. Fence 9, an orange upright on a roll-back turn to the turquoise treble at fence 10abc, and the Dodson & Horrell upright at fence 12 all ended multiple hopes of grand prix glory.

Robert added he has worked closely with How Easy’s owners David and Julie Andrews, who co-own the horse with Sandra Low-Mitchell, to form a solid partnership with the gelding.

“Julie rode him, so she knows him really well. We select his classes really carefully to step him up comfortably, as he’s a really careful horse,” he said. “He’s just gone from strength to strength all this time.”

Those in fourth to seventh places all jumped clear in the second round, to finish on their first round scores of four faults, meaning that time again proved the deciding factor.

Adrian Speight and Millfield Baloney were fourth in the fastest time of the class over the second round (46.04 seconds), with Anna Power and Mcqueen in fifth (47.18) and Yazmin Davis on Zanbowa Z sixth (48.13).

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Puissance first-timers Mark Edwards and the homebred Montreuxs Tale took top honours in a spectacular red wall debut at the 2022 Dodson & Horrell Bolesworth International Horse Show (2 July).

The pair were the sole combination to clear the 2.19m wall in the fifth and final round of the 2022 puissance, sponsored by eVet Drug. They landed to a huge cheer from the crowds lining the banks of Bolesworth’s amphitheatre in the evening sun. Wimbledon has Henman Hill and in Cheshire tonight, there was Montreuxs’ Mound.

“Dad told me ‘don’t go too early’ so I was just thinking ‘wait, wait, wait’ as long as I dared,” Mark told H&H.

“Once you take off, that feeling is just mega – everything slows down. Originally I was just planning to do two or three rounds, but he loved it so much I thought ‘I can’t give up now’.

“He just cantered down to it and the higher it went, the higher he went.”

It sounds so simple, really. But then that’s the beauty of top athletes is they make the extraordinary appear seamless – and what makes this horse so special is his exceptional versatility in being able to do that across all kinds of classes.

Mark and the “level-headed” 12-year-old Tinkers Tale son, owned by Martyn Edwards, count the Queen’s Cup at Hickstead, speed classes and international grands prix among their successes.

“His brain is so good. He’s so scopey and just has a great attitude to life,” said Mark.

“He’s an amazing horse with a real good attitude. We are lucky that we bred him. He’s a big softy, just easy to have about and loves his job. He’s never sick or sorry, he just comes out and gets on with his job.”

He added: “It was a great buzz, to do it in front of the crowds adds to it all – it’s what we do it for, really. It’s definitely a night to remember.”

This was also among the biggest – and was touted by the commentators as the largest ever – wall in Bolesworth’s history. Shane Breen and Acorad 3 cleared 2.20m in 2018 to take the glory in that record-setting year.

Prolific puissance winners Guy Williams and Mr Blue Sky UK, owned by Caroline Phillips, were the only other combination to make the fifth round this year. The debutants taking on the kings of the red wall in a poetic ending to the sporting showdown.

Mark and Montreuxs Tale jumped first, meaning Guy and the 13-year-old Chacco-Blue gelding Mr Blue Sky UK had to jump clear if they were to tie for first place. The bricks fell, putting Guy and the grey crowd favourite into second behind Mark.

Irish rider Daniel McAlinden and The Stallion Company’s 12-year-old Chapristi were third, knocking the 2.13m wall in the fourth round.

France’s Daniel Delsart and the powerful British-bred 16-year-old gelding Granby, owned by Derek Meeds, and Ireland’s David Simpson with nine-year-old catch ride Senators Rhondaigo, owned by Deborah Lax, both also went out in the fourth round, to take equal fourth place.

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Paul Sims and Dream Roller carried orange ribbons to victory in support of a five-year-old boy undergoing treatment for Leukaemia in Friday night’s CSI3* feature class at the Dodson & Horrell Bolesworth International Horse Show (29 June to 3 July).

The pair were drawn last to go in the eight-strong jump-off in the Dodson & Horrell-sponsored 1.50m grand prix qualifier and ended Carmen Edwards and Happy Valerie’s short-held lead to score an emotional win.

Paul wore an orange pin on his lapel and the 11-year-old gelding wore a ribbon in his tail in support of owners Karen and Pete Littler’s five-year-old grandson Charlie, who was diagnosed with lymphoblastic leukaemia in January.

“It means the absolute world to the owners and to me,” Paul told H&H, adding his thoughts are with “little Charlie” and raising awareness of the condition.

Paul and the Diamond Roller son are both converts from eventing to the coloured poles.

Paul was known on the eventing circuit for his partnership with the great five-star contender Glengarnock, with whom he completed Badminton and Burghley on a combined total of eight occasions.

The 35-year-old produced Dream Roller from a five-year-old to intermediate level, before they switched to showjumping.

“I decided I was going to stop eventing a couple of years ago and he was eight at the time, so he was the first horse I started showjumping on,” said Paul, adding he has taken things steady with the Irish gelding, as he has taken a while to develop into his frame.

“He just gets better and better all the time,” he said. “We have to keep him fit and trim, he would be a good doer. He’s an incredible horse and an unbelievable character on the yard. We love him to bits.

“Yesterday was my first ever ranking class and I came second, today was my first 1.50 and we won.

“Over the last month he has been going really well. He jumped Bramham grand prix for four faults, where I let him down. I let him down yesterday where we had four faults, I jumped an area trial with him a few weeks ago, where I let him down as we had one down. I wanted everything today to just go right, and it has. It’s unbelievable.”

He added: “He was a bit sticky on the line from two to three – he clocked an umbrella at the back of the arena and I thought ‘are we going or not?’ After that everything felt foot-perfect.

“In the jump-off I thought ‘I’m last to go, I’m qualified for the grand prix, I’m going to get stuck in and see what happens.”

The decision paid off and Paul stopped the clock 0.19 seconds ahead of good friend and football team-mate Carmen.

“I thought I’d done enough, but I got a bit carried away and Paul has just done an unbelievable round. It’s fantastic to have both of us here, it’s a home show for both of us. So to have that result at home, you can’t describe it,” said Carmen, who overcame a double wardrobe malfunction that meant both horse and rider needed “re-showing” ahead of their round.

The mare pulled a shoe off in the warm-up, and Carmen’s boots gave way. One farrier and some gaffer tape later, and the combination produced a lightning performance to pile the pressure on Paul.

“I was sweating a little bit when I came in, I lost a shoe and so did the horse! She’s a wonderful mare, I’ve had her since she was a three-year-old,” said Carmen, thanking his parents and the Kelletts, who own the 10-year-old Verdi daughter.

“They’ve supported me with this horse. Like Paul, we usually produce and sell them, so for me to be able to compete in this ring and in this class and then to have that result, you can’t really put that into words,” said Carmen.

“It’s always nice to win, but me and Paul see each other on the four-year-olds at Kelsall day in, day out, ducking and diving and I have as much respect for him and how he works as he does for me. Yes of course I would love to have won, but for Paul to beat me is like a win.”

Carmen was wearing a yellow heart pin on his lapel, in support of Shaz Quigley, who sustained serious head injuries in an accident a year ago.

“My mum is one of Shaz’s best friends and goes to see her everyday, it means something to my mum and to Shaz and it’s something I’ll never take off now,” he added.

Third place went to Yazmin Davis, riding Alison Davis’ 13-year-old Zandor gelding Zanbowa Z.

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A feast of top sport at the equestrian mecca that is CHIO Aachen, plus big names at Bolesworth and other events this week

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Nina Barbour, who organises international shows at Bolesworth and Liverpool, as well as Bolesworth Elite Auctions, reels from the rising costs in the competition events industry

FURTHER to Carl Hester’s comment in H&H (“The cost of shows is eye-opening”), this year has been a horrible wake-up call for everyone. Competitors, business owners and show organisers have been hit by rising costs across the industry, and it’s tough out there.

The biggest hit for the events industry has been fuel-cost increases, which not only impacts the thousands of litres we buy to run generators, but also the delivery charges from all the suppliers of infrastructure on site.

New regulations came in this year that mean events are no longer allowed to use red diesel (less than half the price of standard diesel), at the same time as the actual cost of diesel is rising exponentially. Costs have risen about 15% across the board and making the books balance is harder than ever.

It was devastating to be in a position to have to cancel the international dressage event here at Bolesworth. While these rising costs were a huge contributing factor, unfortunately, reality hit and it became clear that a stand-alone dressage event without a critical mass of both hospitality and public ticket sales couldn’t work for us financially, without facing running the event at a huge loss.

We are keen to get the formula right and see international dressage return to Bolesworth next year as part of the Dodson & Horrell International Horse Show.

The sport doesn’t come without its challenges.

We all aspire to attract the elite top riders who maintain the profile of the sport and are the driver for public attendance and media attention. Unlike the showjumpers, who generally have a big string of horses that compete regularly, the top dressage riders tend to have one top horse that only needs to compete a handful of times during the season, so it’s hard to find a date that fits for everyone.

It is brilliant to see so many familiar faces returning to Bolesworth this week, with Holly Smith, Joe Stockdale, Jack Whitaker and Will Funnell to name a few back on home soil. Referring to Graham Fletcher’s comment last week, I fear that due to the post-Brexit cost and horse welfare implications of travelling abroad, we are going to see even more riders forced to spend more time based in Europe. This has huge implications for the industry in the UK, and we all need to lobby to force changes to be made.

Huge improvements in British breeding

ON a positive note, we have had a great response this year from British breeders and producers. I am excited about the collections we are showcasing at the Science Supplements A-list auction this week and the foals at the Al Shira’aa Bolesworth Young Horse Championships in August.

Since we started the auctions, we have seen huge improvements in the quality of breeding. Increasingly, breeders are investing in mares with serious dam lines that even three years ago would have been hard to find in the UK. While there is no guarantee that black-type parents will result in success, the quality shone through during our recent selection days.

• This exclusive column will also be available to read in Horse & Hound magazine, on sale Thursday 30 June

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Michael Owen to compete at major British show, plus more sponsorship news

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

CHIO Aachen kicks off this week in Germany, while closer to home there’s plenty of top-class sport and excitement to be had at Bolesworth, Somerford Park and Devon County.

1, CHIO Aachen, Germany

Dates: 28 June-3 July

More info: chioaachen.de/en/

How to watch: live stream available via Clip My Horse

Get the H&H lowdown: Combined report from the three Olympic disciplines in 7 July issue

Why we’re excited about it: the world’s top showjumpers descend on this equestrian mecca for some of the most prestigious prizes in the sport. The Rolex grand prix, part of the Rolex Grand Slam of Showjumping is the class they all want to win, while Great Britain will once again be represented in the prestigious Nations Cup, with an A-list squad of Ben Maher, Scott Brash, John Whitaker, Harry Charles and Jessica Mendoza.

CHIO Aachen always attracts a stellar dressage field, too, and this year is no different, with many of the combinations expected to dominate at the dressage World Championships later this summer in action this week in Aachen. Germany’s Isabell Werth heads the home attack, while Denmark will put out a full complement of top combinations. Britain fields a good team, too, with Lottie Fry, Lara Butler, Laura Tomlinson and Susan Pape all in action in the five-star Nations Cup.

On the eventing side, Aachen is the cream of the CCI4*-S calendar and the home side, Germany, will field a crack team led by Kentucky Three-Day Event winners Michael Jung and FischerChipmunk and Olympic champions Julia Krajewski and Amande De B’Neville. A strong British quartet consisting of Ros Canter (Allstar B), Tom McEwen (Toledo De Kerser), William Fox-Pitt (Little Fire) and Yasmin Ingham (Rehy DJ) will take them on, while Sarah Bullimore and Corouet will compete under the Union flag as individuals.

2, Dodson & Horrell Bolesworth International Horse Show, Cheshire

Dates: 29 June-3 July

More info: bolesworthinternational.com

How to watch: horseandcountry.tv/liveevents

Get the H&H lowdown: bumper report in next week’s issue of H&H, in the shops on Thursday, 7 July, with online updates throughout the week

Why we’re excited about it: one of the country’s most popular international shows with classes ranging from the puissance to the mini-major to the grand prix, young horse and pony classes, featuring many of the sport’s leading names.

3, Devon County Show

Dates: 30 June-2 July

More info: devoncountyshow.co.uk

Get the H&H lowdown: Full report in 14 July issue of H&H

Why we’re excited about it: A traditional three-day agricultural show with a host of equine classes for horses and ponies of all types and breeds. The in-hand classes culminate in a Horse of the Year Show supreme in-hand championship qualifier on the final day, which is sure to be a stunning showcase of breed and section champions.

4, Baileys Horse Feeds Somerford Park Horse Trials, Cheshire

Dates: 1-3 July

More info: schedule on the British Eventing website

Get the H&H lowdown: full report in 7 July issue of the magazine

Why we’re excited about it: three full days of sport will come to a head with the jumping phases of the two international classes on Sunday. The CCI3*-S and CCI2*-S have over 100 entries each. Ibble Watson (Aristoteles S Z), Phoebe Locke (Pica D’Or) and Sarah Way (Dassett Cooley Dun) are ones to watch in the flagship CCI3*-S.

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Former England footballer Michael Owen will be behind the wheel in the ride and drive competition at Bolesworth International Horse Show (29 June to 3 July) as part of a new partnership agreement.

The former England striker turned racehorse owner/breeder has signed a deal with Bolesworth Estate to attend a number of events in the Cheshire venue’s calendar in 2022.

Michael will be the “headline name” at Bolesworth International. He will join 20-time champion jockey AP McCoy and other celebrities from the sport and entertainment worlds competing in the ride and drive on “speed and style day” (30 June).

“Bolesworth is a fabulous location with a superb event calendar running across the year – where there really is something for everyone to enjoy,” said Michael.

“I am looking forward to the partnership and to be taking part in the first big event at Bolesworth this summer.

“There is real synergy between Bolesworth and [my] Manor House Stables and I hope through this partnership there will be the opportunity to showcase horse racing and racehorse ownership to a new and interested audience.”

Bolesworth Estate managing director Nina Barbour said that Michael, owner of nearby Manor House Stables, is a “familiar face” at Bolesworth.

“It is wonderful that we have now taken this a step further,” said Nina, who added that Michael’s daughter, dressage rider Gemma Owen – who has recently entered the Love Island villa – has competed at Bolesworth in the past.

“I am really looking forward to welcoming Michael to a host of events throughout the year ahead – and to be competing with him too in our big season launch event.”

Riding a Dream Academy secures funding and expansion

The Riding a Dream Academy has secured three years’ seed funding by the Racing Foundation to expand its programmes following a successful pilot year.

The academy supports young riders aged 14 to 18 from diverse ethnic backgrounds, under-represented communities and urban equestrian centres get involved in racing.

It currently runs the year-long Khadijah Mellah Scholarship for riders, plus a riding-based residential week at the British Racing School (BRS).

A parent of one of the academy students said that the positive impact it has had on her daughter’s life is “immeasurable”.

“Her lifelong dream of training as a jockey has been made possible by this opportunity and I hope she can continue to work towards her goals now that this door has opened,” the parent said. “It has literally changed her life in ways I could not have made possible – I am for ever grateful.”

To date, 60% of the academy’s applicants, and 73% of students in the pilot year, are from diverse ethnic backgrounds. This compares to just 2% of jockeys and between 3 and 5% of individuals who currently go on the industry’s entry-level foundation course.

The academy has also announced that it will add a non-riding residential week to its rosta, catering for large numbers applying who lacked access to horses and sufficient riding experience, as well as regional weeks to take the academy out into communities. All programmes will be delivered by the BRS team.

“Being able to provide amazing opportunities to talented riders and young people with an interest in horse racing from a wide range of communities is at the heart of the academy,” said co-founder Naomi Lawson, who will move from her role of director of communications at Great British Racing to lead the academy.

“We are excited to be able to expand our programmes and reach many more individuals thanks to the Racing Foundation’s funding. The pilot has demonstrated the impact that the academy can have in making racing more diverse and inclusive with our students already working in the industry, applying for the foundation course and taking up other opportunities within the sport.”

ITV Racing’s Oli Bell, who co-founded the academy, said they are “incredibly grateful” to the Racing Foundation for its “enduring support” of the academy and sharing their vision of a more diverse and inclusive sport.

“The foundation has been with us from the start when they helped to fund the original Riding A Dream documentary, which followed Khadijah Mellah’s incredible story [to become the first Muslim woman to participate – and win – a horse race in Britain], through to our pilot year,” he said.

“For us to be in the position to support many other young people from diverse and under-represented backgrounds through their funding is a fitting legacy to all that Khadijah achieved and will help racing identify and support diverse talent from across the country.”

Bates continues support of Riders Minds

Bates Saddles is extending its support of Riders Minds for the second year.

Riders Minds’ focus is on supporting the mental health of horse riders of all levels through online resources and a free, confidential 24-hour phone and text service.

“As part of our commitment to the equestrian community, Bates Saddles are delighted to support Riders Minds to raise awareness and promote the importance of mental health,” said Bates Saddles managing director Ron Bates.

“Hopefully, this initiative will help riders recognise warning signs, manage their stress and find help when needed.”

Riders Minds is also supported by British Equestrian, TheraPlate, and Charles Owen.

Boodles extends Gold Cup sponsorship after ‘epic’ 2022

Jeweller Boodles is extending its sponsorship of the Cheltenham Gold Cup at the Cheltenham Festival to 2023 and 2024.

Boodles managing director Michael Wainwright said the company’s board had “no hesitation” in extending its association following the success of the 2022 Gold Cup.

“After an epic build-up to this year’s Cheltenham Gold Cup and then a wonderful day for the race itself, capped by the charismatic Rachael Blackmore being the first female jockey to win it, the Boodles board had no hesitation in extending our association by another two years,” he said.

“The whole experience was fabulous exposure for Boodles, and for me personally it provided one of the best days of my life.”

Boodles is also extending its sponsorship of the Boodles juvenile handicap hurdle at the Festival, which it has supported since 2018, for a further two years and gains further sponsorship rights across the Jockey Club.

Ian Renton, managing director for Cheltenham racecourse and the Jockey Club’s west region, said: “I am thrilled that Boodles has decided to further extend its relationship with the Festival by agreeing to sponsor the next two renewals of the Cheltenham Gold Cup.

“After enjoying a record attendance this year, the 2023 running of the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup takes place on St Patrick’s Day and the great race celebrates its centenary in 2024, so I am sure there are some truly memorable days ahead.

“Boodles is now approaching a decade of involvement with the Festival and hopefully has reaped the benefits of its association with the four biggest days in jump racing.

“Coverage of the Festival seems to start earlier and be more extensive with each passing year and it was a milestone moment this year when the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup received its first broadcast on national television in the USA.

“We look forward to continuing to work alongside the team at Boodles with their tremendous passion and commitment as well all our other partners, both old and new, in the coming times ahead.”

NAF supports Hartpury summer fixtures

NAF is continuing its support of major summer equestrian fixtures at Hartpury University and College this year.

The supplement brand returns as title sponsor of Hartpury’s Festival of Dressage (5-10 July), Showjumping Spectacular (26-29 June) and the international horse trials (10-14 August).

Eloise Chugg-Martin, UK sponsorship and events manager for NAF, said the fixtures are “such a principal part of our events calendar”.

“We’re thrilled to welcome competitors new and returning, along with spectators, and are looking forward to a jam-packed summer of quality sport around Hartpury’s impressive venue,” she said.

Phillip Cheetham, equine director at Hartpury, added that NAF is a “hugely important part of the Hartpury family and is synonymous with equestrianism at Hartpury”.

“It’s a privilege to be aligned with a brand that is instantly recognisable and trusted by so many equestrians, as well as being a leading champion of clean sport,” he said.

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The Bloomfield Horseboxes CDI3* international dressage show at Bolesworth has been cancelled. The event was due to run from 24-26 June, as the first dressage show at be hosted at Bolesworth since 2019, and for the first time as a standalone show, rather than being run alongside showjumping. However, “the rising costs of staging world class events” have forced organisers to pull the plug. The Elite Dressage auction due to take place on 25 June has also been cancelled.

“Our plan for this year was to replicate our successful showjumping shows for dressage, but sadly, with the rising costs of staging world-class events, current circumstances have resulted in reduced numbers that affect the commercial viability of the show and, consequently, we have little choice but to cancel,” said a statement from the Bolesworth team.

“While we did have plenty of interest and support from dressage riders who were keen to compete at Bolesworth, at both national and international level, our model for equestrian events is heavily reliant on public ticket sales and hospitality, not just entries, and the challenges of the current economic climate have inevitably affected both of these areas.”

Bolesworth managing director Nina Barbour said: “We apologise to those of you who have the Bolesworth Dressage event in your calendar and were looking forward to attending, especially those riders entered, who we know make plans well in advance, and really do understand the disappointment that this decision will cause.”

The news comes as a particular blow for those riders who were planning to compete at Bolesworth to gain their minimum eligibility requirement scores, to qualify them to compete at this August’s dressage World Championships. One such rider is Carl Hester, who had planned to compete at Wellington CDI in mid-June, followed by Bolesworth two weeks later, with his catch ride for the summer, the Kroll family’s grand prix horse KK Woodstock.

Without Bolesworth, Carl has limited options when it comes to events at which to obtain the qualification criteria with Woodstock, with no remaining international shows in Britain before the qualification cut-off date of 4 July. The final international dressage show of the season on British soil is Hartpury CDI4*, which falls after the cut-off date, running on 8-10 July.

To qualify to participate at the World Championships, combinations must achieve at least two scores of 66% or above at grand prix, given by two five-judges of a different nationality, at two different CDI shows before the nominated entries are due on 4 July. The selected team of four will then be announced by 25 July.

But Bolesworth has said the team is “working closely with British Dressage [BD] and British Equestrian to see if there is a way of incorporating a condensed version of the CDI3* big tour classes at the Dodson & Horrell Bolesworth International Horse Show in order to retain this valuable opportunity for international riders. We are in consultation with the FEI and will be contacting those riders affected directly in due course.”

BD CEO Jason Brautigam added: ““In partnership with Bolesworth, we will work with the BEF and FEI to determine whether we can reschedule the big tour classes, as we know these CDI opportunities are vitally important for our international riders competing for selection, and thank Nina and her team for their support.”

The Bolesworth team will contact all those who have entered the event or booked tickets, hospitality, or trade stands to arrange full refunds.

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The Household Cavalry Foundation has been named as official charity for the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials 2022 (1 to 4 September).

The Household Cavalry Foundation is the official charity for the Household Cavalry and provides charitable and pastoral welfare support to serving soldiers, operational casualties, veterans and dependants. It also supports its retired horses.

“We are delighted to be supporting the important work undertaken by the Household Cavalry Foundation,” said Burghley Horse Trials director Martyn Johnson.

“The origins of eventing evolved through the training of cavalry horses, meaning there are strong and long-standing links between our sport and the work of the British Army’s cavalry regiments.

“In this jubilee year, when the horses and soldiers of the regiment will be at their ceremonial best, it seemed like a very appropriate time to be supporting the foundation’s work.”

Charity director Giles Stibbe added: “We hope that our partnership with Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials will help us to raise awareness of the essential work the foundation does, helping those who have served our country, both human and equine, in their time of need.

“The charity also works to ensure the history and heritage of the regiment is preserved by our museums and archives.”

Spectators will be able to make a contribution to the foundation when buying tickets and at the event, where they will also be able to meet some of the Household Cavalry horses.

Title sponsor for Bolesworth dressage

Bloomfields Horseboxes is the title partner of Bolesworth’s first standalone international dressage show (24 to 26 June), as the discipline returns to the venue following a three-year break.

National and international classes will run across three arenas over three days. The national classes will run from prelim to advanced, plus para, youth and young horse (Nexgen) competitions. International classes will be held at big and small tour.

“We are delighted to be strengthening our relationship with Bloomfields Horseboxes, one of the UK’s leading horsebox brands, at the same time as welcoming riders and fans of the sport back to Bolesworth,” said Bolesworth managing director Nina Barbour.

Dodson & Horrell will return as title sponsors of the Dodson & Horrell Bolesworth International (29 June to 3 July), which follows the dressage show.

Official gin partner

Cowdray Park Polo Club has signed a three-year official gin partnership deal with No.3 Gin.

The spirit, curated by Berry Bros. & Rudd, will be the exclusive gin served to club members at polo events.

The collaboration is strengthened by Cowdray Estate’s agreement to stock No.3 Gin at its farm shop and cafe, and as the premium gin at Cowdray Park Golf Club.

Emma Fox, chief executive of Berry Bros. & Rudd, said: “I am thrilled that our award-winning No.3 Gin is the exclusive gin partner for Cowdray Park Polo Club. The partnership marks a new chapter in our pursuit of perfection to become the definitive luxury gin and we look forward to connecting discerning drinkers at this iconic polo location, with No.3 Gin.”

Andrew Swaffield, chairman of Cowdray Park Polo Club, added: “Berry Bros. & Rudd is a

distinguished British brand with an illustrious history. We are delighted to be partnering with their critically acclaimed No.3 Gin which will be enjoyed by patrons, players, members and visitors as a perfectly refreshing accompaniment to a day at the home of British polo.”

New deal for Georgie Spence

British five-star event rider Georgie Spence has signed a partnership deal with Swedish clothing brand Stierna Equestrian Sportswear.

“As a professional rider I spend all day, every day, outside and in the saddle,” said Georgie. “Comfortable clothing that is both cooling in the summer and warm and dry in the winter is a key element to success. Equally, I want to look smart for both myself, my owners, my team and when representing sponsors.

“Stierna delivers on all fronts, offering the very best technical fabrics and designs. I’m looking forward to working closely with Helena and Robert at Stierna Equestrian Sportswear over

the coming year and am extremely grateful for their support.”

Robert Kos, head of marketing and sustainability at Stierna, added: “With the addition of Georgie, Stierna Equestrian Sportswear deepens the commitment to the eventing scene with another equestrian athlete with both great horsemanship and great sportsmanship.

“She is joining a team with some of the top event riders in the world.

“We have been missing the competition scene and we look forward to a new season where all our riders have the chance of showing the results of the hard work that has been put in during training days in all kinds of weather conditions. Just the way we like it.”

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The team at Bolesworth is “delighted” to welcome international dressage back to the venue, after a three-year break.

World-class horses and riders are expected at a three-day “spectacular” CDI3*, from 24 to 26 June. Dressage has previously run alongside international showjumping at Bolesworth, but this will be a standalone event.

National and international classes are on the schedule, with three arenas running competition from prelim to international grand prix level, as is para dressage for the first time.

Bolesworth managing director Nina Barbour said: “We were so disappointed not to have been able to run dressage here last year due to issues with the calendar, but are delighted to be welcoming the dressage world back to Bolesworth for what promises to be a huge celebration of the sport at every level, and a chance for riders of every level to immerse themselves in the full Bolesworth experience.”

The best former racehorse in each national section will win a prize donated by Retraining of Racehorses, and young horses have a chance to shine in the Nexgen classes, for four-, five-, six- and seven-year-olds, with the chance to qualify for the finals at Hickstead.

Visitors will also be able to watch a demonstration by Olympic rider Richard Davison and his student Sarah Higgins.

Richard said: “There really is no other place like Bolesworth. It is perfect for developing our young horses and giving our more experienced horses valuable match practice in a big arena atmosphere before heading to major championships.”

British Dressage (BD) chief executive Jason Brautigam said it is good to see dressage return to the venue.

“There are some fantastic opportunities for riders across the whole of the spectrum, including our under-21s and para athletes, so I am sure this will be warmly welcomed and well supported by British Dressage members,” he said.

“Bolesworth is a special venue, providing top-class facilities and a true international atmosphere, which creates a unique experience for competitors and spectators alike. We are really looking forward to seeing three days of spectacular dressage action in the heart of Cheshire this June.”

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Ronnie Jones adds the six-year-old final to Kaleche’s four- and five-year-old titles, while a Scottish rider claims the technical two-star grand prix at the Al Shira’aa Bolesworth Young Horse Championships, held at Bolesworth Castle in Cheshire

NEW champions were crowned from record entries of future stars competing in the vast international arena with its beautiful castle backdrop in rolling Cheshire countryside at the Al Shira’aa Bolesworth Young Horse Championships.

Ronnie Jones made a triumphant return with Ruth Dowie’s Kaleche to take the Windmill Farm Estate six-year-old championship, 12 months after heading the five-year-old title. They also finished equal first in the four-year-old championship.

The initial 128 entries were reduced to 59 for the final with 14 contending the jump-off. The clear round bonus money and the opportunity to qualify for the World Breeding Championships in Lanaken, Belgium, added to the pressure and shaped riders’ tactics. It didn’t faze Ronnie and he stormed to victory by three seconds, won a share of the £4,000 bonus and is in consideration for Lanaken.

The bonus is offered in the five, six and seven-year-olds to horses jumping clear in both qualifiers and the final. Three shared the six-year-old cash to pick up £1,334 each – Ronnie with Kaleche, Joe Trunkfield aboard RSH Deal Breaker (Action Breaker x Lux Z) and Lucy Townley on Billy Marionette (Cevin Z x Billy Congo).

The F One USA x Nassau mare Kaleche was purchased as a two-year-old by Ruth Dowie of Runningwell Sport Horses and proved a winner from the off. This year has been phenomenal, with the Windsor six-year-old title and the Big Star national six-year-old championship as well as qualifying for the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) newcomers.

“She’s laid-back, easy-going and even lazy at home – if you saw her bumbling around the school you wouldn’t think a lot of her, but she gives you a good feeling in the ring. She loves the atmosphere and rises to the occasion. When I say we need to go up 10 gears, she’s ready and reliable – that’s what makes her special,” said Ronnie.

Kaleche can also be tagged as a working mum with embryo transfer foals on the ground this year and a promising two-year-old colt by Invictus.

Seven-year-old championship

QUALITY was evident in the 13-horse jump-off to decide the Al Shira’aa seven-year-old champion, but Jack Ryan scythed two seconds off the leading time to win on brand-new ride Operette Van De Koekoek (Thunder Van De Zuuthoeve x Skippy II). Jack is stable jockey for Shane Breen and on the Rolex young riders academy under Scott Brash.

“Shane only bought her two weeks ago and I’ve jumped her a couple of times with Scott. She’s laid-back and easy, the course was delicate but she’s super-careful,” said Jack, who was aided in the jump-off by the mare’s former rider Michael Duffy, who sent him a video of the leader at that point, Trevor Breen on Jicarla T.

“I thought, ‘That’s not me,’ then realised it was Trevor’s jump-off round so I knew exactly what I had to do.”

Three claimed the seven-year-old bonus for £1,334 each – Jack on Operette, fellow Irish competitor Jessica Burke with Ashdale Divine (Luidam x Lux Z) and Graham Gillespie on Ovidius VD Donkhoeve (Zirocco Blue x Chin Chin).

Five-year-old championship

The Dallamires Stables five-year-old championship was a shout for British breeding as the top four from an original 143 starters were British, Megan James claiming victory on John and Laura Renwick’s Labatt.

The Tangelo Van De Zuuthoeve x Orlando gelding bred by Devon-based Edward Bleekman was purchased on his bloodlines as the full brother to Laura’s former top ride Bintang.

“Laura’s ridden him once and said he’s unbelievably similar to ‘Bing’,” said Megan, who got the ride when she joined the Renwick’s Essex base in December. “He’s destined for the top and can jump big jumps. I don’t want her to ride him again, she’ll pinch him!”

The last three weeks haven’t been all plain sailing. A freak accident resulted in a startled Labatt spooking as Megan cleaned his hind feet and kicking her teeth out.

“A private dentist and £10,000 later and I’ve got new teeth. He’s slowly paying me back and he got kicked himself in the warm-up just before we went in. I thought, ‘Disaster!’ but he wasn’t fazed and trotted sound,” explained Megan.

Six claimed a share of the bonus – Lottie Tutt on Billy Legend (Cevin Z x Riesling Du Monselet), Laura Renwick’s NFS Angelina (Arko x Couleur Rubin), Millie Allen on Be Magic Cornet (Cornet Obolensky x Cambridge), John Crippen’s Bennys Kelly (Tullibards Bennys Legacy x Harlequin Du Carel), Aoife O’Connor on Lucardo O (Eldorado VD Zeshoek x Heartbreaker) and William Whitaker with Lancaster (Tangelo VD Zuuthoeve x Indoctro).

Four-year-old style and performance

Chloe Reynolds produced two smooth, impressive rounds to claim the 82-strong four-year-old style and performance class by one point on Sally Jobson-Scott’s German-bred Domination F Z (Dominator 2000 Z x Piano II).

“He’s a big, strong four-year-old, but kind and gentle and so easy to ride. He has so much scope he finds it all effortless, although he’s sensitive and needed a look-see round the arena. But he improved every time and walked into the presentation like an old grand prix horse,” said Chloe.

Irish-based international sport horse agent Barry O’Connor, who was judging, said: “It was tight – only six marks split the top five. The presentation and production were at an impressively high standard.

“The horses needed a forward canter, balance and rideability in that big arena and Domination was scopey, quick in front and balanced with a good attitude.”

Twenty horses shared a clear-round bonus prize of £2,000.

Smith secures two-star victory

THE young horse championships were complemented by the international schedule, with Scotland’s James Smith claiming a Hollywood-style victory in the final draw of the world ranking Al Shira’aa two-star grand prix on the feisty Simply Splendid.

The 13-fence 1.45m track set by course-designer Raf Suarez caught out many of the 49 starters with the final line of oxer to vertical double to a square water tray oxer to finish proving most influential.

“All the fences came quickly, it wasn’t massive but the lines were technical with all the questions you’d expect,” said James.

Just three provided clears with another three on one frustrating time-fault each. They were joined in the jump-off by the fastest of the four-faulters under the rule that the 25% go through to the jump-off carrying their faults, making 13 for the final decider.

Several of the four-faulters jumped clear second time out, but were relegated by William Whitaker carrying one time-fault jumping a foot-perfect clear aboard Galtur.

He held on to the lead until Ireland’s Jenny Rankin posted a double clear on Carmela Z. In turn, she dropped to second as James came home 1.88sec quicker on “Simon” to pocket £7,788.

“He had one down in both the qualifiers, but managed to sneak qualification and got better as the show went on,” said James, who will now give the Ustinov x Cavalier 12-year-old a couple of quiet weeks. “He’s just back from a three-month break and I’m happy with this. He’s very opinionated, but the more he bucks and swishes his tail – he’s always done it and doesn’t make it easy for himself – the better he jumps. He’s easy to work with, just has that bit of attitude.”

Anthony Condon narrowly claimed the first 1.40m two-phase with the Hales family’s Zira VH Kapelhof Z with 0.08sec to spare over Ava Vernon’s junior European individual gold medallist Jolie Fleur Van De Noordheuvel.

“She’s an athlete, naturally fast, doesn’t want to touch the jumps and fights for the win,” said Anthony of the Zurich x Quickfeuer Van Koekshof 12-year-old, who wears a mask.

“It isn’t titanium, just a normal mask, but it helps dull out the sound and the feeling on her face is like a comfort blanket; she’s feisty and it keeps her settled.”

Faye Adams’ late draw on Demograaf in an 83-strong two-star 1.40 two-phase snatched victory by 0.19sec and denied Anthony a second win.

A double winner here in July and newly crowned national 1.30m champion, Faye was determined to maintain their form after lowering the last with the fastest time the day before.

“He goes well here but spooks at the [arena perimeter] moat so I took inside lines to the double and combination and tight to the [penultimate] oxer. He’s only 16hh but if I believe, he believes and he was fighting for the win,” said Faye.

Ronnie Jones topped Saturday’s 1.35m two-phase on Ruth Dowie’s Interstar B, outpacing their 67 rivals by 0.48sec.

The I’m Special De Muze x Ohorn VDL eight-year-old joined Essex-based Ronnie three years ago and is a HOYS grade C finalist.

“He’s like a naughty child, bucks and squeals from sheer pleasure, but he’s a winner and couldn’t try any harder. He’s focused and better behaved in the ring, while at home he’s a know-it-all,” said Ronnie.

Halim’s hat-trick

JAY HALIM claimed a hat-trick, doubling up in the one-star 1.15m classes with Eva Bjorkman’s Billy Cointreau and taking a two-star 1.35m two-phase on Emelie Marsh’s Baltimore x Quite Easy 11-year-old Winning Moon.

“Winning Moon is careful, consistent at 1.35 and 1.40m, and getting the hang of winning. I’m looking to move him up a level,” he said.

The Billy Congo x Feinschnitt 11-year-old Cointreau joined Jay a year ago.

“We decided jumping bigger classes wasn’t for him and he went back to jumping 1m to regain his confidence. It’s horses for courses, he’s now in a happy place and very consistent at this level,” said Jay.

Derek Morton jumped his first show for a month with Zoe Snedker’s KBS High Quality and claimed the final two-star 1.35m in a 16-horse decider with 0.45sec in hand.

“He last jumped in the puissance here [and won alongside two others sharing first place]. He was a little ring rusty on day one and we didn’t qualify for the grand prix, but he feels happy in himself, his owners have gone home happy and he has his spring back,” said Derek.

Laura Renwick outpaced 89 rivals to take Thursday’s two-star 1.30m by 0.36sec with the home-bred eight-year-old Symphony (Parco x Tristan De Quelen), who she describes as “careful, competitive and ready to step up.”

“Symphony’s laid-back and needs to go on a tour and grow up now,” said Laura’s husband John, who has two embryos from this mare by Arko this time as he continues with his successful breeding programme.

Georgia Tame claimed a fast 13-horse two-star 1.30m jump-off by 0.30sec on her home-bred eight-year-old Don VHP Z daughte Donavaya.

“She’s out of an old pony of mine by Argentinus – she was a twin so she was small,” said Georgia. “Donavaya hadn’t done much until jumping a few classes abroad last year. Now she’ll step up and is hopefully my next grand prix horse. She’s sharp like her mother but ultra-careful and likes to be ridden forward like Don VHP.”

A full-throttle ride and drive relay got the heart racing as riders galloped round a short track before jumping into a BMW X5 to be driven by their partner in crime through a course of cones.

A partnership set in the bar the night before was a match made in heaven as Ben Walker and Vicky Mitson of Science Supplements maxed on their collaboration to win by seven seconds.

Ben rode Heidiemorka – a recent winner for Pennie Cornish’s daughter Chloe – and took every risk, with a Pony Club kick to jump the last Superman-style, while Vicky proved to be the female version of Lewis Hamilton.

“I’m just glad Heidi picked up at the last fence,” said Ben.

Tabitha Kyle takes five classes

PONY rider phenomenon Tabitha Kyle, 14, conquered in all five pony classes. Su and Gordon Hall’s Irish-bred 12-year-old Gangnam Style II topped the three 148cm classes and Playboy Van De Zoetewei came to the fore in both 138cms. Tabitha also claimed many places, notably scoring a one-two-three in a 138cm class with Playboy, Mister Proper and Another Barney.

“I don’t feel pressure with Playboy, we know each other so well and he’ll jump anything for me. There was more pressure drawn last of two in the jump-off in the final 148cm. ‘GG’ [Gangnam Style] is a different ride to my other ponies, big-boned and looks like a donkey on a leadrope, but when you sit on him you feel the jump and I know he can do it,” said Tabitha.

• This report will also be available to read in Horse & Hound magazine, on sale Thursday 26 August

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The journey over from the Isle of Man was worth the trip for school leaver Sinead Cox, who took home two victories and a clutch of top placings on her international debut at the Dodson & Horrell Bolesworth International Horse Show (7-11 July).

Sinead, 18, piloted the 16-year-old mare Valtaire (Touchdown x Voltaire) to a brace of 1.05m wins and a second place across the amateur classes.

”It’s quite a good week really for my first senior international,” she said modestly.

“I’ve had her since I was 13, she’s really my speed mare – she likes going fast! She’s a fun horse.”

Sinead has won classes up to 1.20m with the mare, owned by Valerie Cox, and will head to the British Showjumping National Championships (3-10 August) to defend their Members’ Cup title.

Sinead was also competing the “gentlemanly” 14-year-old grey gelding Cando 6 at Bolesworth – and he will also head to the nationals for the 1.30m classes.

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Sinead explained how the Isle of Man is a lovely place for young horses to gain experience and older horses to enjoy the downtime of hacking to the nearby beach. And while the Isle of Man was not as severely affected by Covid as other areas of the UK, the pandemic has meant travel between the island and the mainland was not possible for a long time.

Sinead travelled over in June for a month’s intensive training with Mark McCourt ahead of Bolesworth, after seven months out of the ring.

“It feels quite exciting to be jumping my first international – it’s that feeling of nervousness and excitement at the same time,” said Sinead, who has experience in big arenas from her time in working hunters, with showing wins at HOYS and the Royal International before switching disciplines.

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

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London 2012 Olympic team gold medallist Ben Maher showcased one of the most exciting young horses in his string at the Dodson & Horrell Bolesworth International Horse Show (7-11 July).

The top British rider, who heads to the Tokyo Olympics aboard the phenomenal Explosion W as part of the British Olympic showjumping team this month, was enjoying one of his final shows before he heads into pre-departure quarantine.

This week Ben was riding the exciting seven-year-old Point Break, owned by Charlotte Rossetter and Pamela Wright, in Bolesworth’s CSIYH*.

The Action-Breaker x Balou Du Rouet stallion is undoubtedly one to watch in the future. Bolesworth was the fourth international show for this high flyer, and his first international on British soil. He excelled all week, with a full-house of clear rounds and went home with two eighth place rosettes and a third in Sunday’s top quality seven-year-old final.

“Point Break is a great horse, he’s very exciting,” Ben told commentator Gareth Jenkins in an interview in Bolesworth’s international arena.

“We’ve had him since the end of last year and I thought we’d bring him to Bolesworth to experience the big show venue and all the horses and ponies – he is a stallion, so he has to get used to all of these things. He jumped great today, I was very happy with him.”

Ben was at Bolesworth following a glittering few weeks of top-flight success with his other rides. He won the CSI5* Global Champions Tour Paris grand prix on Ginger-Blue at the end of June, followed by victory in the Royal Windsor grand prix on Explosion W.

“I don’t have so many horses right now, but the ones that I do have, I’m very spoiled with,” said Ben,

“Ginger-Blue is a horse that we’ve had since she was seven years old. A little bit like with Point Break today, we went very slowly behind the scenes.

“She has been improving and doing very well, but Paris was a little bit unexpected. It was a great weekend.”

Ben praised Bolesworth director Nina Barbour for the “incredible job”, adding the show is improving all the time.

“We don’t get many opportunities to ride in England anymore, so these shows are very important and to have a home crowd is always great,” he said.

All eyes on Tokyo

The Olympic showjumping horses go into quarantine on Friday (16 July), ahead of travelling to Liège in Belgium for their flight to Japan on 26 July.

“The next two weeks will be all about preparation and Explosion and coming together as a team to get ready to travel,” he said.

“It’s hard when there’s expectations. There were probably not many expectations in London and the team managed to come through.”

He added that individually, all those on the squad have had big successes recently.

“I think it’s just about coming together, doing what we normally do every weekend and trying to get it right on the right weekend. It is a different format this time, so the individual [medals are decided ] first, and then the team. I think we have a good chance but I’m not going to put odds on that!”

Reflecting on the character of his Tokyo Olympic ride, Ben added: “Explosion is a lot bigger than everyone thinks he is. He is very friendly – he’s like a pet, you could put your dogs, your kids, everything with him, and he just wants to eat treats. He is very spoiled.

“But then when you get him ready and he has to go to work, he becomes very sharp and sensitive, which I think is what makes him good.

“I can’t get on without a stepladder and feeding him. Probably the hardest part is to get on him. Once I’m on he’s very spatially aware and he won’t let anybody hand me anything, I can’t take my jacket [on or] off, so if it’s raining. I’m getting wet! But that’s what makes him special. Honestly, I’m very fortunate to have had many great horses in my career, but he really is something else.”

.

Enjoy more from Bolesworth:

‘The hype around it is three-fold’: Holly Smith on Tokyo selection and why the Olympics is a different entity *H&H Plus*

‘It should be tough to win a grand prix’: Irish rider clinches grand prix glory in gripping Bolesworth show-down *H&H Plus*

‘It was put your foot down, or no dinner!’ – 11 of the best quotes from a brilliant Bolesworth

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Brilliant competition in the spectacular Bolesworth setting was always going to be a recipe for cracking comments from riders. H&H takes a look at some of the best horse quotes from across the week…

• “I can’t speak for all the other riders, but I know myself that there could be a million people here or there could be nobody here when I’m doing my round. I’m completely focused on myself and my horse. But the minute you hit the ground over the final fence, it’s like a rush of noise – it’s incredible” – Bolesworth grand prix winner David Simpson, on the return of crowds
• “He knows that I’m his mum and he is really well behaved for me, but he’s really naughty for everyone else” – Faye Adams, on her double 2021 CSI3* Bolesworth winner Demograaf
• “I think maybe I just had the pressure on – it was put your foot down, or no dinner!” – Ed Jackson, on what gave him the will to win in Thursday’s ride and drive
• “She does love an atmosphere. As much as she doesn’t like people, she does like them to watch her – ‘don’t touch me, but watch me’” – Joss Williams, on his double CSIYH*-winning ride, Fourfields Darc Maxim
• “I have a plan, I have ideas and the best way is to sleep on it and build tomorrow!” course designer Louis Koninckx, on preparing to build the CSI3* grand prix
• “I’ll just keep doing what I do, train my horse to the best of my ability, put all the effort into my own preparation and just let all that effort take care of the performance” – Holly Smith, on handling Olympic selection and looking ahead to Tokyo
• “You’ve got no choice – you’re going!” – Nicole Lockhead Anderson, on finding horses’ extra gears with the Readyfield Bloodhounds
• “At HOYS I’d be in the line up, waiting to do my show, and you overthink everything. Whereas here, you go in the ring, you get into a good canter and you can’t mess up – you’ve got to jump the jump that’s in front of you, and you actually forget everything that’s around you” – Michaela Wood, on switching codes
• “People overlooked him and didn’t think he was good enough because he doesn’t actually go airborne and flash. He just does what he needs to do” – Adam Botham on Ebanking, the seven-year-old stallion eyeing the World Breeding Championships
• “Now she’s had it removed, she must feel a lot better!”– Georgia Tame, on Z7 Caretina’s comeback after having a 12kg tumour removed
• “It’s always good to win, whether it’s a British novice or a puissance!” – Derek Morton, on his Bolesworth puissance win, which he shared with Guy Williams (Mr Blue Sky UK) and Elliot Smith (Flamboyant III)

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

This time last year, Fourfields Darc Maxim was gearing up for her first novice eventing run of the season.

Fast forward 12 months, and Rachael Heald’s seven-year-old mare is excelling in a new discipline, with two wins across the CSIYH* classes at the Dodson & Horrell Bolesworth International Horse Show with rider Joss Williams.

“She did a lot of eventing and it gives you that different ride. I saw a long one across the middle of the arena and I knew she was going to stay straight and keep coming,” said Joss, after taking Sunday’s Al Shira’aa 1.30m jump-off class.

It was a real tricky course and there were questions everywhere. It was a class field and she was probably the underdog really, considering she’s not been produced through the showjumping age classes and she’s never been abroad, while a lot of these will have been to show after show.

“She’s a bit of a mare – she’s very opinionated. But she loves the job and she loves jumping. You wouldn’t know how good she is, she’d never let you know.

“She does love an atmosphere, as much as she doesn’t like people, she does like them to watch her – ‘don’t touch me, but watch me’.”

The VDL Douglas x Maximum Clearance mare twice competed at the British Eventing Young Horse Championships at Osberton, competing there as a four-year-old under Lauren Blades and as a six-year-old with India Nichols.

“She’s going be something special – very special,” said Joss, adding that eventing experience has given the mare the edge in the showjumping arena.

She’s seen all the big marquees, she’s seen the people, the water around the edge of the arena [didn’t bother her] as she’s had a bit of life experience, which I think stands them in real good stead.

“Eventing teaches them where their legs are. It gives them a proper education and it does them the world of good.”

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What are the odds?! Seven of the best quirky, cool and stand-out facts and stories from Bolesworth so far

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A total of 50 combinations are entered in the CSI3* grand prix at the Dodson & Horrell Bolesworth International Horse Show (7-11 July).

The 1.50m feature class, built by Dutch course designer Louis Konickx, has a total prize fund of £50,000 and features 13 questions made up of 16 jumping efforts over a 290m course, with time set at 375 m/min. It features a triple bar, one double (12AB), one treble (7ABC), two water trays (three and nine).

The jump-off course is fences: one, two, nine, 12AB, 13, 15 (a new fence for the jump-off) and five.

Take a virtual walk around the grand prix course

Fence one

Fence two

Fence three

Fence four

Fence five

Fence six

Fence seven (ABC)

Fence eight

Fence nine

Fence 10

Fence 11

Fence 12 (AB)

Fence 13

Jump-off only: Fence 15

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‘The best way is to sleep on it’: course designer Louis Konickx on building in Bolesworth’s iconic arena and planning the grand prix *H&H Plus*

How to watch Bolesworth International Horse Show live from anywhere in the world

What are the odds?! Seven of the best quirky, cool and stand-out facts and stories from Bolesworth so far

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A world class international field will go head to head in Bolesworth’s amphitheatre of a main arena to target victory in the Dodson & Horrell CSI3* grand prix.

John Whitaker and Holly Smith are among the major names on the 50-strong start list for the feature class, which has a total prize pot of £50,000. The 1.50m course is designed by Dutchman Louis Konickx.

Britain’s Luke Barham will kick off the jumping at 2.30pm aboard the nine-year-old mare Helrite, followed by US-based young British showjumper Emily Ward (Millioninmind).

Guy Williams, joint-winner of Saturday night’s puissance with the prolific Mr Blue Sky UK, brings forwards his 2019 Hickstead Derby winner Rouge De Ravel, with whom he is drawn sixth (2.40pm).

Anthony Condon, who was the first irish winner of the Bolesworth grand prix in 2017 aboard Balzac, will be targeting the 2021 title with the 12-year-old grey mare Zira VH Kapelhof Z. The pair are drawn 11th to go and will enter the arena at 2.50pm.

Tokyo-bound Holly Smith and the on-song Fruselli, who have won three international classes together in the last two weeks with two Royal Windsor victories and a Bolesworth grand prix qualifier win, will jump at 3.54pm.

John Whitaker (pictured, top) brings forwards the 12-year-old gelding Sharid at 4pm. Son Robert Whitaker and the wonderful veteran Catwalk IV will jump at 2.56pm.

Sweden’s Angelie von Essen rides the ‘princess’ Cochella, a three-star winner here earlier in the week, at 3.30pm. Last night’s joint puissance winner Elliott Smith and Flamboyant III will jump at 3.08pm. Georgia Tame, who had a three-star win on Saturday with Z7 Caretina, will ride Z7 Ascot, with whom she was third in Friday’s 1.50m grand prix qualifier.

Article continues below…

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Other combinations to keep an eye out for are William Whitaker and Galtur, a new ride for him last year, who have had some exciting results on the international circuit. These include 10th at Royal Windsor CSI5* grand prix and second at Keysoe CSI2* grand prix in the last three weeks. They jump their first round at 3.40pm.

Harriet Biddick and her 2017 Hickstead Queen Elizabeth Cup winner Galway Bay Jed will jump shortly after, entering the ring at 3.48pm.

Laura Renwick, who has had wins across Bolesworth’s young horse classes this week, will be seeking to emulate that success in the grand prix. She rides the nine-year-old Haitske at 4.08pm.

Rising stars to have on your radar in this class include Amy Inglis with her homebred mare Wishes (3.46pm), who were listed as a reserve on the British nominated entries list for Tokyo.

Jack Whitaker is another to watch. He recently scored his first five-star win aboard Scenletha and today rides the 12-year-old stallion Elucar V.E. at 3.06pm.

Likewise, Millie Allen has had a strong week with the 13-year-old stallion, Daniel, and will start at 3.36pm. Ireland’s Daniel Coyle, one of the highest-ranked riders at the show this week, will be one to watch with Oak Grove’s Carlyle at 3.34pm.

The CSI3* grand prix starts at 2.30pm today (Sunday, 11 July) and will be live streamed.

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

School leaver Glain Watkin Jones’ Dodson & Horrell Bolesworth International Horse Show win was an emotional milestone moment for the teenager.

North Wales-based Glain, 18, who was born the same year as her “amazing” campaigner Waldemar (Lbh Calvados x Lux), celebrated her first international win on this her CSI* debut.

The pair headed a competitive 1.35m jump-off class and were the quickest out of just two double clears out of 46 starters, to cheers from her strong support team made up of her mum, trainer Tom Lloyd and two best friends.

“I was first to go in the jump off so I had to go and go as quickly as I could to try and win,” said Glain, who stopped the clock in a time of 41.07 seconds.

“I went over the course loads of times, just to make sure I could perfect it as much as I could and I guess it went my way today.

“It was quite a challenging course, I had lots to remember. After the first fence, I got into a big gear, a big rhythm and everything came quite easily then because I was in a good canter. He helped me out over a few fences – he’s just amazing.”

She added that the gelding, who is owned by Hans Christian Jacobsen, makes up time with his long stride.

“I’ve had him a few years now and these last three months he has really been jumping well,” she said, adding they have really “clicked” recently.

“We’ve been training a lot and I think the key with him is to think forward, get a good canter and into a good rhythm then he just does the best he can to help me,” she said.

“He’s so kind, I love him. He’s the sweetest horse we have. To think that he goes from being so nice and gentle and stable to winning a big class is just amazing, I couldn’t get a better horse.”

Georgia Taylor-Jones and Quote Z took second place, crossing the line in 41.80 seconds. Louise Whitaker and Carlina d’Argouges were the fastest of the four-faulters in the jump-off third, posting a speedy time of 40 seconds.

More from Bolesworth…

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What are the odds?! Seven of the best quirky, cool and stand-out facts and stories from Bolesworth so far

Exceptional grey completes full set of major British puissance wins as trio clinch joint victory over Bolesworth wall *H&H Plus*

Top jumping mare claims first international win since surgery to remove 12kg ovarian tumour *H&H Plus*

Spotted at Bolesworth: famous fences, a flower wall and G&Ts with a view – take a peek behind the scenes

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

1. A full house

Guy Williams and Mr Blue Sky UK added the final piece of the British puissance jigsaw to their collection. The pair shared the win with Elliott Smith on the aptly named Flamboyant, who has now won over the red wall at Bolesworth three times, and Derek Morton on KBS High Quality, who celebrated their second puissance win together at this venue

• Read how the high-class puissance played out and why Mr Blue Sky UK is better the bigger the wall is built

2. Neck-and-neck

Dead heats are not unheard of in showjumping, but it’s not something that happens everyday. However like buses, they seem to come along at once at Bolesworth with four on day two.

Two first place rosettes were needed for Levi Critchlow (Valarico) and Olivia Sponer (Adonis), who shared the spoils in Thursday’s Voltaire Design CSI* 1.25m two-phase class.

Elizabeth Cunningham (Fabienne C) and Victoria Kuligowski (Ferrari) could not be split in the Hunter Woodshavings 1.05m amateur two-phase class, to tie for fourth place in the class, won by Madieson Blakesley and Daneik.

Lightening struck again later that day, with Annabel Shields (Wet Wet Wet) and Joe Whitaker (Hulahupe JR) couldn’t be split for fourth place in the CSI3* grand prix qualifier, which was won by Mark Edwards and his homebred, Flying Tinker II.

If that wasn’t enough, Ronnie Jones (Interstar B) and James Fisher (Ivanta) tied for seventh in the CSI3* 1.35m two-phase class.

• Read how Holly Smith and the on-form Fruselli continued their winning streak with victory in this class

3. Fun facts

While we are on the topic of number crunching and nerdy facts, all seven of the horses that jumped double clear in Friday night’s CSI3* grand prix qualifier were mares or stallions. ‘Princess’ Cochella, ridden by Sweden’s Angelie von Essen topped the class, with four other mares and two stallions completing the full line-up of horses to jump double clear.

• Find out how Angelie and Cochella’s bold round clinched first place

4. A one-two-three

Tabitha Kyle made a fierce start to her Bolesworth campaign in the international pony classes, with a one-two-three in Friday’s Pony of the Year Show-sponsored 1.25m two-phase contest. Gangnam Style II took home the first place rosette, with stablemates Atomic Du Bary and Orchid’s Vienna in second and third.

5. In the genes

The dynasty of Mark Edwards’ great Tinkers Tale Friday CSIYH* Al Shira’aa six-year-old 1.25m two-phase winner, Royale Tale.

“She’s by my top horse, Montreauxs Tale. A friend bred her and then she got pregnant, so we managed to buy her back as a four-year-old,” said Mark, adding the mare won as a five-year-old at the young horse championships here last year.

“She’s very scopey, like Montreauxs Tale, and actually a little bit sharper, a little bit more blood than Montreuxs, which is a good thing really, but there’s definitely a similar temperament. You can tell they’re related.”

6. Remarkable recovery

Top mare Z7 Caretina scored her first international win since recovering from major surgery to remove a 12kg tumour

• Find out more about her remarkable story

7. Remember the name

Holly Smith’s 19-year-old stable jockey Nicole Lockhead Anderson is enjoying a winning week with a double across the young horse classes.

• Read more about the teenager, how Holly’s mentorship is invaluable and the varied activities horses enjoy from day-to-day at the Smith yard

8. Switching codes

Michaela Wood, who enjoyed countless wins at HOYS in the show ring, is loving the switch from showing to jumping

• Find out why she made the switch and how she has found the two disciplines compare

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Guy Williams and his prolific winner Mr Blue Sky UK completed their full house of major British puissance titles with joint victory over the red wall at the Dodson & Horrell Bolesworth International Horse Show (10 July).

Three combinations cleared the 2.16m wall in the fifth round of the puissance, sponsored by Equitop GLME, to share the spoils.

Elliott Smith and the aptly named Flamboyant III, puissance winners at Bolesworth in 2019 and 2020, and Derek Morton with KBS High Quality, who scored a puissance win during the 2020 young horse championships at Bolesworth, also added their names to the 2021 Bolesworth puissance roll of honour.

“He jumped it very easily. He’s actually better the last round when you can just let him run off a bit. If you let him run off too early, then he gets too strong. The last round is almost the easiest for him, to be honest,” said Guy, who won the Windsor puissance just last week with the exceptional gelding.

The eye-catching grey (Chacco-Blue x Cento), owned by Caroline Phillips, is arguably the greatest puissance horse of this generation and Guy added he is “definitely” among the best he has ever had.

“I’ve had a few good ones– Richi Rich III, Una II – and he jumps it very easily, every time,” he said. “It was lovely to win that in front of everybody.”

Guy and Mr Blue Sky UK have won them all – Olympia, Horse of the Year Show, Liverpool, Windsor, plus puissance crowns abroad. The Bolesworth crown was the missing piece of the brick jigsaw for the pair, and it seemed fitting that this fan favourite should take the title in front of the first crowd at the Cheshire venue for three years.

Such was the quality of the seven-strong field that a full-house made it through to the third round, although Irish challenger Jack Ryan (KBS Major Player) chose to call it a day after clearing the 1.85m wall in round two.

Jay Halim (Gentleman Vd Riethandel) and Jack Whitaker (Flinstering), who were both on horses jumping their first pussiance class, were unlucky to nudge out the top bricks with a hind-leg. William Whitaker and last-minute catch-ride Top Dollar VI, owned by Laura Renwick, had a miscommunication and took a tumble. Both were quickly up and were not injured.

This left three to go forward to the fourth round. A quick rendition of Three Lions by the crowd, as a nod to Sunday’s Euros 2020 final, while the wall was built to an imposing 2.08m, heightened the atmosphere.

Flawless jumps from all three horses, and up went the wall again for the fifth and final round (2.16m). Three more clears meant the win was shared by the trio.

“He loves the venue,” said Elliott, of his now three-time Bolesworth puissance winner. “We’ve had him since he was three and we always knew he could jump big as he jumped out of the field! He’s just a big jumper.

“He’s jumped at Olympia, HOYS and we’ve just been a bit unlucky, but we’ve managed to be more lucky here. He loved the crowd and he loves the attention.”

Derek was equally delighted to win. The 10-year-old OBOS Quality gelding maintained his 100% puissance strike-rate over the Bolesworth wall, having also won on his last attempt in 2020.

“It’s always good to win, whether it’s a British novice or a puissance!” added Derek.

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

William Whitaker has caught the ride on Laura Renwick’s Top Dollar VI to jump the big red wall in the Dodson & Horrell Bolesworth International Horse Show puissance tonight (10 July).

Seven combinations feature on the start list for the Equitop GLME puissance class, which starts at 7.45pm

The Whitaker-Top Dollar VI partnership is an exciting addition to the class as this is the second time the chestnut stallion has been a catch ride in a puissance class.

In 2018, Laura asked Matthew Sampson if he would ride the horse in the puissance at the TheraPlate UK Liverpool International Horse Show, less than an hour before the class started.

It turned out to be a recipe for success, as Matthew shared the title with Ireland’s Mikey Pender (Hearton Du Bois Halleux).

“I just tried to ride forward and give him a little bit of room as he is such a big horse and keep him confident,” Matthew explained at the time.

“It was easier as time went on as I figured out how to ride him and trusted him a bit more.”

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Joining William on tonight’s start list is Guy Williams and his puissance star, Mr Blue Sky UK, who has six wins over red walls to his name.

Bolesworth’s 2019 puissance winner, Elliott Smith and Flamboyant III, who shared the prize with Alfie Bradstock and H. D’Or during the young horse championships, and who also took a 2020 puissance win at Bolesworth during the relocated 2020 British Showjumping National Championships will be looking to collect another crown. Derek Morton (KBS High Quality), a puissance winner here at the 2020 young horse championships, and Ireland’s Jack Ryan (KBS Major Player) will both be seeking to add the 2021 Bolesworth puissance title to their name.

Jack Whitaker brings forward his new ride, Flinstering, for the horse’s first international puissance. Jay Halim’s ride, Gentleman VD Riethandel, will also be making his puissance debut at Bolesworth.

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

This is the first year Dutch course designer Louis Konickx has built at the Dodson & Horrell Bolesworth International Horse Show (7-11 July).

“When you are a course designer in a new arena, new venue, you have to find the nice lines – the lines that can help you to make nice challenges and distances and so on,” he told H&H on Saturday (10 July).

“You find some – then you’re fighting against your own plans – you find a compromise.

“When I get the dimensions of arenas, I plan at home – searching for possibilities – then when I get here, I look and see where the sun is, where the audience and visitors are. This arena is special as it is a little bit sloping, which [affects] how it rides.”

Louis added how important it is to be aware of the level of the class you are building for – with Bolesworth providing the challenge of building for ponies, amateurs, young horses and the three-star competitors.

He cited his highlights so far as Friday’s 1.50m jump-off, won by Angelie von Essen, as well as Saturday morning’s 1.45m grand prix qualifier, won by Georgia Tame (Z7 Caretina).

Looking ahead to Sunday’s (11 July) grand prix, he added: “I have a plan, I have ideas and the best way is to sleep on it and build tomorrow!”

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

With around 800 horses competing at 2021 Dodson & Horrell Bolesworth International Horse Show, there is no shortage of action to watch. World-class riders, including Tokyo-bound British showjumpers Holly Smith and Ben Maher, are competing across the international classes with five days of top sport (7-11 July).

H&H is covering all the action, with reports across the weekend on the Horse & Hound website and in the 15 July issue of the magazine.

But there are also the important, non-sporting questions visitors need to know – which public bar has the best view? Where is the best spot for a selfie? And what is that fence? We take a look behind the scenes to find the answers…

The D&H flower wall looks a perfect place to snap a selfie – and is handily next to the ice-cream van and…

…the rooftop bar! What a place to enjoy a drink and watch the action

How’s this for a room with a view? We’re jealous of whoever gets to sit and watch the action from this heavenly looking table

A future star? Yearling Goldskies Angelo walks into the International Arena in the evening sun, ahead of Friday’s A-List Auction

The Bolesworth bridge

With this year’s Olympics around the corner, it was wonderful to see some of the London 2021 fences on course in the International Arena, including the red postboxes and fittingly, the Abbey Road oxer. A few others also caught our eye – how is this for a unique set of wings on the Halsall Electrical fence in the Castle Arena?

Article continues below…

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New title sponsor for Bolesworth, plus the latest partnership news

Find out more about Bolesworth’s new title sponsor, as well as charity partnership news from the Cheltenham Festival, KBIS and

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A seven-year-old mare, who has never rolled a pole in international competition, was the sparkling headline at the Science Supplements Bolesworth Elite A-List Auction (9 July).

One Diamond, a 16.1hh mare, by Diarado, out of Balido I mare Rubinija, was knocked down for £190,000 following a fierce bidding war.

The mare has been competing under Millie Allen and Angelie von Essen on the national and international circuit. Her FEI record shows she did not touch a pole on any of her five starts in international young horse classes last year, partnered by Millie.

Demand for the mare was high, with the bidding jumping from £8,000 to £50,000 in one jump. The price rattled rapidly up to £100,000, with the auctioneer barely drawing breath.

The race to take this “diamond” home briefly steadied around £170,000, inching up gradually with the hammer finally falling on the winning bid of £190,000.

The next highest-priced sale of the night was lot nine, the six-year-old grey gelding Millfield Chrisis (Christian 25 x Lux Z), who sold for £105,000.

Another six-year-old grey gelding also hit six-figures, with lot six, Cerano Van De Dijkhoeve Z (Clarimo x Polydor) reaching £100,000.

This was the first time Bolesworth has offered ridden horses at its auctions.

“We are thrilled that the Science Supplements A-List Auction delivered as promised,” said Bolesworth managing director, Nina Barbour.

“The collective expertise of the selection team was testament to the success of the auction. With an unprecedented number of bids coming from both in the room and online, the catalogue offered breeders and producers in the UK the opportunity to showcase their horses to a truly global audience.

“This marks an important moment in the Science Supplements Bolesworth Elite Auctions’ history, creating a foundation for future success with ridden horse auctions. We would like to congratulate the new owners and thank everyone that attended, it will certainly be a night to remember.”

Lord Louis 25 (lot 12) headed the yearling side of the auction, with the Christian 25 x Emerald Van’t Ruytershof chestnut colt selling for £35,000.

The next sale in the Science Supplements Bolesworth Elite Auction calendar is the Elite yearlings (16-19 July). View the catalogue and register to bid

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A top jumping mare scored her first international win since an operation to remove a huge tumour.

Z7 Caretina and Georgia Tame sped to victory over a challenging track in Saturday’s Horseware Ireland CSI3* 1.40m jump-off class at the Dodson & Horrell Bolesworth International Horse Show (7-11 July).

Just four of the 73 starters kept a clean sheet in the first round of course designer Louis Konickx’s influential track to go forward to the jump-off.

“It was a really difficult course,” said Georgia. “I thought the course builder did a really good job as every line was a distance and the time was really tight. So in the places where you did have time to move on, you then had to really wait for the distance and think about the line as well.

“She’s great. She always tries her best. Last year during lockdown we found a 12kg tumour on her ovary. Bless her, she had been jumping with that [before we found it] and now she’s had it removed, she must feel a lot better!”

Georgia explained there were no signs to show anything was amiss with the mare, who had been jumping – and winning – across the international circuit up until the tumour was found.

“Because the horses weren’t doing anything [owing to lockdown], we sent her off to have embryos done as she’s so lovely and they found it when they did that,” she said.

She added the mare has made a “perfect” recovery and the pair have enjoyed top placings in international classes across the world since her return. Bolesworth marked Z7 Caretina’s first international victory since the surgery.

“I love riding her as she’s so much fun, you can always really give it a go and she’ll always try for you,” she said.

Georgia and the 10-year-old mare (Coltaire Z x Caretino) were drawn first to go in the jump-off and kept a forward rhythm across the twisting course, crossing the finish line in 33.09 seconds.

Next into the ring were Ronnie Jones and Interstar B, who were up on Georgia’s time, but the gamble to the last didn’t quite pay off and their hopes of victory tumbled with the front rail of the final oxer.

Ireland’s Anthony Condon and SFS Aristio, a stallion son of Arko III, produced a smooth clear to stop the clock in 34.17 seconds – just over a second behind Georgia – and claim the runner-up spot. Third went to Ronnie and Interstar B, with William Whitaker and Miss Aragona PS fourth.

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Adam Botham and the ‘fantastic’ young stallion Ebanking topped one of the Dodson & Horrell Bolesworth International Horse Show’s hottest classes with their classy win in the Al Shira’aa CSIYH* seven-year-old 1.30m (9 July).

A high-quality field came forward to tackle Louis Konickx’s imposing track in Bolesworth’s atmospheric international arena. It is testament to the standard of the young horses that just under 60% of the 46 starter jumped clear in this single-phase speed class.

Ebanking (Etoulon x VDL Sheraton), owned by Barbara Hester, combines his competition career with stud duties, and showed his impeccable manners by waiting patiently for the prize giving in the buzzy atmosphere of Bolesworth’s collecting ring.

Adam said the stallion gets his brain from Indoctro breeding on his damside (VDL Sheraton’s sire).

“He has a fantastic brain. He always has his game face on,” he said. “He has an enormous stride and that’s how he won today. He came out of the ring, not sweating, not blowing. He doesn’t know he’s had to jump off round, because he just takes one less stride everywhere without knowing – he’s fantastic.”

Ebanking has foals on the floor this year and more progeny due in 2022.

“He still knows his job – he’s a boy in the collecting ring, he’s a boy in the stable, then the minute he walks into the ring, it’s game face on.”

He added: “I walked the course and my plan was for every distance – straight away from fences one to two – was to do one less stride in every single distance, and he and he executed that like he always does.”

Barbara acquired the stallion just over a year ago.

“We thought he was quite special, but he’s proved even more special than we thought he was at the beginning, which is incredibly exciting,” she said.

“His technique is just flawless. He would be a perfect example of how a horse should jump, with his nose being the lowest point and his knees up. He just bascules every single fence.”

Adam added it was the horse’s consistency and his brain that appealed to them.

“In this modern sport, they have to be unbelievably careful and they have to be rideable, and he had a great brain,” he said.

“He was always for sale before we bought him, but I think people overlooked him because he’s always been very easy – he jumps the height of the jump, so he never really shows you what he has.

“I knew him, because we bought him off some friends of mine [the Saywells]. I knew that he’d gone to Spain and through the six weeks he was there, he jumped three classes a weekend and he didn’t have one fault. As a five-year-old, he did the same thing. But people overlooked him and didn’t think he was good enough because he doesn’t actually go airborne and flash. He just does what he needs to do.”

Adam said the plan for what to aim for keeps changing as the horse “keeps improving”.

“We are very excited about him,” he said.

The pair were at Bolesworth fresh from their win in the seven-year-old final at Hickstead (23-27 June). In the short term, a win in Saturday’s seven-year-old class at Bolesworth is in their sights, with longer-term goals of the Foxhunter final and World Breeding Championships.

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Sweden’s Angelie von Essen and the “amazing” Cochella gave the crowd at the Dodson & Horrell International Horse Show (7-11 July) a spectacular end to the day’s sport with a masterclass win in the CSI3* 1.50m jump-off class.

Cochella is beautiful. There’s something about greys that means they have that little bit of extra magic, and she looks as if she could have stepped off the pages of a fairytale.

The way the pair tackled the final dogleg line from the double to the last fence, an imposing oxer at the far side of the arena, you could almost have sworn that Cochella sprouted wings. Runners-up Daniel Coyle and Legacy gave a strong chase, but a touch of the rein to rebalance the mare cost the Irishman a fraction of a second that he did not have.

“I wasn’t very happy with the first round. She jumped amazing, but it wasn’t as smooth as I would have hoped,” Angelie told H&H.

“The second round, she was a superstar. I didn’t count, but it felt like I took a stride out [to the last] – she’s like superman!

“She’s a princess – everything about her is just amazing.”

Angelie added the win was made even more special by the fact her owner, Martin Dawes, who is also a long-term owner for her partner James Davenport, was there to see his 16-year-old mare (Cartani 4 x Lord) win.

“He hasn’t seen her in the ring for about three years, so that was really nice,” she said, adding Cochella will next jump in Sunday’s grand prix.

A total of 13 combinations from the 58-strong start list ended their first round on a clean sheet to make it through to the jump-off.

Millie Allen and Daniel – another grey from the Davenport stable – threw down the target to beat, with a fast clear over Louis Konickx’s jump-off course in a time of 38.28 seconds.

The course made full use of Bolesworth’s huge international arena, with long bending dog-legs, daring riders to push on, and twisting roll-backs, testing their accuracy and control.

“She has a massive stride and she’s so careful, so I was never worried about turning, like up to the red vertical, as you know that she is going to jump,” added Angelie, who stopped the clock in 37.22 seconds.

“She’s so quick, without ever getting stressed and she never loses her jump. She’s amazing.”

Mares and stallions made up all the horses that finished on zero jumping scores, with five mares and two stallions in the top seven.

Third place went to Georgia Tame and the 10-year-old Irish sport horse stallion Z7 Ascot and early leader Millie Allen in fourth. Alex Thomson (Cathalina S) and Amy Inglis (Wishes) tied in a dead-heat for fifth, with Jackson Reed Stephenson and Cool Cash rounding off the double clears in seventh.

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Brave turns and a tactical warm-up were the ingredients for Faye Adams and Demograaf’s second win in as many days at the Dodson & Horrell Bolesworth International Horse Show (7 – 11 July).

“He jumps so well here. I think the atmosphere here is great, and he rises to that,” said Faye, who won the CSI3* Horseware Ireland 1.40m speed class by a margin of close to two seconds ahead of runners-up Joe Whitaker and Icaterina. Third went to Jude Burgess and Comeback De Fremis.

“My warm up with him is actually quite tactical. He has a slight dust allergy, so it takes a while for him to get his breath back,” she said.

“I always get on him early, I jump when I have eight [to go before me] – two uprights then two or three oxers. Then I walk him when I’ve got about five [riders to go]. When we have two to go in, we just have a big oxer and I’ll turn him back and ride him at a big upright – and he knows it’s time. After the last oxer he usually lands, has a buck, and then he’s ready to perform.”

She added: “Wherever he goes, he performs. He’s just amazing – he just flies round those fences and I was thinking ‘I need to slow down – this really fast! I need to get him back on his hocks a bit’. But he just kept being so careful and he kept the jump – he felt powerful and he was handling it so well.

“It was nerve wracking watching afterwards. I kept thinking, ‘this is fast, this is fast’ [as I watched the others] – and then their time wouldn’t be that close to his.”

Faye added an extra stride between the first two fences and caught up on the clock by taking strides out on the line from the combination to the water tray and to the final fence.

“My plan was to keep really tight and keep moving forward,” she said. “I was quite fortunate that every time I turned back, I just saw a real forward stride and he excelled.

“He’s only 16hh – he’s only small, but he has a massive stride, I can always take one out, which is a great trait to have in a horse.”

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Switching codes has proved a successful decision for former top showing rider and producer Michaela Wood.

The North Yorkshire-based rider, who runs Dallamires Stables with her partner George Whitaker, headed Friday’s Owl Homes 1.25m amateur class at the Dodson & Horrell Bolesworth International Horse Show with the Billy Congo son Lingala (“Mikey”).

“If I throw him in at the deep end, take the strides out and do the tight turns, he loves it,” she said.

“The more pressure you put on him, the bigger the atmosphere, the better he is – he builds up with the atmosphere. He’s very good at going fast and because he’s so small, he can turn on a sixpence.”

The fire in the 15.3hh 10-year-old stallion’s round matched the fire of his chestnut coat, and the pair stopped the clock 0.77 seconds ahead of second placed Marnie Darcy Green and Ice Cold Z.

“He’s built like a bull, but he is tiny and he has the biggest stride. I took out all the strides in there and it was easy for him – I was holding him,” she explained.

“I don’t like to do too much with him. I like to pick and choose our shows, so during [lockdowns] he had a nice break and did loads of hacking, kept him chilled, then built him back up ready for the shows again.”

She added it is wonderful to see crowds back at the show.

“I think there’s a lot of things that Covid has taught everyone, like not taking things for granted. It’s just so nice to be back at Bolesworth, it’s one of our favourite shows. My family love it and Nina and the team couldn’t do enough for everyone,” she said.

Michaela and George have 55 horses in, ranging from youngsters up to grand prix showjumpers – so lockdown was anything but quiet.

“My dad just loves buying the young ones – he bought like eight foals last year. It’s his birthday today, so he’s probably going buy himself a birthday present in the auction!” she said, adding that she also started selling to the US hunter-jumper market during lockdown.

“We would rather be busy than quiet, we’ve got some really really good horses coming through. Not sure how many I’ll get to pick out, because George will probably want to steal them all,” she laughed. “This chestnut one he is never allowed to steal. He is my little pride and joy.”

‘I used to get more nervous showing’

Michaela explained what inspired her to switch from showing

“I had just won HOYS [Horse of the Year Show] for the fourth time with my coloured Login Lucky Lad. I had been with George for a year and a half and he was working aboard, so it was so difficult trying to do both,” she said.

“I thought, ‘right I’ve won HOYS 10 times now in showing, I’ve won everything I can in showing, I want to do something different’.

“[Mikey] actually came from one of George’s best friends, Reece Oliver, who bred him. We went to try him and George said ‘I don’t think he will suit’, but as soon as I sat on him, I knew he suited me down the ground.”

She added: “It’s so strange because I used to get more nervous showing, I think because you can hear a pin drop in the show ring – there’s so much pressure. Whereas when you’re jumping, you forget what’s around you.

“I remember at HOYS I’d be in the line up, waiting to do my show, and you overthink everything. Whereas here, you go in the ring, you get into a good canter and you can’t mess up because you’ve got to jump the jump that’s in front of you, and you actually forget everything that’s around you.

“Showing was so good because it’s taught me so much. It’s taught me a lot on the flat and riding different sorts of horses and I loved it, but now this is completely different. I’ve got the best training from George and all his family. It’s unbelievable. I wouldn’t change it for the world.”

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now