Latest from Horse & Hound in Royal-welsh

One-eyed former racehorse goes from strength to strength in his third career

Bethan Simons — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 16:06:28 +0000

One-eyed former racehorse An Cathoir continues to break ground for his owner-rider Victoria Bertorelli, most recently topping the lightweight hunter division at the Royal Welsh and going on to stand reserve hunter champion.

“He’s won the retrained racehorse class twice before,” said Victoria. “We entered the hunters at the last minute as I’ve been nagged for years to give it a whirl.”

Remarkably, this is the thoroughbred 17-year-old’s third career.

“Angus” began working life on the track, but retired after just six runs, and found a second career as a huntsman’s horse.

Victoria bought him in 2020, and began the process of transforming the Turtle Island gelding into the show horse he is today.

It’s not been an easy journey.

“We only managed a total of two outings before he was diagnosed with uveitis, and two months later we made the sad decision to remove his eye,” said Victoria. “In hindsight it was the best decision we ever made.”

Angus “bounced back” only to incur further injury and need a long stint of rehab.

Since these initial setbacks, the pair have gone from strength to strength.

Last term, they won the Retraining of Racehorses amateur series championship at Hickstead, and have already booked their 2027 return pass. They are also set to compete for the first time at Horse of the Year Show in October having qualified at the Royal Three Counties.

“It’s my first ever ticket,” said Victoria, who is currently fitting Angus’ production in around setting up her new bespoke clothing line, ViBe Equestrian. “We’ve been trying for three years and had never been out of the line-up in all our previous attempts.

“But I 100% never thought it would happen. We’ve been pulled top too many times to mention and I always assumed we were dropped due to his eye, so when we were finally brought up to win I ignored the stewards the first time they called me as I didn’t believe they were pointing at me.”

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‘He always gives a good show’: Section D colt is crowned supreme champion at the 2025 Royal Welsh Winter Fair

Bethan Simons — Fri, 28 Nov 2025 13:35:30 +0000

Homebreds reigned and a Section D colt was crowned supreme champion at the 2025 Royal Welsh Winter Fair (24-25 November), where there were excellent numbers, and plenty of festive cheer despite the bitterly cold temperatures.

It was Llanmorlais Buster, a Welsh section D yearling, who ran through his card to finish supreme champion at the 2025 Royal Welsh Winter Fair. Owned by breeder Mark Swistun, Buster was handled throughout by Kristian Harris, who was rendered speechless by their achievement.

This was not his first victory at Builth Wells, as he also won his class and stood reserve youngstock champion at the Royal Welsh last July among other accolades. Buster is out of Llanmorlais April and by Llanmorlais Sylvest, who has also picked up a flurry of championships with Kristian at his bridle this term.

“Buster’s a real kind colt and he always gives a good show like his sire,” said Kristian. “It’s been an incredible season for us.”

Standing reserve in the supreme championship was Sandy Anderson’s Thistledown Sugar Loaf, who had been Netherlands-based breeder Harold Zoet’s choice as Welsh section A champion the previous afternoon. Out of Thistledown Copacabana Special, the yearling filly was following in her father Ilar Dakota’s footsteps. He was section champion and overall supreme here in 2021.

“She’s only been very lightly shown,” said Liesl. “But she has quality, and swans round the show ring with an air of arrogance. She’s got bags of personality and loads of sass – I think that’s what catches your eye. She’s a definite yard favourite; she makes you smile every day.”

Overall quality

Perhaps testament to the quality of the overall championship line-ups, supreme Welsh judge Jocelyn Price chose her champions from the sections B and C.

She gave the sash to Alison Wright’s Thistledown Red Bull champion, handled by Yorkshire-based producer Josh Hampson. The yearling is by of reigning Horse of the Year Show ridden section B and former Royal Welsh in-hand champion, Kallared Heartbeat, out of Thistledown Arctic Daisy.

“Alison was after a B colt foal and I was helping Liesel Mead show his dam, and he was the foal on her,” explained Josh. “I thought a lot of him and told her I think he could be special. Luckily she agreed to trust my opinion and buy him.”

The gamble paid for Alison, as the classy colt has brough home a clutch of titles since.

“The plan is to show him up to a three-year-old – I think he’ll keep getting better with age – and then probably to have a go under saddle as he’s got a lovely nature and is very sweet; I have a soft spot for him.”

Jocelyn chose the reserve section C, Trenewydd Nathan, as her overall Welsh breeds reserve champion. Out of Synod Royal Treasure, the Trenewydd Canelo yearling colt was shown by his breeder Jack Bowerman.

To read the full report from the 2025 Royal Welsh Winter Fair, pick up a copy of 11 December issue of Horse & Hound magazine.

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‘The truest act of sportsmanship I’ve seen’ helps newcomer to first Royal Welsh win

Bethan Simons — Sat, 26 Jul 2025 14:02:16 +0000

An “above and beyond” act of sportsmanship from a fellow competitor helped a first-time exhibitor secure a red rosette at the 2025 Royal Welsh Show.

David Newsome said he felt “like a rabbit in the headlights” when judge Stuart Morgan pulled him in at the top of the line in the Welsh section C yearling filly class at the Royal Welsh with his own Coppathorne Glitz And Glamour.

David had only shown at five local and area shows before the Royal Welsh, and the family had only owned the flashy filly for a week, but decided they would bring her as she was entered and beautifully prepared by former producer Tommy Fuller.

“I never in a million years expected that,” said David. “I just thought I’d watch to see what a few others did first and copy them. But then when I was pulled top I couldn’t do that and I didn’t know what to do.”

But pulled second was Lowri Reed, a young lady with plenty of experience at the top.

“I asked Lowri what to do and fair play to her, she talked me through the whole thing. She told me where to stand, what to do and where to go through the whole thing. She didn’t need to do that; it’s a rare quality to help a competitor that way,” David said.

“Lowri deserves credit for my win as I couldn’t have done it without her. I’m really grateful to her.”

Wakefield-based David had his interest in the Welsh breeds piqued when he travelled to the Welsh breed sales two years ago to buy a pony for his daughter Chloe. He secured Welsh section D Dearnevalley Lady Di from the Dearne Valley stud.

“We bought her not knowing much about her so we visited Dearne Valley to see where she was bred and met Graham Schofield, her breeder,” David said. “He recommended that we contact Scott Gibbons who has produced for him over the years. I contacted Scott and it turned out that Scott lived just a mile from us. He and Kelly his wife initially provided us with a lot of help and advice.

“There are a lot of people who have advised us as our team has grown — more recently we’ve had a lot of support from friends Lee Garvey and Joe Mason who also show and breed Welsh for which we are very grateful. But Lowri’s sportsmanship went above and beyond in the class.”

Chief steward in the Welsh section Cs, Delyth Simons, agreed, adding: “I’ve been stewarding the section Cs at the Royal Welsh for over 20 years and this is the truest act of sportsmanship I have witnessed here.

“Lowri was remarkable. She helped David at every step. She was directing him around the ring and telling him what to do — where to turn and when — and even telling him when to tidy the filly’s mane and how to correct her halter. She is also a winner in my eyes.”

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

‘For Welsh owners, this one’s especially special’: Royal Welsh hunter champion owned and bred in the country

Bethan Simons — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 15:28:21 +0000

The early start was made well worthwhile for Matthew Ainsworth, who was all smiles as he piloted Emma Allum’s Foxridge Hiraeth to the 2025 Royal Welsh hunter championship. The Hilkens Gold Card seven-year-old topped the lightweight division en route to taking the first tricolour of the show.

“I’m delighted,” said a beaming Matthew. “The Allums are lovely people and they love the horse to bits. Royal shows are always special, but for Welsh owners this one’s especially special.

“I don’t come here often as it takes a special kind of horse to keep its head in the atmosphere and it can ruin them — it’s hard when there are 50-odd section Cs in the next ring galloping and lots of whooping and cheering. Luckily this horse has a great brain and has done right from the start.”

Matthew explained that he and long-term owners the Allum family, who own one of the few organic tanneries in the UK, bought Foxridge Hiraeth as a three-year-old from his breeders who live a stone’s throw from the Allums’ home near Whitland on the Pembrokeshire/Carmarthenshire border.

The Hereford-based producer has shown Hiraeth lightly. He was campaigned as a novice last season and picked up a 2025 Royal International (RIHS) ticket at North Somerset.

“He’s an out and out ladies horse in reality, and we’ve just started him side saddle with a view to campaigning him in ladies classes,” added Matthew.

In reserve was Redemption Ground, a horse with a long and sparkling career behind him. Lisa Davey’s 19-year-old heavyweight looked evergreen piloted by Christa Davies, who has also ridden him to glory in the ladies division on multiple occasions. Remarkably, this was his first visit to the Royal Welsh.

“He’s a total showman who always rises to the occasion. He loads himself onto the lorry,” said Lisa, adding, “we’re absolutely over the moon”.

Laura Taylor rode Jayne Griffiths’ dual coloured and weights contender, Pembrey Kinda Gold, to win the middleweights.

Lauren Rees’ Borderfields Mr Titan topped the smalls. The Balfour Whisper 12-year-old was ridden to glory by an air-punching Jessica Pritchard. They finished ahead of the youngest combination in the championship, Charlotte Owen’s homebred Tarr Dauntless ridden by her daughter Chloe Owen, 17.

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

Welsh-bred section B stallion triumphs at Horse of the Year Show in South Africa

Bethan Simons — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 16:16:45 +0000

A Welsh section B stallion born on Welsh soil, Heniarth Top of the Morning, made a spectacular return to the show ring at the South Africa Horse of the Year Show to stand overall Welsh and overall general champion in hand, repeating the success he enjoyed on his last show ring appearance in 2015.

By Lemonshill Top Note out of Eyarth Windflower, Top was exported to the Dolarch Stud in South Africa as a yearling, having won at the Welsh National Show at Malvern.

Now owned by Zadia Mostert Schutte of the Brynmore stud, the typey 12-year-old is produced by JJ Kemp and was shown initially by Scott Dixon, who flew in especially, and later by Thabo Mokoena.

“We are very privileged to have a pony of Top’s caliber at Brynmore stud,” said Zadia, who has recently welcomed Top’s very pleasing first foal.

“Top is a delightful specimen, not only in conformation, but also in temperament. We love having him around and cannot wait for his future show pony offspring in combination with the Arabians on the farm.”

Top was bred by Richard Miller and Meirion Davies and is from a family of very successful ponies; he is a full brother to past Royal Welsh champion Heniarth Wood-Wind and Australian champion Heniarth Whistle Down the Wind.

Not to be outdone, Top’s full sister Ting-a-Ling was leading Section B dam at the Royal Welsh last season, and another sister, Toodle-oo, was the dam of the 2023 champion, Heniarth Moonahmia.

“We’re delighted to see Top back out performing so far from Wales,” said Richard. “It was an honour to have him become one of the first section Bs to be exported to South Africa in recent times, but it was still a wrench to part with him as he had a tremendous character.

“However with the family’s ability to jump and perform, he’s already made a name for himself as a sire of special children’s ponies, so we can ask for no more!”

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

‘He oozed presence’: Welsh stallion from Holland leads M&M supreme at Royal Windsor

Alex Robinson — Fri, 03 May 2024 21:35:00 +0000

A big-moving Welsh section A became the new Horse & Hound Royal Windsor M&M supreme in-hand champion at the 2024 Royal Windsor Horse Show.

Melanie Peter’s 11-year-old Hoekhorst Example (Harry) was led to perfection by Tom Clark, who had only met the pony at the show this morning. The immaculate grey stallion displayed ample quality and Welsh type, while also maintaining a level head in front of the packed grandstand crowd.

Harry, who is more commonly seen under-saddle, ate up the ground during his lap of honour, cementing supreme judge Jackie Beatham’s decision to award him the title.

“As soon as he came into the ring he said look at me,” said Jackie, who chose the Idyllic Senator son over 11 other breed champions. “He oozed presence and had wonderful athletic movement. I also felt he would stamp his stock well.”

Harry was bred by the Hoeke Family in Holland. He started his career under-saddle with Cadlanvalley Stud’s Hayley and Libby Grota. Libby rode him to two Royal Welsh victories and the reserve supreme spot in the M&M championship at Horse of the Year Show in 2021, the same year he was supreme M&M at Royal Norfolk.

Melanie, for whom Royal Windsor is her local show, bought him for her daughter, Maisie, last August. He is based with producer Russell Ingram in Surrey.

“He’s a very kind stallion who Maisie can do everything with,” said Melanie. “I love that he’s a proper old-fashioned stamp, too. And he’s been beautifully produced by Libby and Hayley.”

Harry, who has stock on the ground, is back for the ridden classes tomorrow.

“He’s exactly the sort of stallion you would want to own,” Melanie continued. “He regularly goes cross country, goes on hound exercise and he’s just a bit of a legend really.”

Tom was equally delighted with the result: “He’s been a star and he’s brilliant to lead. This is the first time I’ve won this one, it’s actually the first time I’ve been in the main ring here.”

Cathy Wood’s prolific Connemara Cloverhill Magic, led out by Jamie Frost, posted reserve in the Royal Windsor M&M supreme in-hand championship.

“I like him as a type; he has both depth and limb in equal measures,” said Jackie.

The Glencarrig Knight son might only be seven years old, but he’s already appeared at HOYS multiple times. His best result at the final was achieved last year, when he finished third in the pony section. Jamie was last champion here in 2019 handling Cathy’s Connemara stallion Contepomi Cashel.

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‘I’ve worked with so many special ponies’: top showman retires after career spanning 50 years

Alex Robinson — Sun, 03 Dec 2023 20:51:09 +0000

Leading showman Colin Tibbey officially retired from the show ring at the Royal Welsh Winter Fair (27-28 November) after a career spanning over 50 years.

Colin marked his final outing as an in-hand professional in fine style, by finishing reserve Welsh section B champion handling Sandy Anderson’s yearling colt Thistledown Kingfisher.

“It did feel a bit surreal, after showing for some 50 years,” said Colin, who runs the Lacy Stud with his family, including wife Sarah. “I decided it was time to go out while I was still able to make that choice. I still have a huge amount of enthusiasm for Welsh ponies, and I hope to carry on breeding — my first love and main passion — as well as judging.”

Colin has reigned over the Welsh pony circuit for decades. He first joined the Welsh Pony and Cob Society in 1965 and he has since handled dozens of Royal Welsh winners and multiple section champions. He has qualified 25 times for the in-hand supreme final at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) with either Welsh section A or B ponies. He won the HOYS in-hand supreme final with Welsh section A Pinewell Bucks Fizz two years on the trot, in 2008 and 2009, and in 2016 with Welsh section B Moelgarnedd Stadross.

He produced a host of other prolific ponies during his career, making legends out of many of them. One such pony was the late Welsh section A stallion Blackhill Picalo, a two-time HOYS finalist himself and the sire of Pinewell Bucks Fizz.

“It’s so hard to pick the most special pony as I’ve worked with many, but if someone had a gun to my head I’d pick Picalo,” said Colin. “He was a very good friend to me and he won everything there was to win. He has also been a tremendous sire, leaving his mark on the breed as a stock-getter. He’s a legend and I’m lucky that our paths crossed.”

Like many Welsh enthusiasts, Colin cannot doubt the occasion of the Royal Welsh, but he is equally fond of HOYS and the Royal Highland.

“The atmosphere at HOYS is like no other, but the Highland is also a favourite of mine from an enjoyment point of view,” he said. “I feel lucky to have experienced the shows I have done, and I’m grateful for all the special moments along the way with the ponies.”

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‘He was game for anything’: farewell to much-loved Welsh stallion who did it all

Alex Robinson — Tue, 08 Aug 2023 15:32:08 +0000

The prolific Welsh section A stallion Gartconnel Shooting Star has died aged 26.

Gartconnel Shooting Star, who was known at home as Rambo, was bred by the Russell Family of the Gartconnel Stud out of Gartconnel Seirian by Betws Llew.

Liz Russell knew that the upstanding grey foal who was born in May 1997 was to have a bright future.

“He was an exceedingly special foal,” Liz said. “He was very bold, and he took control of the field from the moment he hit the floor.”

Rambo was initially shown by the Russells before he joined Colin Tibbey’s Lacy Stud to continue his in-hand career. As a three-year-old he was crowned youngstock champion at the Royal Welsh. His in-hand tally extended over the years and he garnered multiple accolades, including the Royal Cheshire M&M in-hand supreme title. He was also a two-time Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) supreme in-hand finalist and he won the Royal Highland on five occasions.

“We decided to retire him from the in-hand ring aged 12,” Liz continued. “He came home and we thought it was such a shame that he was looking so well and that he would be sitting at home all winter with no job. So, I got in touch with Penny Francis and her daughter Catherine Hudson, who have had many ponies for us over the years, to see if they would be interested in taking Rambo on. And so began his second career.”

Catherine and Rambo formed a formidable partnership, qualifying for HOYS and finishing second at the final, and also standing best of breed and third overall in the M&M supreme final at Olympia. He won other championship titles at National Pony Society (NPS) Area XI, British Show Pony Society Heritage Championships, Pembrokeshire County, Mid-Shires and Welsh Pony and Cob Society shows. In 2013, he contested a season with Alice Wright as her schoolmaster, qualifying for HOYS and standing second at the Great Yorkshire.

“He covered for a few years, and then in May 2020 Catherine came up to us to see the foals,” said Liz. “She saw Rambo the field aged 19, and she said ‘he looks so good he could go straight back into the ring’. He went back to Catherine’s yard soon after, in August he qualified for HOYS at the NPS Summer Championships and in October he finished second at the HOYS final. He hadn’t forgotten a thing.”

Rambo, who was also broken to drive, leaves progeny who have achieved major results both in hand and under-saddle. One of his daughters was a winner in hand at this year’s Royal Welsh.

“He always made people smile,” Liz said. “As well as being so true to type, he was game for anything and he loved to perform. One of my favourite memories was of him playing in the field with his foals at home. They didn’t half give him hell, but he just took it and came back in a way that was so kind, a testament to his lovely temperament. He will leave a big hole in our lives.”

Catherine added: “He was a true gentleman. We had incredible success in the show ring together and he has taught me so much. He’s given me memories to treasure for ever.”

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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.

‘I’d been knocking on the Royal Welsh door for years’ – ones to watch in 2023

Alex Robinson — Mon, 02 Jan 2023 07:02:44 +0000

The supreme in-hand final at the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) is arguably the most hotly-contested championships on the showing circuit, and Shane Rogers has been working hard to get there.

For most who show in-hand, leading a pony through the gates into the TopSpec Arena at the NEC is on the bucket list, and Shane Rogers did just that in October 2022, presenting Jane Laffey’s part-bred Welsh Rotherwood Firefox.

Shane qualified the three-year-old gelding at Stoneleigh Horse Show and the duo finished a credible sixth at the final.

Shane’s 2022 show season has been his best yet; he not only qualified for HOYS but won at the Royal Welsh, a dream he’s been chasing since he started his handling career.

His charge was Rhian Roberts’ lovely Welsh section C Broodmare Rhencullen Pretty P, who is known as Maz at home, who won her class and trotted off with the Welsh section C broodmare championship.

Shane Rogers hails from a non-horsey family and he began showing via Lucy Thompson’s thoroughbred Showcase, who he campaigned at local level both in-hand and under-saddle.

“I’d tried a bit of everything but settled on showing after competing for a few seasons,” says Shane, who then began showing Welsh ponies and found a long-lasting love for the breeds.

Over the years Shane has won at numerous shows, including Royal Windsor, Royal Cornwall, Midland Counties and Royal Cheshire, among others. While Welsh ponies are his bread and butter, he’s been involved with various breeds, including Friesians, New Forests, part-breds and riding horses.

“Ever since I first experienced the Royal Welsh show I wanted to win there,” Shane explains. “After knocking on the door for many years — I’ve had several seconds and even been reserve champion — I finally won at the show with Maz.”

One of Shane’s most consistent ponies is Jane Laffey’s Rotherwood Jubilee Diamond who has enjoyed a run of success in the ring, winning at Royal Windsor, Royal Cheshire, the Welsh National championships, the National Pony Society summer championships, Herts County and Newark and Notts. He was also pulled into the top six in several HOYS Cuddy (now known as the Price Family) in-hand qualifiers.

Jane Laffey’s Rotherwood Jubilee Diamond, a winner at Royal Windsor in 2022 (Image credit: creditUnknown)

“Jane’s Rotherwood Firefox qualified for the Price Family in-hand championship at HOYS this year, too, which was an amazing movement,” says Shane, who also has fond memories of handling Netherlands-based Welsh section A stallion Potteries Simon for two seasons. He finished as reserve male champion with him at the Royal Welsh in 2019.

Shane leads Rotherwood Firefox to a HOYS in-hand supreme ticket (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Shane also owns the Welsh section C stallion Bodynys Kaino who, under Katy Marriott-Payne, was a three-time HOYS ridden finalist and Royal Welsh champion under-saddle.

“I’ve owned him since he was six months old and he’s probably the one I’m most proud of,” says Shane, who will be showing ponies for the Lewis family’s Rhydyfelin stud next season.

Shane runs his own yard and most of his show animals reside at his base, with the exception of a couple of ponies who he meets at shows.

“I don’t have a team of people on the yard, just a few good friends who help out with cover whilst I’m away at shows,” he says. “We have some lovely youngsters coming through who we are very excited about, though I will be keeping them a secret for now. It certainly looks like 2023 is going to be my busiest yet!

“I’ve met so many people whilst showing all over the world, many who I can genuinely call good friends,” he continues. “It’s great watching friends compete and do well.”

Shane hasn’t slowed down too much during the festive period.

“Christmas revolved around the ponies,” he says. “At the moment, the yard is quiet as the majority of ponies have returned home to their owners for their winter breaks. But before we know it, the show season will be upon us and we will be raring to go.”

The ultimate Welsh pony shop window, a feast of advanced eventing and two other events to follow this week

Pippa Roome — Tue, 19 Jul 2022 07:32:21 +0000

From the Royal Welsh Show to top event horses at Aston-le-Walls, we bring you our regular round-up of the coming week in horse sport…

1. Royal Welsh Show

Dates: 18-21 July

More info: rwas.wales/royal-welsh

How to watch: s4c.cymru

Get the H&H lowdown: full report in 28 July issue of the magazine

Why we’re excited about it: four days of top-class equestrian competition held at the legendary venue of Builth Wells. While all types of horses and ponies will be on display, the show is the ultimate shop window for Welsh pony and cob breeders who prepare their best stock all year round to compete. Who will take home the leading supreme titles and cement themselves in the record books? The show is also regarded as one of the pinnacle events in the British agricultural calendar, so expect a showcase of other champion livestock, too.

2. Bicton Arena Summer Regional Championship

Dates: 22-24 July

More info: bicton-arena.co.uk

Get the H&H lowdown: coverage in the 4 August issue of the magazine

Why we’re excited about it: summer regionals season continues with the top riders at each level from the south-west region going head to head at Bicton in an attempt to secure tickets for the National Dressage Championships. Classes runs from prelim to inter I at both god and silver level.

3. Aston-le-Walls Horse Trials

Dates: 22-24 July

More info: schedule on British Eventing website

Get the H&H lowdown: report in 28 July issue of the magazine

Why we’re excited about it: this fixture always attracts a host of top-class horses and riders for the advanced classes, with many using it as a prep run for Burghley Horse Trials or an autumn championship. The two regular advanced sections include among their entries the likes of Austin O’Connor and Colorado Blue (who were very impressive at last year’s Tokyo Olympics), Zara Tindall and Class Affair, Tom McEwen with last year’s Pau Horse Trials runner-up CHF Cooliser, the 2019 Burghley winners Pippa Funnell and MGH Grafton Street and Kitty King’s eventing World Championship long-listed horse Vendredi Biats. Bubby Upton has four horses in the under-25 class, where she can expect challenges from on-form pairs such as Mollie Summerland (recent Barbury winner with Charly Van Ter Heiden), Felicity Collins (RSH Contend Or) and Tom Woodward (Low Moor Lucky). In the section for eight- and nine-year-old horses, watch out for last year’s seven-year-old national champion Quidam De Lux (Stephen Heal), Outback II (Laura Collett) and MHS Brown Jack (Tom McEwen).

4. Port Royal Summer Regional Championship

Dates: 22-24 July

More info: portroyaleec.co.uk/

How to watch: set to be live streamed on Horse & Country

Get the H&H lowdown: coverage in the 4 August issue of the magazine

Why we’re excited about it: this championship is set to be hotly contested by riders across the northern region, with tickets to the National Dressage Championships on offer from prelim all the way up to inter I, at gold and silver.

Royal Welsh Winter Fair judges crown a new star from a small stud

Alex Robinson — Mon, 13 Dec 2021 19:03:21 +0000

A Welsh section A colt from a small stud is crowned overall supreme ahead of a top-drawer field of future champions at the Royal Welsh Winter Fair, Royal Welsh Showground, Powys

SMALL-SCALE breeder Owen Griffiths had cause for celebration when his home-bred Welsh section A colt Ilar Dakota stole the show and scored him his first Royal Welsh Winter Fair win and subsequent supreme title at the Royal Welsh Showground, Powys.

The Winter Fair was, as usual, a showcase of future stars of both the breeding field and show ring. Bumper entries were witnessed across the two days, with breeders using the fixture as a shop window for their stock.

After scoring his yearling class, Dakota – the first foal from his dam, Waxwing Dainty Dinah, whom Owen has on lease from the notable Waxwing Stud – was pulled forward as overall supreme with handler Sam Morsley, ahead of the Bigley family’s championed Welsh section B, Llanarth Consort.

“My section A numbers are relatively low,” explained Owen. “Dakota’s win hopefully goes to show that even the small-scale breeder can produce champions with the right breeding lines.”

Dakota is by Owen’s own young stallion Waxwing Fly Past.

“I have retained Dakota’s full brother, Ilar Denver, this year and I hope to have him on the in-hand scene before he comes out under saddle in a few years,” added Owen. “Dakota has been line-bred to Revel Hetty, who is arguably one of the most influential Welsh mountain ponies. This is my first major win with the breed.

“My mission is always to breed a pony that has the temperament, mentality and conformation to compete as a child’s ridden pony.”

Dewi Roberts judged the supreme championship.

“From the moment the exhibitors entered the ring, I was drawn to the section A, the section B and the part-bred, but for me the section A had the X-factor. He had presence, a beautiful topline and shoulder and an exquisite head. He was also clean limbed and had free-flowing action.

“I’m sure he’ll succeed in whatever the future has in store. I entered the ring with an open mind and walked out with a clear conscience, and the honour of the day will stay with me a long time.”

Poignant victory at Royal Welsh Winter Fair

CATRYN BIGLEY was at the bridle of the reserve supreme choice and overall Welsh supreme, the home-bred Llanarth Consort. The yearling colt was attending his second show, his first being at National Pony Society Area 29 where he netted the supreme in-hand honour.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Consort, who is by Breeton Dai, was following the path taken by his dam, Llanarth Delilah, who was section B champion and Welsh supreme at the Winter Fair in 2008 as a yearling.

“Delilah went on to be breed champion and supreme in-hand at the Royal Welsh in 2012 and was female champion there in 2014,” said Catryn, who was attending the Winter Fair for the first time since the passing of her father, the influential breeder, judge and showman Len Bigley.

“Dad said Consort was one we should never part with. Consort is also the last foal by Breeton Dai to be bred here at Llanarth. We hope he follows in his parents’ footsteps, not only as a show animal, but also as a prepotent sire.”

Reserve for the section A crown was Keith Hughes’ Brynodyn Symphony Ann. Kate Williams led her own filly foal, Byley Eliza, to reserve in the section B championship, giving her a first Royal Welsh Winter Fair win.

The coloured section was topped by Michelle Pickford’s native yearling Burghwallis Storm Chaser (Noah), who was given the nod ahead of Hilary Waterhouse’s Willowsway Love Affair.

“I’d wanted a Burghwallis native for a long time and as soon as I saw Noah advertised at just a day old, I had to have him,” said Michelle of the colt by Burghwallis Moonlight out of Grafters Lass. “I went to see him at a week old and bought him as a birthday present to myself.”

At the Coloured Horse and Pony Society championships in August, Noah enjoyed a red-letter week, culminating his show with the overall youngstock supreme title.

“It was our first visit to the Winter Fair so we’re delighted,” Michelle added. “We couldn’t stay for the supreme due to work commitments but, hopefully, it will be the first of many visits to the showground for Noah. We’ll do some more in-hand with him over the next few years, but ultimately we want him as a ridden pony.”

Jessica Goldsworthy’s Monahawk Real Magic yearling, Penstrumbly The Illusionist (Tiger), won the Welsh part-bred championship.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“I’d had one too many drinks at home and bought him over social media,” told Jessica. “I tend to get a bit broody and buy animals. We went up to see him and thankfully he was the most lovely foal.”

Tiger was gelded in February and while he lives with Jessica the majority of the time, he returned to his breeder Rebecca Lamb’s base for production in the run-up to the Winter Fair and was shown by her on the day.

“We originally thought he’d make a hunter pony, but he’s quite mature for his age,” added Jessica. “He’s full of character and I think I can say he was a good purchase under the influence!”

Reserve in the part-bred championship was the Thomas’s winning exceeding 148cm foal Mount Pleasant Silver.

“It was a special day”

A WELSH section D filly foal broke the run of colts as she scored her section tricolour. This was Eurig Eynon and Rebecca Faulkner’s Abercippyn Victors Last daughter, Hatterall Lady Beth, shown by Justin Walters.Eurig and Rebecca sourced Lady Beth’s dam, Llanarth Beth, from the Llanarth Stud when she was in foal.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“I’ve been waiting for a double knee operation so Justin offered to have Lady Beth for us,” said Rebecca. “He also had a customer abroad who was interested in her, but our daughter, Ella, wants to keep her. ”

While Rebecca and Eurig have achieved Winter Fair titles with coloureds, sport horses and part-breds in the past, this was their first Welsh breed championship.

“It was a very special day,” Rebecca added.

Sara Williams’ Parciau Ana Mai was called out as reserve section D champion, after standing second behind Lady Beth in class.

On his first outing, Richard and Joanna Morgan’s home-bred Welsh section C colt Ormond Brenin Y Ser, shown by Dorian Lloyd, headed his yearling class en route to the breed championship and reserve supreme Welsh award.

The chestnut, by supreme champion Synod Apollo, is out of the Morgan’s treasured broodmare Synod Rita Rose.

“He came to me and my wife Michelle before the show and then he’ll head home for a nice rest,” said Dorian.

Bryncarnau Glorys, exhibited by Nathan Sage, took reserve in the section C championship.

Glenys Owen’s yearling, Abermenai Lady, landed the sport horse sash, ahead of Margaret Jones’ Dollas Show Girl.

This report will also be available to read in Horse & Hound magazine, on sale Thursday 16 December

Welsh mountain pony promoted to lance corporal by the British Army

Becky Murray — Fri, 26 Jul 2019 06:03:33 +0000

A “deserving” Welsh mountain pony has been promoted to lance corporal by the British Army.

Regimental mascot Trooper Emrys Forlan Jones, who serves with the 1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards (QDG) (The Welsh Cavalry), has been promoted in recognition of his service.

The six-year-old gelding was given the promotion in the main ring at the Royal Welsh Show (22 to 25 July) by Brigadier Alan Richmond OBE, head of the Army in Wales and regimental colonel of the QDG.

The pony’s handler, Farrier Major Lance Corporal Mark Holland, said Tpr Jones “thoroughly deserves” the promotion, describing the gelding as “amazing”.

“It’s a rare thing for promotion to take place away from the regimental headquarters and it’s certainly something that’s never happened at the Royal Welsh Show, so to have Jones promoted in front of thousands of people in Builth Wells is very different to the norm,” he said.

“Everyone knows Jones at the Royal Welsh – he’s already a celebrity there. When people pass his pen they love seeing him and call out to him. Jones is special, but very nosey, checking out what the other horses are doing at the show.”

Article continued below…

(Image credit: 160th Infantry Brigade media team)

Police hunt youths who chased and threw things at Army horses

(Image credit: 160th Infantry Brigade media team)

Household Cavalry enjoy a blast on Holkham beach

The ride on Holkham beach is one of the highlights of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment’s annual north Norfolk training

(Image credit: 160th Infantry Brigade media team)

The gelding was recruited from Forlan Stud in Wiltshire in February 2016 and is the first ever QDG mascot, after the regiment sought permission from the Queen. The regiment said it chose a Welsh mountain pony to keep in touch with its Welsh heritage and the tradition of the Welsh cavalry charging into battle on horseback. Since joining QDG Jones has stood on parade at numerous events across the UK in front of thousands of people including royalty.

Lieutenant Colonel Justin Stenhouse DSO MBE, commanding officer of the QDG, said: “He has been instrumental in raising our profile. His diary is full and he’s often travelling across the country from our current headquarters in Norfolk to Wales.

“The farrier major was recognised this year at our 60th anniversary and was awarded the regimental medal. It is therefore only right and proper that Tpr Jones is also recognised for all he has done and I am very pleased that he has been promoted to LCpl. He has met the requirement many times over.”

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

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He produced a host of other prolific ponies during his career, making legends out of many of them. One such pony was the late Welsh section A stallion Blackhill Picalo, a two-time HOYS finalist himself and the sire of Pinewell Bucks Fizz.

Like many Welsh enthusiasts, Colin cannot doubt the occasion of the Royal Welsh, but he is equally fond of HOYS and the Royal Highland.

“The atmosphere at HOYS is like no other, but the Highland is also a favourite of mine from an enjoyment point of view,” he said. “I feel lucky to have experienced the shows I have done, and I’m grateful for all the special moments along the way with the ponies.”

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Liz Russell knew that the upstanding grey foal who was born in May 1997 was to have a bright future.

“He was an exceedingly special foal,” Liz said. “He was very bold, and he took control of the field from the moment he hit the floor.”

Rambo, who was also broken to drive, leaves progeny who have achieved major results both in hand and under-saddle. One of his daughters was a winner in hand at this year’s Royal Welsh.

Catherine added: “He was a true gentleman. We had incredible success in the show ring together and he has taught me so much. He’s given me memories to treasure for ever.”

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Shane also owns the Welsh section C stallion Bodynys Kaino who, under Katy Marriott-Payne, was a three-time HOYS ridden finalist and Royal Welsh champion under-saddle.

“I’ve owned him since he was six months old and he’s probably the one I’m most proud of,” says Shane, who will be showing ponies for the Lewis family’s Rhydyfelin stud next season.

Shane runs his own yard and most of his show animals reside at his base, with the exception of a couple of ponies who he meets at shows.

“I’ve met so many people whilst showing all over the world, many who I can genuinely call good friends,” he continues. “It’s great watching friends compete and do well.”

Shane hasn’t slowed down too much during the festive period.

“Christmas revolved around the ponies,” he says. “At the moment, the yard is quiet as the majority of ponies have returned home to their owners for their winter breaks. But before we know it, the show season will be upon us and we will be raring to go.”

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