Latest from Horse & Hound in Trevor-breen

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

Sarah Radford — Mon, 29 Jun 2026 13:29:05 +0000

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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Home-bred grey comes of age to win HOYS grand prix with rider who came back from serious injury: ‘He ticks all the boxes’

Lucy Elder — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 22:57:19 +0000

Ireland’s Trevor Breen and home-bred Kannoon Blue delivered the sole double clear to win the HOYS leading showjumper of the year title (12 October) – a triumph that concluded with a three-Whitaker showdown.

The nine-year-old grey breezed over Alan Wade’s intense grand prix track, seizing victory with scope to spare.

“Kannoon Blue is a phenomenal horse. He’s a half-brother to Highland President, who would traditionally be my best horse,” said Trevor, in reference to his European team silver medal-winning ride.

“But this guy is really coming of age this year. He’s just got better and better. I’ve always believed in him, so it’s nice when that starts to come into fruition.

“He ticks all the boxes, he has huge amounts of scope, he’s unbelievably careful and he’s quite quick as well – and he’s getting quicker.

“He’s an unbelievable horse to ride. I really think there’s not much that he won’t be able to do in the future.”

Trevor returned to competition at the end of last year, after breaking his neck and back in a fall in Hamburg in May 2024. He won a grand prix in Dubai in January and has “kicked on” since.

“It’s been a phenomenal year – I couldn’t have dreamt of this kind of year when I was lying in the hospital bed in Hamburg,” he said.

“Huge thanks to my team, my wife Caroline, my family, owners and staff at home. Without them, I wouldn’t have been able to come back and to get going as well as I have with all the horses. It’s a huge team effort, thank you to everyone for putting me here – it’s all down to them.”

He added: “The atmosphere here is brilliant. All the riders love riding here. You go in there and you just grow – it’s just amazing and the crowd get behind you.

“Even though John Whitaker was last to go – and I nearly wanted him to win myself, because he’s a legend of the sport and British as well – there was still huge support for me in there, and I’m hugely grateful for that, it’s really appreciated.”

Eight challengers

Eight competitors went through to the jump-off – six clears and the two fastest combinations with four faults.

Former winner Jodie Hall-McAteer and Key West were the first of the four-faulters to go against the clock, ramping up the pressure on the remaining seven by virtue of a neat clear. Eventual runners-up Sandy Mclean and Gino F, who also carried four faults from the first round, were next in – and shaved close to three seconds off Jodie’s time.

The next three riders – Jessica Burke (Seapatrick Toulon), Joe Stockdale (Its Confidential) and William Whitaker (Cristallo’s Double Take) – each picked up a smattering of faults, before Trevor and Kannoon Blue raised the bar.

From here, it was Ireland versus the remaining Whitakers. Robert Whitaker and the great Vermento were drawn as the penultimate combination to start, and Robert’s father, showjumping legend John Whitaker (Equine America Unick Du Francport) was the final rider to challenge for the title.

Robert caught Trevor on time, but a rail at the Evoke oxer dropped him to third in the final results. John, a touch steadier, also had a pole at the butterfly upright to finish fifth.

“I’m happy with the way the horse performed – he jumped very good. He’s had a little break, and he’s very fresh; probably a bit disappointed I didn’t win it, but that’s showjumping for you,” said Robert.

Amazing comeback

Sandy faced an anxious wait to see how far his tactical, speedy jump-off performance could lift him up the leaderboard. Their second place was all the more special for the journey this pair have been on together.

“It’s hard coming back in with four faults, being the right start of the jump-off, and not really knowing what you’ve got to do,” said Sandy.

“He’s such a big, scopey, fast horse that we threw down the mark, and it nearly paid off. I didn’t think we’d end up as high as we did, but I’m absolutely delighted.

“Lexi, my groom, walked him off, so I was able to go and watch – and I nearly fell off the edge of that bannister! I thought, ‘We’re getting closer to it here’. It got to a point where we were guaranteed top five, then top four, then top three, and before you knew it, we were second.

“I’ve been riding Gino F for seven years, he taught me to jump the big classes and he’s been unbelievable. Just over a year ago, he sustained a bad injury and had to be on box rest – we didn’t know if he’d jump again. So to be back at this level again with him a year later is just unbelievable.”

Vet Peter Schofield was key in getting to the bottom of Gino’s injury. It’s down to him, as well as the care and rehabilitation provided by Sandy and his team, support from those involved in his mum’s riding school, and daily trips to a Scottish beach, that the horse recovered .

“It took a lot of time, and now he is back and feeling amazing,” said Sandy.

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He said: ‘I knew you were going to do that!’ Top rider swipes win from under brother’s nose – with his ‘future dream horse’

Eleanor Jones — Sat, 21 Jun 2025 14:15:06 +0000

Shane Breen came in last to swipe the Clipmyhorse.tv Master’s Trophy from under his brother Trevor’s nose at the Al Shira’aa Hickstead Derby meeting – with his “future dream horse”.

Trevor and Luidam’s Warrior had held the lead from first draw in the 12-strong jump-off with a beautifully balanced and deceptively fast round, until Shane and BP Arctic Blue came in and took over a second off their time.

“He said: ‘What did you do that for; I knew you were going to do that’!” Shane joked afterwards. “I saw him go and it was a very good round, neat and tight, but I thought I’d go full speed to the first. The late Con Power once told me that if you gallop through the start beams, you’ll always be half a second ahead of everyone, so I just thought ‘gallop’!”

Winner. Shane Breen (IRL) and BP Arctic Blue in The Clipmyhorse.TV Hickstead Master's Trophy at The Al Shira'aa Hickstead Derby Meeting, The All England Jumping Course, Hickstead, Sussex, United Kingdom. June 21st 2025 (Image credit: Elli Birch/Bootsandhooves)

Shane and Gibbs Int Ltd and S Richards’ nine-year-old then took a few strides out, including a flier to the last double.

“I didn’t know if I’d beaten Trevor, then looked at the clock and was dead chuffed,” he said. “Arctic Blue is an absolutely incredible horse.”

Shane spotted the son of A Pikachu De Muze as a five-year-old, then he and his wife Chloe bought him at the end of 2023.

Trevor and Shane Breen with their father John (Image credit: Elli Birch/Bootsandhooves)

“I always thought he looked like a dream horse,” he said. “I produced him quietly last year, and this year he’s been amazing; he’s jumped six grands prix, won one, second in four and third, and he’s an absolute pleasure. He’s super smart and a great character, and he gives me everything; you can feel his whole body, like an elastic band. And all he wants is a few Polos and cuddles. He wants to be a celebrity, and hopefully he will be. Nine years old and for me, he’s my future dream horse.”

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Extra-special moment as medal-winning rider who broke back in fall makes winning comeback to Hickstead

Eleanor Jones — Fri, 20 Jun 2025 12:11:34 +0000

Trevor Breen made a winning Hickstead comeback, a year after he broke his neck and back in a potentially career-ending fall.

The Irish rider and his wife Caroline’s Kannoon Blue won the Astore & Sons 1.35m Open Championship on the opening day of competition in the International Arena, at the Al Shira’aa Hickstead Derby meeting.

Trevor said it is “always lovely” to win at his local show, but this time was extra special.

The Irish medal-winning rider suffered three fractures of his lower neck and back, in the fall in Hamburg last May. He underwent immediate surgery and it was found later that he had been millimetres from severing his spinal cord.

But he has made a remarkable recovery, and showed that he is back to his best as he and the nine-year-old homebred, a half brother of Trevor’s European silver medal winner Highland President, beat Carmen Edwards and Vigo Cruz into second.

Winner. Trevor Breen (GBR) and Kannoon Blue in The Astore & Sons 1.35m Open Championship in memory of Tracy Astore at The Al Shira'aa Hickstead Derby Meeting, The All England Jumping Course, Hickstead, Sussex, United Kingdom. June 19th 2025 (Image credit: Elli Birch/Bootsandhooves)

“It’s a bit more special because he’s a home-bred, and myself, Caroline and my father own him,” Trevor said. “He’s a similar type, but he’s probably not as difficult as Highland President. He has his own quirks, in his own way, but he’s a very talented jumper. I’ve taken my time with him and now, he’s getting to step up a bit.”

Trevor said Kannoon Blue’s first trip round the International Arena set him up perfectly for Aachen in a fortnight’s time.

“This couldn’t have gone any better,” he said. “Until this year, he’d just jumped in national shows, then I took him to the UAE over the winter, which was his first real taste of international sport. Since then, he’s been on a very upward trajectory, but he’s taken everything in his stride so far.

“It was really easy today – he can go a little spooky but he didn’t at all in there. He was very confident, and it was very easy for him. He gave me a great spin; it was really easy work for me and that was a really good feeling.”

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One epic week! Three cousins pick up HOYS tickets – and their dads didn’t do badly either

Eleanor Jones — Sat, 07 Jun 2025 16:44:19 +0000

Three young cousins were part of an epic week for the Breen team as they all qualified for Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) at the same show.

Darcy, 15-year-old daughter of Shane and Chloe Breen, won the 148cm open class and the pony showjumper of the year qualifier with One Sahara at South View’s summer pony premier show (30 May-1 June), and her brother Dougie, 12, won the 128cm open and came second in the HOYS qualifier with Lambay Off Broadway. Not to be outdone, 13-year-old Mia Breen, daughter of Trevor and Caroline, picked up her ticket to the 138cm championship with Another Milton.

“Chloe and I normally do all the kids together at the shows but this time I went up by myself – it made leaving at 3am and a 400-mile round trip worth it!” Caroline said. “We’re very close as a family and normally we work as a team; one of us drives the truck and one of us picks kids up from school. Trevor was in St Gallen and Shane was in Hamburg and everyone was so happy on the group chat when they qualified.”

And the rest of the Breen team had a good week too. Shane won a CSI5* 1.50m class in Hambury with Cato Boy and Trevor and Highland President jumped double clear in the CSI5* Nations Cup in St Gallen for Ireland. Georgia Tame and Loughton Diamond won the five-star speed derby in Hamburg and Eve McCoy and Hucalinde jumped double clear to help Britain win the junior Nations Cup in Zuidwolde.

Lucy Townley and Billy On My Mind and Katie Speller on Z7 Pink Panther also picked up HOYS tickets, for the newcomers and talent seekers finals respectively.

“Well, that was one epic week!” the Breen team said.

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‘Astounding – I’m so proud’: Ireland delivers a rare and remarkable result in Longines League of Nations

Jennifer Donald — Sat, 15 Feb 2025 15:28:39 +0000

Going one better than their runner-up spot in last year’s Longines League of Nations (LLN) season opener, Ireland delivered a dominant and flawless performance to win in this year’s curtain-opener in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

Across seven rounds of jumping, not a single pole fell for the Irish quartet. Considering the team included a combination jumping at their first show together and a rider who was told nine months ago that he may never walk again, this was a remarkable result.

“I’m so proud of these boys,” said Ireland’s chef d’equipe Michael Blake. “This means everything, we came here last year and we held the lead at half time, but as they say it was a game of two halves and our second half wasn’t as good. We were very resilient today and to win on a zero score – we jumped seven horses today and not one had a pole down – it’s astounding. I’m so proud of my boys.

“We’re punching above our weight and we’re very proud to do so.”

Three teams on zero score at half-time in the Longines League of Nations

Santiago Varela built a delicate course, which included similar elements to last year’s challenge including a water jump to an airy double of verticals and a meaty combination with an oxer out to the lightest vertical with a plank on top to finish. Three nations came through to round two on a zero score – Ireland, France and host nations UAE – with Great Britain securing their ticket to round two as one of four teams tied on eight faults.

The Netherlands, USA and the three-rider squad of Sweden missed out on qualifying from the top eight teams from the 11 starters.

Despite the pressure that the three-riders-to-a-team second round puts on their shoulders, with all scores counting, Ireland’s team representatives continued to deliver double clear after double clear with Denis Lynch (Vistogrand) and Trevor Breen (Highland President) paving the way. With France and UAE dropping off the top of the leader board in round two, victory hinged on Ireland’s anchor rider Mikey Pender to deliver with HHS Los Angeles. Shrugging off the weight of responsibility, the ice cool 25-year-old produced the hat-trick of double clears and a tremendous victory was secured.

“It’s been a long road back but with the help of my wife Caroline, kids and family and all my staff, owners, I’ve managed to get back here,” said Trevor Breen, who fractured his lower neck and back in a fall in Hamburg last year riding his home-bred Highland President. “I set my goal quite a few months ago for this Nations Cup, but I had to convince Michael I was ready!

“I didn’t even speak to him for a long time because I needed to get results first. So I’m unbelievably chuffed that Michael would put his trust in me and I’m over moon to be back at this level and to deliver.”

Ireland take to the podium after winning the Longines League of Nations in Abu Dhabi. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

New partnership deliver on show debut

Jason Foley came home with just two time-penalties in round one and although he wasn’t one of the three riders Michael Blake chose for round two, this was a superb performance from a rider competing on a horse he only started riding a few weeks ago and who he only jumped in the ring for the first time on Thursday – Chedington Hazy Toulana, formerly ridden by Chris Burton.

“To win here topped it all off,” said the 23-year-old.

Winning team competitions without a single jumping fault is not unprecedented but it’s a rare occurrence “because it’s so hard to do”, explained Michael Blake, who credited team veteran Denis Lynch for taking the riders “under his wing”. Mikey Pender agreed, paying tribute to a great team atmosphere for Ireland’s Longines League of Nations victory.

“Everyone was rooting for each other,” said Mikey, who was part of the runner-up team last year. “It feels sweet today.”

The host side UAE, led by chef d’equipe William Funnell assisted by Duncan Inglis, held on for the runner-up spot on eight faults, helped by a double clear from Abdullah Humaid Al Muhairi with Chacolu, with France finishing third on 12 penalties, with two double clears on the score card.

Great Britain finished in sixth position with a team total of 20. Donald Whitaker’s exceptional double clear with Millfield Colette played a pivotal role. Rising star Robert Murphy jumped round for four and eight faults riding Jos Lansink’s Kannem JA Z, while Tim Gredley and Imperial HBF picked up four faults in each round. Joe Stockdale and Ebanking just succumbed to the middle part of the triple combination round one and sat out round two.

The Longines League of Nations journey continues next to Ocala, Florida, with the Final in Barcelona in October. You can read the full report from Abu Dhabi’s opening leg of this team series in this week’s Horse & Hound, in the shops Thursday 20 February.

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‘Over the moon’: eight months after breaking his neck in a fall, Trevor Breen lands major grand prix

Jennifer Donald — Mon, 27 Jan 2025 17:03:43 +0000

In May 2024, Irish showjumper Trevor Breen fractured his back and neck in a fall in Hamburg, Germany, and was “millimetres from dying”.

He’s since endured a long road to recovery, but Trevor was back in the saddle after four months and he returned to the ring at the end of last year.

Trevor has been based in the UAE since December, competing on the popular international winter showjumping circuit there in recent weeks, and on Sunday (26 January) he triumphed in Abu Dhabi’s CSI4* World Cup grand prix presented by Longines riding the talented 11-year-old mare Luidam’s Warrior.

This marked a remarkable return to top-flight sport for the European silver medal-winning rider and Trevor described himself as “over the moon”.

“I was very happy with that, it was super,” Trevor told H&H. “Luidam’s Warrior is a class mare. She was in unbelievable form last year – she was flying in Windsor and Hamburg, she was unbelievable, right up until I broke my neck.

“So obviously she had a break while I was off, then I brought her out here to get her back up and running,” he said of the 11-year-old British-bred daughter of Luidam’s Elite, out of a Warrior mare. “She started off in the 1.30m classes a few weeks ago, then that was her first grand prix since I’ve come back and it was a four-star World Cup grand prix she’s won there, so she’s pretty incredible.”

Trevor Breen: “She’s such a cool mare”

Trevor and Luidam’s Warrior produced the sole double clear in a nine-way jump-off to decide the grand prix honours.

“It was a really tough track,” said Trevor. “When I walked it, I thought ‘This is big and tough’ but that maybe it was just me, but I was chatting to Mikey Pender and he said exactly the same and we were proven right as there were only four clears in the first round, but they took 25% through so nine came back for the second round.

“That worked to my disadvantage last week because there were only five clears but I ended up ninth because I had one down in the jump-off – I should have won that as well, really. So this week I was very conscious I didn’t want to do that again. So I didn’t go crazy but I just tried to go clear and put the pressure on and hope those after me would make a mistake and that’s the way it panned out.

“She’s such a cool mare, she just wants to do whatever you ask of her. She just loves to please, she’s the kindest, sweetest mare and she loves her job. She’s a pleasure to ride; she’s so cool I love her – she’s a sweetheart.”

Eight months on from his broken neck

Trevor said his neck was “feeling good” eight months on from the injury.

“I had a stumble on another horse earlier in the day and that jolted my back, but down low, not the injured part,” he said. “But that’s probably just a bit of old age, I’d say! I don’t think it impedes me in any way, so I’m just over the moon with the win.”

Trevor has also enjoyed plenty more good results in the ring in recent weeks with two home-breds, the nine-year-old gelding Kannoon Blue and the year older stallion Kannendro, who are both out of the same mare as his championship horse Highland President.

“Kannoon Blue had basically only jumped 1.30m until I came out here, so he’s had a steep learning curve but he was ready for it,” said Trevor. “He’s already been double clear in a ranking class, he was second in a very good, tough, 1.40m jump-off class on Saturday and he was fifth the first day.

“Kannendro had a long time off as well so he’s just back and he jumped the 1.30ms really well and I have high hopes for him in the near future.

“I’m very lucky, I have a fantastic bunch of horses at the moment and I have some really good ones at home as well. This actually feels like the best string of horses I’ve ever had. So I just need to keep myself sound and healthy, keep the horses sound and healthy, and have a bit of fun!”

Trevor will team up with Highland President once again for forthcoming Irish team call-ups in the Nations Cup of Sharjah and the Longines League of Nations in Abu Dhabi.

“[Chef d’equipe] Michael Blake has put his faith in me so I’m very pleased and honoured to get the call-up again so soon after coming back,” said Trevor. “I’m very grateful to everyone for that.”

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Trevor Breen reflects on the ‘first fall I’ve not walked away from’, saying ‘it’s not been the year I planned…’

Jennifer Donald — Sun, 03 Nov 2024 16:30:32 +0000

“It’s not been the year I planned,” sums up Trevor Breen in episode 158 of The Horse & Hound Podcast, in partnership with STX-UK – the official UK importer of Stephex horseboxes. “But that’s showjumping for you.”

The Irish showjumper has made a remarkable recovery after suffering a broken and dislocated neck and back in a fall in Hamburg in May, just weeks ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Trevor is now back in the saddle and he made a welcome return to the showjumping ring recently, but it’s been a tough journey for him and his family.

“I hit the ground head first, which crushed my spine and did the damage,” says Trevor of the fall which came at an oxer during the Hamburg grand prix on Highland President. “It wouldn’t even rate in the top 10 falls in my career but it’s the first fall I’ve not got up and walked away from.”

Fortunately for Trevor, he immediately received first-rate medical care in the ring, before being whisked to hospital where he was later operated on.

“Huge credit to the Hamburg team,” reflects a very grateful Trevor, who was initially told he may never ride again. “I’m the type of person who deals with whatever is in front of me so I was thinking, ‘OK, so if I can’t ride again, what does my life look like?’”

Trevor Breen: looking forward to jumping at the top level again

Defying the odds however, Trevor was walking within days and was able to return home inside two weeks to continue his recuperation.

“I slept a lot – they say you heal best when you’re sleeping, so that was a positive thing,” says Trevor, who also took to walking a lot – both day and night – until he felt ready to return to the saddle.

His choice of horse was always going to be his beloved home-bred Archie, aka Highland President, with whom Trevor won team silver at the 2023 European Showjumping Championships in Milan.

“I wouldn’t get off him – I jumped a couple of cavaletti – it just felt good!” says Trevor.

There’s now plenty for the dual Hickstead Derby winner to be excited about, with trips to Spain followed by Dubai imminent and some exciting young horses stepping up.

“There are some brilliant shows out there in Dubai, but I love playing golf as well and I haven’t swung a golf club since the accident, so hopefully I can go back to that too!” says Trevor, who will be accompanied by wife and fellow showjumper Caroline Breen.

Hear Trevor Breen talk more about his fall, his remarkable recovery and his planned comeback to the sport’s top level by tuning in to episode 158 of The Horse & Hound Podcast, in partnership with STX-UK, or search “The Horse & Hound Podcast” in your favourite podcast app.

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The Horse & Hound Podcast 158: top showjumper Trevor Breen on his comeback from serious injury

Gemma Redrup — Thu, 31 Oct 2024 06:45:07 +0000

On our 158th episode of The Horse & Hound Podcast, in partnership with STX-UK – the official UK importer of Stephex horseboxes, we speak to British-based Irish showjumper Trevor Breen. He talks about his comeback from a serious fall in the Hamburg grand prix May 2024 where he fractured and dislocated bones in his neck and back. We hope you will enjoy listening.

Episode 158 of our popular audio service The Horse & Hound Podcast, in partnership with STX-UK – the official UK importer of Stephex horseboxes, is now live.

Each episode is available for H&H fans to listen to via your favourite podcast app, as well as here on the website. Search for “The Horse & Hound Podcast” in your preferred podcast app and click subscribe to be notified about each new episode.

View all episodes of The Horse & Hound Podcast

“I hit the ground head first and crushed my spine, which did the damage. It wouldn’t even appear in a list of the top 10 falls I’ve had in my career, but it’s the first fall I’ve had where I haven’t got up and walked away from it” – Trevor Breen on the serious fall he sustained earlier this year

We would love to hear your feedback on all our podcasts, so please do send your thoughts to pippa.roome@futurenet.com

Horse & Hound Podcast: episode 158

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‘Like I was never out of the saddle’: medal-winner riding again four months after serious fall

Eleanor Jones — Mon, 09 Sep 2024 12:21:05 +0000

Irish medal-winning showjumper Trevor Breen has been back on board his superstar Highland President and feeling good, four months after a serious fall.

Trevor fractured his lower neck and back in the fall in the grand prix of Hamburg on 11 May, and underwent surgery on the most serious break. But he has been back in the saddle – and he told H&H it was as if he had never been out of it.

“It felt unbelievable – but very normal, like I was never off; I don’t know how to explain it,” he said. “I’m just going to ease myself into it. I’ve ridden for four days now, only one horse each day. Highland President is the only one I’ve ridden, and it feels very good.”

Trevor said for the first couple of months after his fall, he knew there was no way he could ride.

“I knew my body wasn’t right,” he said. “For the last month or so, I’ve felt I could but I listened to the doctors – funnily enough, they know what they’re talking about! – and they told me to wait, so I did. And hopefully, I’ll reap the benefits of not rushing it.”

Trevor said he will be following the doctors’ advice to take things easy as he gets riding fit again.

“In a couple of months, hopefully it’ll be in the rear-view mirror and business as usual,” he said.

Trevor was on the Irish team that won silver at last year’s Europeans with the home-bred Highland President – and he hopes there will be “plenty more to come”. The horse was sold to Cian O’Connor last year but came back in March.

“It was eight months, which is the only time he’s ever been away and it was lovely to have him home,” said Trevor, adding that the 12-year-old gelding was happy to be back.

“1,000%, he knew he was back home,” he said. “I went out to unload him, opened up the truck and he looked at me a bit surprised. Then he was cuddling straight into me.

“He came off the truck and stopped halfway down the ramp for about 10 seconds. He looked around, soaked it all in, then dragged me straight to his stable. I could have let him loose; he knew exactly where he was going.”

Trevor added that the first doctor to see him after his fall thought he might not ride again but the others he saw agreed he would come back.

“I was very lucky that where I was there were amazing facilities,” he said. “If you were to choose where you had to do something like that, it was one of the best places to do it!”

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Top showjumper can return to UK to continue recovery after bad fall

Eleanor Jones — Fri, 17 May 2024 17:02:53 +0000

Trevor Breen will not have to undergo another operation, and will be able to come home to the UK next week, his family has announced.

The Breens gave an official update on the condition of the Irish showjumper, who sustained three fractures of his lower neck and back in a fall during the Hamburg grand prix last weekend (11 May).

Trevor and his family home-bred European Championships ride Highland President had a bad fall at an oxer in the CSI5* class. H&H reported on Monday that Trevor had had an operation to stabilise the worst fracture and that he would need further surgery.

But today, his family said: “After meeting with his team of surgeons in Hamburg, all seven doctors unanimously agreed that the next surgery was unnecessary for his healing process.

“Trevor can return home to England early next week and start rehab. As soon as his fractures fully heal, he can get back in the saddle, which we hope will be within three months.

“For now, Trevor has his neck brace off, and he’s walking around the hospital by himself—so much so that [his wife] Caroline keeps having to find where he is.”

Caroline told H&H on Monday that Trevor was put in an induced coma after the fall, and was then transferred to a top spinal surgery unit in Hamburg. Doctors originally said he may not be able to ride or walk again, but his prognosis is now much brighter.

“It’s a long road ahead and we have a long way to go, but if everything continues to go as it’s going now, it’s an amazing prognosis,” Caroline said at the time.

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(Image credit: creditUnknown)

‘A long road ahead but we’ve had so much support’: update on Trevor Breen after fall left him ‘millimetres from dying’

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

‘It was an uphill task, but I’m so proud’: sensational silver for Ireland at European Showjumping Championships

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

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‘A long road ahead but we’ve had so much support’: update on Trevor Breen after fall left him ‘millimetres from dying’

Jennifer Donald — Tue, 14 May 2024 14:24:44 +0000

Irish showjumper Trevor Breen is undergoing further surgery for three fractures of the lower neck and back incurred in a fall during the grand prix at Hamburg, Germany, on Saturday (11 May).

Trevor’s wife Caroline Breen told Horse & Hound today (14 May) that he has undergone surgery to stabilise the most serious fracture and there has been a much more positive prognosis after a worrying few days, but “there’s still a long road ahead”.

Dual Hickstead Derby winner Trevor Breen had been riding his family home-bred Highland President in the first round of Saturday’s 1.60m five-star Longines grand prix of Hamburg when they had a heavy fall at an oxer. Screens were quickly assembled round Trevor and he was attended to at the scene for half an hour.

Immediate medical attention crucial after Trevor Breen’s fall

Caroline says the immediate on-site medical attention proved crucial and she is hugely grateful to Hamburg show organiser Volker Wulff and his medical team, led by a leading on-site consultant.

“They were phenomenal,” said Caroline, who had been watching ringside when the fall happened. “They knew straight away that he had a neurological fracture from doing tests on him on the floor. I can’t thank them enough for saving him – he was just millimetres away from dying from a severed spinal cord.”

Trevor was taken straight to hospital and put in an induced coma but he has since been transferred to a top spinal surgery unit in Hamburg, where he has already undergone one operation. Having originally said Trevor may not be able to ride or walk again, doctors say the prognosis is now much brighter.

“The top orthopaedic surgeon in the hospital has been my point of contact the whole way through, which is amazing,” said Caroline. “He has three fractures in the lower neck and back and a lot of dislocations. The major fracture has been repaired, the spinal cord has been saved; he has no paralysis and he’ll be able to walk and ride again at some point.

“He’s having an MRI scan now to see if they need to fix anything else, but he’ll definitely need one more operation as they continue to stabilise the first fracture – first they had to go in the front, now they have to go in from behind.

“He’s just sat up for the first time with a massive team of physios, he’s talking, and within a week of the next operation, he’ll be flown home with me and that’s when he’ll start his rehab to get him up and about at home.

“He met the consultant this morning and he showed him the X-rays and scans and had a really long chat with him about the future, so he’s in a much better place now than he was yesterday anyway.

“It’s a long road ahead and we have a long way to go, but if everything continues to go as it’s going now, it’s an amazing prognosis.”

An update on Highland President

Caroline also said that 12-year-old Highland President, with whom European team silver medallist Trevor was recently reunited after a spell with Cian O’Connor, is back home and being attended to by their vet, but will be “absolutely fine”.

“He only had a superficial cut with a few stitches,” she said.

“I woke up this morning and had 436 unread messages; I’m replying to everyone, but all the offers that have come from people in the equestrian community are just unbelievable. We’re very blessed and very thankful for all the good wishes, and so grateful to the show organisers and what they’ve done to help us, we’ve had so much support – everyone in the medical teams in Hamburg has been phenomenal. I can’t thank them enough.”

Huge-striding, ‘playful’ 17.2hh gelding lands Royal Windsor’s opening five-star: ‘I wasn’t expecting that’

Jennifer Donald — Fri, 03 May 2024 14:19:57 +0000

Royal Windsor Horse Show’s opening CSI5* showjumping class on Friday (3 May) was won in impressive style by Ireland’s Shane Breen with 17.2hh gelding Cato Boy.

As torrential rain hit the Berkshire showground during the two-phase Pearl Stakes, Shane used the 10-year-old’s ground-devouring stride to edge a 0.03sec advantage over nippy Matt Sampson and MGH Candy Girl, who had to settle for the runner-up spot. Third went to Italy’s Lorenzo De Luca on Poden Farms’ stallion Cash Du Plessis.

“I wasn’t expecting that at all,” said Shane. “I watched Matt Sampson’s round and Cato has such a big stride, you can leave out strides on him, but I wasn’t expecting to beat Matt.

“The seven strides to the last fence was long enough, but the great thing about this horse is that when you commit, he commits with you – he never thinks ‘Oh no, this is too far’ and then not actually take you there. He’s lovely.”

Cato Boy: in the genes

Nikki Rutter Giaponne’s 10-year-old by Commissario, out of Bockmann’s Lord Pezi mare Lady Gaga, is a full brother to Martin Fuchs’ prolific winner, the year older Commissar Pezi, but Shane describes the equine brothers as “totally different”.

“Cato Boy arrived in Dubai as a three-year-old and he was shown to his owner Nikki and he was absolutely the wrong horse for her to buy just because he was far too big, but she absolutely fell in love with him,” explained Shane.

“I suggested she send him to my brother Trevor, so he produced him as a six- and seven-year-old. Then I bought out half from Nikki so we owned him together and he moved from Trevor to my yard two years ago and I’ve been trying to keep producing him since.

“He’s a lovely character, he’s a bit playful and he bounces around with me sometimes, but it’s nice that he’s enjoying himself,” said Shane.

“I had Cato Boy in Arezzo for three weeks, he jumped very well down there. He’s in great form this year. He’s 10 now and he’s maturing, he’s giving me a really good feeling.

“He’s very fresh, which is a good way to have them, so now it’s just a case of getting a bit more experience in a few more rings, just to get him crafty in the ring.

“It’s great to be here in Windsor, it’s a fantastic show. To open our account with a win is always good, we just have to hope for a couple more wins!”

‘It was an uphill task, but I’m so proud’: sensational silver for Ireland at European Showjumping Championships

Jennifer Donald — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 17:02:37 +0000

Ireland have delivered an outstanding team performance to win the silver medal at the European Showjumping Championships at the San Siro racecourse in Milan, Italy (30 August-3 September).

The Irish squad had come into Friday’s medal decider in fourth position, less than a penalty behind leaders Germany. But in an afternoon of extreme highs and lows, their key rivals Switzerland and Germany dropped away – the latter after the shock withdrawal of Marcus Ehning and Stargold – and Ireland held their nerve to finish second to gold medal-winners Sweden, with Austria chasing them home in third.

“I’m not really surprised to find ourselves on the podium,” said Team Ireland’s chef d’equipe Michael Blake with a smile. “Obviously, I knew we had an uphill task. We had one or two changes coming into these championships, but I suppose one thing we’re most proud of is that we could make two, three, four or even five changes to our team – we have a lot of strength in Ireland.

“We’ve used in excess of 30 riders on the five-star Nations Cup shows this year and I think that’s phenomenal. I’m so proud to be able to be involved with people that are that good and love the sport that much. And, you know, they really put the country first – they make my job really easy. OK, sometimes it’s a bit of a headache, you know, with a lot of people vying to get on teams. But that’s a good thing.”

European Showjumping Championships: “The future looks good for Ireland”

The Irish quartet consisted of Michael Duffy (Cinca 3), Trevor Breen on Highland President and Shane Sweetnam riding James Kann Cruz with Eoin McMahon as anchorman on Mila. They completed on a team score of 19, behind champions Sweden on 9.51pen, and just ahead of surprise bronze medallists Austria.

Shane Sweetnam was part of Ireland’s gold medal-winning team at the 2017 European Showjumping Championships, “As the Swedish riders will remember well!” he joked.

“But they’ve been going great guns since. This is special – I was talking to [Irish Olympian] Gerry Mullins last week and I was just saying that the first medal is sometimes a career highlight, especially for Irish riders. So to now get two medals is special. Then the way the younger riders are coming on, with Eoin, Michael and this is Trevor’s first championship, and there’s such depth. Then we’ve won with the juniors, the young riders, the ponies this year, so the future looks good for us. World domination isn’t too far away!”

Team Ireland: “Great team spirit, all the lads got stuck in”

Trevor Breen agreed that competing at these championships, particularly on his home-bred Highland President, was “very special”.

“It’s my first championship at any level so it was a big thing for me to get the nod from Michael Blake,” said Trevor. “We’ve had really great team spirit – these are a great bunch of lads and we all got stuck in as best we could.”

For Eoin McMahon, who only teamed up with Ludger Beerbaum’s great mare Mila earlier this year, this championship was unexpected.

“Everything was a bit of a surprise, a bonus – it’s starting to come together now,” said Eoin, who is based in Riesenbeck with the legendary German rider. “To get a silver medal is really special.”

Michael Duffy and Cinca 3, who have jumped clear throughout these championships, are currently in the individual bronze medal position going into Sunday’s final medal decider.

Horse & Hound has a team of reporters covering all the European showjumping action. To keep reading on our website after five articles, readers will need to buy a subscription. Visit horseandhound.co.uk/join to buy a Horse & Hound website unlimited subscription or, for great value, visit magazinesdirect.com for a combined magazine and website subscription. If you are already a magazine subscriber, the cost to upgrade your subscription to include full website access is minimal – call 0330 333 1113 to find out more.

‘Down to a toss of the coin’: Ireland within a penalty of gold at showjumping Europeans

Jennifer Donald — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 16:43:41 +0000

Ireland go into the team final of the European Showjumping Championships at the San Siro racecourse in Milan, Italy (30 August-3 September), just 0.69pen behind leaders Germany after four brilliant performances from the Irish riders on day two of the competition.

Ireland finished the day in fourth position, but it is so tight at the top of the team leaderboard, that less than one point separates the top four teams headed by Germany, Sweden and Switzerland.

Michael Duffy and Cinca 3 opened proceedings for the Irish squad with a solid clear, which also kept them in the hunt for the individual medals.

“It’s easy to be confident on a good horse – anyone can be confident on a good horse,” he said modestly of the 14-year-old mare who was previously ridden by Great Britain’s Scarlett Charles but had previously gone to the Tokyo Olympics with New Zealand’s Daniel Meech.

Ireland’s second combination of Trevor Breen and his home-bred Highland President produced an eight-fault round, which would be the team’s drop score, over a testing track set by Uliano Vezzani.

“We had a fantastic start so I’m absolutely gutted to have two down,” said Trevor. “I was just a tiny bit too far off the oxer after the water. We talked about it and I thought it was a bit short for six, but it didn’t ride that way for me. We were just a bit too far off it and he clipped the back rail. Then the line to the last fence was very short for us but my horse is very responsive, he waited, and then I put a bit of leg on and he had the front pole. I’m just gutted because that didn’t feel like an eight fault round to me, he jumped unbelievably.”

European Showjumping Championships: “We’re feeling very positive”

Shane Sweetnam and the talented 10-year-old James Kann Cruz followed by posting another zero score for Team Ireland.

“He jumped great – it’s a very tricky course that Uliano has built, very technical, very short down that line coming home. But it’s more technical than killer, and big,” said Shane. “We’re feeling very positive and everybody’s jumping well, but you have to take it round by round and it’s still a long way till tomorrow evening. My mum will be at mass tomorrow morning and hopefully she’ll say a few prayers for us – we always need a bit of luck.”

Eoin McMahon and Ludger Beerbaum’s mare Mila just toppled one rail to add four faults to Ireland’s total score, leaving Ireland snapping at the heels of the podium-placed nations ahead of Friday’s final decider between the top 10 teams, which also includes Great Britain.

“I thought everything was going well and I just got a bit stuck in that corner,” explained Eoin. “She barely breathed on the the back rail, but she jumped her heart out. It was extremely tough – I didn’t expect it to be as big or as technical today, I thought that was maybe a course more for tomorrow. So it will be interesting to see where he goes with it tomorrow.”

With it being so tight at the top of the leaderboard, Eoin added: “I’d have been more confident if I’d been clear! But there’s the toss of the coin between first and fourth.”

Michael Duffy said: “We need three clears tomorrow, that’s for sure.”

‘A great finish’: Ireland’s medal chances fortified on day one of European Showjumping Championships

Jennifer Donald — Wed, 30 Aug 2023 17:35:30 +0000

Team Ireland have made an assertive start to the European Showjumping Championships at the San Siro racecourse in Milan, Italy (30 August-3 September), completing day one in fourth position behind early leaders Sweden.

Ireland’s pathfinder Michael Duffy with Cinca 3 described Uliano Vezzani’s track, over footing that some riders weren’t happy with, as “jumping tough”. But this super partnership set the bar with a clear in 76.34sec.

“It’s a funny old course. The ground is very mediocre,” said Michael. “So it’s catching a good few faults and it probably rides bigger than it is. But it’s a championship, so that’s to be expected.

“I was maybe half a second slower than I wanted to be, but it’s jumping tough. I thought I’d be further down the leaderboard than I am when I jumped, so I’m happy enough,” said Michael, who finished the day in 19th place individually.

“My mare always gets better for jumping more. I was first in, so I was going to try to be a bit quicker than most but not do anything scary. We only bought her in January, but she’s 14 and she’s been to the Olympics, so she’s no stranger to these courses and these championships.”

Michael Duffy and Cinca 3 in action for Ireland at the European Championships in Milan, Italy. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

European Showjumping Championships: “Hopefully we can contribute to a team medal this week”

Trevor Breen and his home-bred Highland President followed with a lovely clear, but in a slower time, which would end up as the team’s drop score, before a quick four-fault round converted into a competitive 77.72sec and a 25th place individually for Shane Sweetnam riding the exciting James Kann Cruz.

“There’s still a long way to go and my horse was in very good shape, so fingers crossed for tomorrow,” said US-based Shane of the Irish-bred son of Kannan x Cruising. “He’s a great horse – he’s still learning, obviously, and this is his first championship. So hopefully we learn a lot about each other. But he always comes out jumping, trying his best. He loves his job.

“Hopefully, we can contribute to the team and maybe get a team medal this week and then see where we’re at. He’s very talented. He’s got a big presence about him, he’s big and grey and a lively fellow. So he really does stand out. When he’s working with you, he’s a nice ride, but he’s all energy!”

Shane Sweetnam and James Kann Cruz competing for Ireland at the European Championships in Milan, Italy. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Team Ireland, led by chef d’equipe Michael Blake, concluded the first qualifier for team and individual athletes at the European Showjumping Championships with a smashing clear from a relatively new combination, Eoin McMahon riding Ludger Beerbaum’s great mare Mila. They are one of three combinations in action at the European Showjumping Championships from the world-famous Ludger Beerbaum stables.

“There was no plan B or C, everything was plan A,” reflected 27-year-old Eoin, who is eighth in the individual standings. “We’re getting there – we had a couple of a couple of teething problems, just while we were getting to know each other… she’s a mare, she has a lot of blood! But she’s brilliant, I’m delighted and that’s a great way to finish the day.”

Sweden are currently in the gold medal position, just a fraction ahead of Switzerland with Germany currently in third. Great Britain finished day one in 1oth position.

Ireland’s individual contender Denis Lynch and Vistogrand are also helping to fly the Irish flag in 23rd position.

‘It’s special, romantic even’: what it means to jump a home-bred at a major championship

Jennifer Donald — Wed, 30 Aug 2023 15:16:30 +0000

Ireland’s second team rider Trevor Breen produced a smart clear on his championship debut riding his home-bred Highland President at the European Showjumping Championships at the San Siro racecourse in Milan, Italy (30 August-3 September).

The Sussex-based Irishman described the accomplishment as “very special”.

The in-form duo put a dramatic slip behind them to post a powerful clear in 80.05sec to keep Ireland in the hunt for a medal.

“It’s always nice to get underway with a clear so we’re off and running now and hopefully we can keep it up,” said Trevor, who followed pathfinder Michael Duffy’s clear on Cinca 3. “We want to keep in there on the hunt for a medal. So that was a super start.

“I’d just like to have been a little quicker – I just had a slip turning back to the wall, which obviously lost a bit of time, probably a second. It made me go one extra stride to the water, which wasn’t the plan. So I probably was around a couple of seconds slower than I planned to be.

“But listen, I’m clear, and the horse feels great so we’ll take that to the next day.”

From home-bred to European Showjumping Championships

Highland President is an 11-year-old gelding by Clinton out of a Kannan mare and was bred by the parents of Trevor’s wife Caroline, Heather and Ian Black.

“We bred him all those years ago so you could say I know him pretty well!” said Trevor, who actually found his team-mate Denis Lynch’s ride Vistogrand for his brother Shane Breen.

“It’s pretty special, quite romantic even, to get a horse that you’ve bred all the way to the championship. But he’s been a brilliant horse – he is by Clinton, so he can be a little bit strong at times. But you know when he gets to the jump that he is ultra careful and has loads of scope. So it’s a pleasure to ride him.

“I took him as a nine-year-old to Vilamoura with a view that we’d done all the two-stars in England and I’d tested him up to that level. With Brexit it’s so expensive to travel now. He stepped up the best of all my horses and jumped his first Nations Cup there and he was double clear and we won.

“I always had high hopes for him and I carefully produced him along the way, but I always had something like this earmarked for him. It’s very special.”

The pair finished the day in 35th position individually behind leader Jens Fredricson, while the Irish team look formidable in fourth place behind Sweden.

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Three greys and a wealth of talent: meet Team Ireland’s horses, riders and grooms for the European Showjumping Championships

Jennifer Donald — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 14:20:37 +0000

An elite squad of five riders has been selected to represent Ireland at next week’s FEI European Showjumping Championships in Milan, Italy (30 August-3 September), hoping to regain the glorious team gold medal won in 2017. So who has chef d’equipe Michael Blake picked for the Irish team at the European Showjumping Championships 2023?

Irish team at the European Showjumping Championships

Denis Lynch and Vistogrand

The senior member of Team Ireland’s squad is 47-year-old Denis Lynch riding the 10-year-old British-bred Vistogrand. The Fantaland x Mr Visto stallion is now owned by Parco Sport Horses EST, but was bred and produced by Carron Nicol through his early years. Denis bought Vistogrand from previous rider Shane Breen late last year.

Denis and Vistogrand have been jumping at the top level and helped Ireland secure a historic victory in the Rome Nations Cup earlier this summer. Germany-based Denis was part of the 2017 gold medal-winning squad at the 2017 European Championships.

“Denis is a very experienced member of Irish squads,” says chef d’equipe Michael Blake.

Michael Duffy and Cinca 3

Joining Denis on the squad is Galway-born Michael Duffy, who brings Hibernian Sport Horses’ 14-year-old grey mare Cinca 3. Bred in Germany by Peter Wylde, this experienced daughter of Casall Ask x Carthago jumped at the Tokyo Olympics with New Zealand’s Daniel Meech before Michael started riding her eight months ago. They’ve since been core players in Ireland’s Nations Cup squads, including for the Aga Khan in Dublin.

Michael hails from a showjumping family and competed at Dublin Horse Show in 12.2hhs, going on to become the youngest ever senior national champion in Ireland aged 17 and he won team bronze at the young rider European Championship. He moved to England in 2013 to train with Shane Breen before setting up his stables in West Sussex and he made his senior championship debut in 2021. He regularly competes for GCL squad Rome Gladiators and his groom for this year’s championship is Tristan Gautier.

Michael Duffy even went viral recently thanks to a picture of him and his gelding Jeff Ten Halven clearing the top of the wings in a warm-up arena.

Eoin McMahon and Mila

Uber-talented rising star Eoin McMahon, 27, has been really catching the eye as stable jockey for the Ludger Beerbaum stables. Since the legendary German rider announced his retirement earlier this year, Eoin has taken the reins permanently on his multi grand prix-winning mare, the 11-year-old Mila (Monte Bellini x Linton). Mila was bred by the Schockemohle stables and is now owned by the Ludger Beerbaum Stables. Eoin made his first appearance on the championship stage on his home soil at Riesenbeck, Germany, in 2021, finishing a fantastic eighth individually. He’s looking set to go even better this time around after being selected once again for the Irish team at the European Showjumping Championships 2023.

“Mila is a bit special,” describes Eoin. “You have to jump her in the ring to experience her quality. Some horses are super flashy at home then not so good at shows, whereas she doesn’t show a lot at home but she’s clever, she knows when she’s competing and then it’s like riding a completely different animal. I’ve never had a horse as good as her – it’s a privilege to be riding her.”

Mila is looked after by British groom Heather Field, who describes the grey mare as an “independent woman, who likes to do her own thing”. “For such a quirky horse, she’s surprisingly easy travelling and flying, then at shows, she knows it’s her chill time in the stable, that’s her cuddle time,” reveals Heather. “But as soon as she’s out, she knows it’s time for business.”

Shane Sweetnam and James Kann Cruz have been picked for the Irish team at the European Showjumping Championships 2023 in Milan, Italy. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Shane Sweetnam and James Kann Cruz

One of the senior members of the Irish pack is 42-year-old Shane Sweetnam, who was part of the gold medal-winning Irish team at the 2017 European Showjumping Championships and he also rode at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. At this year’s European Showjumping Championships in Milan, he rides the third of Ireland’s grey horses, the 10-year-old James Kann Cruz. Bred in Ireland by Patrick Connolly by Kannan out of a Cruising mare, the gelding is one of the most exciting horses on the global showjumping circuit right now, displaying immense scope and carefulness.

US-based Shane has been carefully producing the Gizmo Partners-owned gelding, who is looked after by Maria Israelsson and Seamus McKeever, for the past 18 months. They have jumped a string of smart clears in Nations Cup, including helping Team Ireland lift the Aga Khan trophy in 2022, and most recently finishing runner-up in the five-star grand prix of Dinard as well as jumping clear in Ireland’s defence of the Aga Khan trophy in the Dublin Nations Cup.

Certainly another pair to have on your radar at this year’s championships.

Trevor Breen and Highland President

Receiving a relatively late call-up to the Irish team for the European Showjumping Championships was West Sussex-based Trevor Breen, 44, with the family’s brilliant home-bred 11-year-old gelding Highland President (Clinton x Kannan), owned by his mother-in-law Heather Black. This pair have plenty of five-star form, including two top-five grand prix placings recently and they were part of Ireland’s second place team in the Rotterdam Nations Cup earlier this year, as well as enjoying plenty of success on home soil.

“Archie”, as he is known at home, is expertly looked after and beautifully turned out by groom Katie King. Ireland’s chef d’equipe Michael Blake picked Trevor and Highland President as non-travelling reserve for last year’s World Championships, describing them as “a promising pairing for the future, a very exciting horse”.

“A lot of blood, sweat and tears have gone into this horse,” Trevor explained of the big bay. “He’s quite strong, but he’s getting better and more consistent all the time.”

So will Ireland be on the podium?

Michael Blake sums up his squad’s chances by saying: “I’m excited – it will obviously be very tough. 16 strong teams line up, but we are very strong ourselves and I’m hoping for a good showing.”

If you’re wondering how to watch the European Showjumping Championships 2023, they take place in Milan, Italy, from Wednesday 30 August to Sunday 3 September and you can follow all the action online with Horse & Hound, with the full report and more exclusive insights and interviews in the magazine, which hits the shops on Thursday 7 September.

The 2023 Hickstead Derby entries: meet this year’s runners and riders

Jennifer Donald — Sun, 25 Jun 2023 06:59:19 +0000

At 2.45pm on Sunday, 25 June, the world famous Al Shira’aa Hickstead Derby kicks off in front of a global audience, so who are the names to look out for among this year’s Hickstead Derby entries?

From reigning champion of Hickstead, Shane Breen, to four-time winner William Funnell, a bunch of intrepid first-timers and a trio of Olympic eventers, the field of 27 entries representing four nations for the 2023 Hickstead Derby really is an eclectic cross-section of the equestrian world.

Here is your guide to the 2023 Al Shira’aa Hickstead Derby entries.

HICKSTEAD DERBY ENTRIES

1. Carlos Mota Ribas and Night Secret Z (BRAZIL)

The unenviable task of pathfinder for the Al Shira’aa Derby this year falls to this Brazilian rider and the 11-year-old Non Stop stallion. However, the role couldn’t be in better hands as Carlos is a much-loved Hickstead regular, finishing equal second with four faults in the class last year. Night Secret has yet to prove himself in the main ring at Hickstead but completed the Hamburg Derby on eight faults. Never underestimate this Brazilian!

2. Henry Turrell and Rocco (GBR)

The local rider has contested the speed Derby several times but in preparation for stepping up to the big one for the first time this year, Henry and his home-bred 12-year-old Rocco (Cardento x Numero Uno) took in some classes in Hamburg last month and jumped round the Derby trial for 20 faults. What a special moment it will be to contest this world famous class for the first time on a horse he’s bred and produced himself.

3. David Simpson and Flashback VL (IRL)

This two-time Queen Elizabeth II Cup-winning rider brings two horses through for this year’s Hickstead Derby, coming out first on this relatively new ride with whom the locally based Irish team rider had 12 faults in the Derby trial at Hickstead on Friday. He has previously won a Derby trial and his best Derby finish was fourth in 2013 with the brilliant Rolo Tomasi. He has ridden round Hamburg, too, so is an expert pilot for the vast expanse of the Hickstead turf.

4. Sebastian Hughes and Colorado Volo (GBR)

One of the best stories in the class, this will be Seb’s first time riding in the Hickstead Derby and he will be on board the distinctive white-faced chestnut gelding “Chief”, who was bought as a “gangly” five-year-old with a view to selling him, but this “one man and his horse” duo have gone on to jump the dizzying heights of puissances at five-star shows, and now the legendary Derby track awaits them.

“Just to have a horse that would be able to do the Derby is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” he says.

5. Stephan Dubsky and C The Stars (IRL)

This combination caught the eye when finishing fifth in the Hamburg Derby last month with just four faults. The Germany-based Irishman is a former international eventer and makes his Hickstead debut this year with this exciting nine-year-old.

6. Ryan Lockwood and Over The Top Van Den Haagakkers (GBR)

This 23-year-old rider is another British showjumper making his Hickstead debut this year and extraordinarily had only jumped one class, the area trial at Wellington last week, on Elliott Rowe’s nine-year-old before bringing him to West Sussex. The horse jumped round last year’s speed Derby with Elliott, while Ryan steered him home with eight faults in Friday’s Derby trial.

7. William Funnell and Equine America Billy Diamo (GBR)

This rider needs no introduction to Hickstead Derby followers; he’s one of an elite quintet of riders to have lifted the trophy four times and will be bidding for a record fifth victory with two ride – the first of which is his 18hh 13-year-old home-bred, who finished 11th last year.

“Last year was Equine America Billy Diamo’s first time round and it’s always good to get that first one under your belt,” says William. “Hopefully he’ll have grown from that and this year I’ve really focused on doing the right things to produce him for Sunday.“

Shane Breen and Can Ya Makan celebrating success in 2022 – they are among the Hickstead Derby entries again this year (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

8. Shane Breen and Scarteen (IRL)

Hickstead-based Irishman Shane Breen begins the defence of his title with a home-bred 10-year-old, who he sold a half-share of as a five-year-old and only bought back last month. Since taking the reins, Shane and the super grey have been placed in Hamburg and won the La Baule Derby, picking up just four faults in the Derby trial on Friday. This rising star could be a really strong prospect among this year’s Hickstead Derby entries.

“He’s very scopey and careful, so much versatility and such jump; you could put him into whatever you want,” says Shane.

9. Andre Reichmann and Ego De Toxandria Z (BRA)

Hickstead has welcomed this Brazilian rider and nine-year-old gelding for the first time this year and they adapted well to the international ring’s unique obstacles and undulations, finishing with eight faults in the Derby trial. The last Brazilian rider to win the Hickstead Derby was Nelson Pessoa in 1996.

10. Jonathan Smyth and Premier Spirit (IRL)

Fresh from a grand prix runner-up position at Bolesworth last week, this 25-year-old Irish rider warmed up for Hickstead with a puissance third on this 10-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding who has plenty of scope. They completed the Derby trial on 36 faults.

11. Tim Gredley and Gentlemen VH Veldhof (GBR)

British showjumping team regular Tim Gredley made a return to the Hickstead Derby in 2022 for the first time in 17 years and returns for the second year in succession with the same horse, the 17-year-old Gentlemen, who was a previous Derby ride for Michael Whitaker. The last British winner of the Hickstead Derby was in 2018, can Tim make amends?

12. Paul Sims and Dream Roller (GBR)

This former eventer has ridden round Badminton but this will be his first attempt at the Devil’s Dyke, bank and open water in Hickstead’s international arena. His 12-year-old gelding stepped up to five-star level in the UAE with Paul’s friend Joe Whitaker earlier this year but has since returned to Paul and the pair posted an impressive eight-fault round in Friday’s Derby trial

13. Carlos Mota Ribas and Juan Van’t Arkelhof (BRA)

The Brazilian is back with his second ride, a 14-year-old gelding who is making his Derby debut but who looked right at home in the Derby trial, picking up just four faults.

14. Dermott Lennon and Gelvins Touch (IRL)

Another notable Irish rider bidding to lift the Boomerang trophy this year is 2022 world champion Dermott, who has had several runner-up places in the Derby without lifting the silverware. The 17-year-old Gelvins Touch (Touchdown x Diamond Lad) hasn’t jumped internationally since last year’s Hickstead Derby where the pair just had four faults at the rails at the bottom of the bank to finish equal second. It would be a lovely story if this veteran could take top honours this year.

15. Trevor Breen and Gonzalo (IRL)

Trevor is the younger brother of Shane Breen and, two days after representing Ireland in the Nations Cup in Rotterdam, Trevor has qualified this 12-year-old former eventer, with whom he finished fourth in the King George V Gold Cup at the Royal International last year, for Sunday’s Al Shira’aa Derby.

“He’s such a lovely horse, he’s beautiful to ride and he has a huge heart and fights for you, so he makes my life a bit easier,” says Trevor.

If anyone can give Shane a good run for his money, it’s most certainly brother Trevor, who has won the Hickstead Derby twice, in 2014 and 2015.

16. William Whitaker and Flamboyant III (GBR)

Another former winner, with Glenavadra Brilliant in 2016, and one of two Whitakers in the field. Flamboyant III, a 13-year-old Cardento gelding, was a catch ride for William in last year’s Hickstead Derby when owner Elliott Smith broke his leg and the pair have been jumping at the top level since. They jumped an eye-catching four-fault round in Friday’s Derby trial and look bang on target for their second Derby tilt.

17. Daniel McAlinden and Keatingstown Z Wellie Two (IRL)

24-year-old Hickstead Derby debutant Daniel only took the reins on 12-year-old Wellie last month so there are plenty of unknowns. Ger O’Neill rode the gelding in the 2019 Derby but they failed to complete. However, a third place finish in Friday’s Derby trial for Daniel and the Irish-bred does show promise ahead of Sunday.

18. Sammie Jo Coffin and Chaccomo Blue (GBR)

The Cornwall showjumper has enjoyed plenty of success in the Hickstead international arena but brings this 13-year-old gelding for the first time, fresh from a string of good placings on the county circuit. This big-jumping gelding relished the challenge of the Derby trial, just picking up eight faults.

19. Kai Ruder and Cross Keys (GER)

This top German rider may be better known for his eventing successes but in recent years he’s been seen in the showjumping ring and has jumped the Hamburg Derby a handful of times. He makes the journey to Hickstead for the first time this year, bringing his long-time partner, the 18-year-old Cross Keys, a German-bred son of Casall.

20. Gemma Stevens and Envoy Merelsnest Z GBR)

A British eventer this time, Olympian and world championship gold medallist Gemma Stevens (nee Tattersall) no less, who has been combining eventing and showjumping in recent years and was offered the ride on the Brendon Stud’s stallion Envoy Merelsnest Z, or “Dime Bar” as he is known at home, for her debut in this year’s Hickstead Derby.

“I’m not expecting to be troubling the leaders at this stage, but just the fact I’m giving it a go and on a horse I’ve not ridden that much… Why not?” says Gemma.

21. Robert Whitaker and Evert (GBR) **WITHDRAWN**

Could Robert be the 10th Whitaker to win the Hickstead Derby? He and his cousin William are representing the famous showjumping dynasty this year and Robert brings Caroline Blatchford’s 14-year-old Evert, a recent winner in Italy and a horse with an exceptional record in the international ring at Hickstead, as well as in Hamburg with his previous rider Karel Cox. Their fantastic clear round in Friday’s Derby trial put them right up among the favourites for this year’s class.

22. Jordan Coyle and Eristov (IRL)

US-based Irishman Jordan brought the 14-year-old Eristov over for last year’s Derby, where they finished with 12 faults – his first visit to Hickstead since his debut in 2013. Irish riders have won five of the past nine runnings of the Hickstead Derby.

23. Shane Breen and Can Ya Makan (IRL)

The reigning Hickstead Derby champions, who won last year with the sole clear round, are bidding to become the first combination to win back-to-back since William Funnell and Cortaflex Mondriaan in 2008 and 2009. Can Ya Makan is now 17 and Shane has produced him carefully for this day and will go in as red hot favourites.

24. William Funnell and Dublon (GBR)

Four-time winner William Funnell’s second ride Dublon is another lofty chestnut, who he only started riding last month after Barbara Hester’s gelding left Joe Stockdale’s stable. It would be remarkable if this pair won at their first show together.

“With my history in the class it would be lovely to get the fifth one,” says William.

25. David Simpson and Pjotr Van De Kruishoeve (IRL)

The Irishman returns with his second ride, the youngest horse in the class, eight-year-old Pjotr. This low mileage Belgium-bred stallion has been stepping up impressively in recent months and jumped a classy eight-fault round in the Derby trial.

26. Carlos Mota Ribas and Trix (BRA)

This nine-year-old gelding was bred by John Whitaker, ridden by Robert Whitaker and then sold to the Brazilian showjumper two years ago – they were second in last year’s speed Derby then the duo tied for first with former rider Robert (on Evert) as the only two clears in Friday’s Derby trial. Definitely one for the short list.

27. Sandra Auffarth and Nupafeed’s La Vista (GER)The legendary German Olympic eventer has the honour of being the last into the ring for her debut at Hickstead. She and the 14-year-old mare have finished top-three in the Hamburg Derby and appeared to adapt quickly to the Hickstead fences in Friday’s Derby trial. Can Sandra add the Boomerang trophy to her glittering array of silverware, which includes Olympic and world championship eventing gold medlas? It would certainly be an incredible story if she did – and that’s what the Hickstead Derby is all about.

The Al Shira’aa Hickstead Derby is at 2.45pm on Sunday 25 June. Horse & Hound will be bringing you all the stories online as they happen and in next week’s magazine, in the shops Thursday 29 June.

Chestnut mare bucks her way to Derby victory and Ben Maher just beaten by his equine namesake

Jennifer Donald — Mon, 22 May 2023 14:03:24 +0000

With excitement building towards this year’s Hickstead Derby (25 June), all eyes turned to Hamburg at the weekend (17-21 May) for the German equivalent, where a 21-year-old rider wowed with a winning speed Derby-Derby double.

Ben Maher also continued his successful return to top flight sport and this time it was his top mare Dallas Vegas Batilly’s turn to shine. Meanwhile, closer to home, Trevor Breen lifted grand prix silverware. Here is your weekly round-up of international showjumping news and results.

Chestnut mare bucks her way to Derby victory

The quirky 14-year-old Balou’s Erbin jumped the sole double clear under 21-year-old German rider Marvin Jüngel, to win the Hamburg Derby and complete an impressive double for the rider, who also won Saturday’s speed Derby on the nine-year-old Koradina R. His Derby victory came after a two-way jump-off against Denmark’s Caroline Rehoff Pedersen, also 21, riding Calvin 115, who just added a time-fault to a steady jumping clear.

The tail-swishing chestnut mare Balou’s Erbin pinned back her ears for much of the two rounds, kicking up her heels between jumps, but she has an exceptional partnership with her young rider and the pair soared over the Derby fences, including the bank, a double of Irish banks and a vast open water, much to the huge delight of Marvin, who is ranked 1,216th in the world.

“I’m lost for words,” said Marvin, whose mother Sonja owns his winning mare. “It’s her birthday tomorrow so that’s a very good present and we can celebrate well tomorrow.”

The reigning Hickstead Derby victors Shane Breen and Can Ya Makan were jumping superbly until they came unstuck at the double of single poles and elected to retire, but the Irishman enjoyed a string of excellent five-star placings at the show.

Finishing third in the speed Derby was British showjumper Henry Turrell riding Rocco.

Hamburg Derby results

Ben Maher is beaten by his equine namesake

The reigning Olympic champion Ben Maher has made a remarkable return from a serious shoulder injury to the top tier of the sport and, after his brilliant second-place finish with Explosion W in the Rolex grand prix at Royal Windsor last week, it was top new mare Dallas Vegas Batilly’s turn to shine in Hamburg’s Longines grand prix, where they finished second to home hero Gerrit Nieberg and another powerhouse, the big-striding gelding Ben 431.

“I had a good feeling in the first round, so I knew I could take a risk in the jump-off,” said Gerrit, who topped a 12-strong jump-off to claim the €75,000 (£65,200) top prize.

In a successful day for the Maher family, Ben’s wife Sophie had earlier headed a two-phase with her great partner, the 14-year-old Sentimiento LS La Silla.

Third place in Saturday’s grand prix went to a flying performance from Ireland’s Michael Duffy at only his third show on Che Fantastica, who was previously ridden by Germany’s Philipp Weishaupt and bought from Ludger Beerbaum by Hibernia Horses with breeding as the long-term goal.

The other British contenders – Joe Stockdale (Equine America Bingo Du Chateau) and Harry Charles (Romeo 88) – just picked up four faults each in round one.

Longines grand prix results

‘Class act’ thrills on British soil

There was more international showjumping news to come from closer to home. A huge field of 57 came forward for the CSI2* grand prix at Wellington, Hampshire, where Ireland’s Trevor Breen triumphed on 12-year-old “class act” Gonzalo.

“I’m delighted with his performance and grateful for all our support team who make this possible,” he said.

He beat Scott Brash (Hello Vittoria) into the runner-up spot, with Joe Clayton third on Belinda.

CSI2* Wellington grand prix results

You can read more showjumping news, including the full report from Hamburg and CSI2* Wellington in next week’s issue of Horse & Hound.

British grand prix victor needs a scoreboard double-take, grand slam contender stunned and a six-bar flyer

Jennifer Donald — Mon, 13 Mar 2023 18:04:54 +0000

Every once in a while a jump-off leaves you speechless and Sunday’s Rolex grand prix at The Dutch Masters was truly exceptional. The prospect of having another rider continuing their journey for the Rolex Grand Slam of Showjumping is brilliant news for the sport.

Elsewhere, we watched Irish riders clear 1.85m in a Spanish six-bar and win a Dubai grand prix, while Great Britain’s James Smith continued his simply astounding run with grand prix victory on the Sunshine Tour. Here is your weekly round-up of international showjumping news and results.

Fifty shades of scopey

Irish showjumper Ciaran Nallon rode the nine-year-old Fifty Shades Of Grey (pictured, main image) over a 1.85m final fence to win the six-bar on the Andalucia Sunshine Tour. Thirteen combinations lined up but the Irish duo were the only faultless performers after the fourth round. At the show, British rider Matt Sampson also won a ranking class riding the 14-year-old mare Ebolensky.

Andalucia Sunshine Tour six bar results

Breen’s grand prix success

Trevor Breen and the super mare Germaine W sealed a brilliant run in the UAE with victory in the final CSI2* grand prix at the Emirates Equestrian Centre in Dubai. Drawn fourth in the nine-way jump-off, the pair swooped home fastest of the four double clears.

“Germaine has been in super form the whole trip so I’m delighted,” Trevor told H&H. “She did two Nations Cups really well, we finished second in one, third in the other, we capped off the five-star competitions with a third in the grand prix, then she won the two-star grand prix here. I can’t ask for more than that.

“The time allowed was quite tight in round one and there were a few riders clear with time faults, my brother Shane Breen [Can Ya Makan] was one of them, so it was a tough first round. I watched a couple go in the jump-off, but I had my plan and there were a couple of fast guys after me which made me go for it. So I did a couple of leave-out strides from fence one to two and to the last fence, so I think I really nicked it there.”

Trevor describes Mandy Hall’s mare, a five-star winner in Dublin last year, as “a great horse for me”.

“She loved Dubai,” said Trevor, who plans to target Royal Windsor next with Germaine W. “She likes the sun and she just seemed to get better and better out there.”

CSI2* Dubai results

James Smith and Arkuga win the Andalucia Sunshine Tour grand prix (Image credit: creditUnknown)

British grand prix riders are separated by just one hundredth of a second

The CSI4* grand prix on week five of the Andalucia Sunshine Tour resulted in a British one-two, with James Smith (Arkuga) and Karl Robins (Equine America G Camille HBF) separated by just 0.01sec. James admitted he had to look twice at the score board after his round, not least because he thought he’d knocked the first fence down in the nine-way jump-off.

“It was close! Arkuga jumped a bit to the side over the first fence and I half had it in my head that he’d knocked it down, but when I came back round everyone was shouting for me,” James told H&H. “Luckily it worked out – I had to look twice at the clock though because I still wasn’t sure!

“I’m delighted to get a big win, he’s been so consistent,” James added of the Renwicks’ 12-year-old home-bred – by Arko III out of Laura’s multi-winning mare Beluga – who was named “Messi” by their football-loving son, Jack.

“Big thanks to the Renwicks for letting me ride him, he’s naturally fast which makes everything so much easier. That’s probably the biggest grand prix track we’ve jumped so far and he just takes it in his stride. He has a great attitude – he wants to do it.”

Arkuga is looked after by Nikki Park and delighted owner Laura said: “We are so incredibly proud to have bred this superstar who has formed such a brilliant partnership with James over the last few months. Over the moon is an understatement!”

Andalucia Sunshine Tour CSI4* grand prix results

McLain Ward and HH Azur win their second leg of the Rolex Grand Slam at the Dutch Masters (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Ward keeps his Grand Slam dream alive

All roads now lead to Aachen this summer for US showjumper McLain Ward and the outstanding mare HH Azur. They won a second consecutive leg of the Rolex Grand Slam at The Dutch Masters in the Netherlands after one of the sport’s most spectacular jump-offs.

“I am so proud of my team and my horse – and a little proud of myself,” said McLain, who is the first rider since Scott Brash in 2015 to claim two consecutive Majors in the now four-event series. “The Rolex Grand Slam of Showjumping has truly raised the bar of the sport and winning a Major is one of the greatest moments in a rider’s career.”

From a stellar line-up that included eight of the top 10 riders in the world, a mammoth field of 16 jumped clear in round one of Sunday’s Rolex grand prix. The track set by Louis Konickx had championship dimensions but even in round two, these world-class combinations made light work of the challenge.

The jump-off ignited straight away with the opening riders coming out all guns blazing. Drawn fourth, McLain eclipsed the leading time set by Julien Epaillard of France riding Donatello D’Auge, rocketing home in 37.86sec. He had a few anxious moments as Simon Delestre (Cayman Jolly Jumper) scorched round in typical style and the Frenchman was up on the clock, only to hit the final Rolex oxer, dropping them to 10th behind the nine double clears. Less than a second split the top five riders, with Julien taking second and world number one Henrik von Eckermann finishing third on the incomparable King Edward.

McLain had travelled from the US, where he has been competing at Florida’s Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF), for the event and was stunned by the turn of events, which keeps his Rolex Grand Slam dream alive in this, its 10th year.

“I don’t think it has quite sunk in yet – it was a lot of stress having to watch the remaining 12 riders in the jump-off,” said McLain, who picked up a hefty €330,000 (just shy of £292,000) first prize. “The level here is so high and I think later tonight I will realise what we have achieved.”

McLain’s previous success came in the Rolex grand prix of Geneva in December, again with “Annie”.

“She is smarter than everybody else and is truly a queen,” he said. “I think she understands what is happening and really rises to the moment. She loves her job and the partnership that we have created is truly so special.

“She is 17 now, so she does not compete as often any more – instead we just aim her at the most important competitions. She has an incredible physical ability, but what makes her truly stand out is her character. She is a warrior at heart. I use the term ‘Queen’ when referring to her, as she encapsulates every aspect of that term. Two years ago, I thought that it was the end of her career as she had several injuries, but she overcame them. At the beginning of the 2022 season, she was feeling better than ever, and we made the decision to keep competing her and then assess her later on in the season. She ended up having the best year of her career so far.

“As long as she is still in love with the sport and happy, we will continue competing. I love spending time with her, whether that is hacking, training or competing – she is such a brilliant horse.”

Young British superstars Harry Charles (Balou Du Reventon) and Joe Stockdale (Equine America Cacharel) both reached the jump-off for the Rolex grand prix, finishing with eight and 12 faults respectively, and both enjoyed a string of excellent placings throughout this five-star show.

Dutch Masters results

Daniel Bluman and Ladriano Z winning the WEF grand prix. (Image credit: Sportfot)

‘We live to have moments like this’

Daniel Bluman of Israel rode Ladriano Z to victory in the $425,000 Wellington Equestrian Realty CSI5* grand prix during week nine of the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) in Florida, four years after winning the same event in 2019. Shane Sweetnam took second on James Kann Cruz, with Karl Cook third on the 13-year-old mare Kalinka Van’t Zorgvliet.

“I watched Shane’s round and his horse and mine are both big and scopey, so I tried to do the same as him and edge him in a couple places,” said Daniel.

“At this time of the year, you have some of the greatest riders in the world here for the season so it’s very intense. We live to have moments like this where you’re competing against people you really admire and horses you really like. It was just the right group in the jump-off and I was really motivated to win it and when I crossed the timers I had a feeling I had.”

WEF grand prix results

Jad Dana and After Eight winning at WEF. (Image credit: Sportfot)

‘I truly thought I had no chance’: milestone 5* win for Lebanese rider

Lebanese rider Jad Dana and 13-year-old After Eight enjoyed a milestone first five-star win in WEF’s 1.50m classic, beating speedy Irish showjumper Darragh Kenny, who finished second and third with Vancouver Dreams and Chic Chic respectively.

“Even though my mare is very fast, the riders today had so much experience and they are incredibly talented,” said Jad, who trains with US Olympic team gold medallist Leslie Howard. “I truly thought I had no chance. I was happy just to be in the jump-off. This mare tried her heart out for me today.

“She does everything because of her huge heart. I love her so much. I have no words. To win a five-star is absolutely a dream come true.”

Bertram Allen and Pacino Amiro winning at WEF (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Irish success continued at WEF when Bertram Allen and Aiden McGrory’s Pacino Amiro triumphed in Thursday’s CSI5* Challenge Cup. He was up against countryman Darragh Kenny on Vlock Show Stables’ Chic Chic and US rider Schuyler Riley (Robin De Ponthual) in a three-way jump-off and, from second draw, posted the winning time of 36.94sec.

“I’ve never seen a WEF Challenge here where only three were clear in the first round, so it was a much more tactical jump-off than normal,” said Bertram. “It was a huge advantage going after Darragh because I saw one or two places in his jump-off where I could get the better of him if I left the rails up.”

WEF results

Trevor Breen leaves rivals – including his brother — floundering in his wake at London Horse Show

Polly Bryan — Fri, 16 Dec 2022 19:42:43 +0000

Planning to take a stride out to the last paid off for Ireland’s Trevor Breen, as he delivered a superb win in the Christmas Pudding Speed Stakes at the London International Horse Show. Riding the eight-year-old mare Jicarla T (Caretino Gold x Numero Uno), Trevor came home in 52.1sec, 0.64sec clear of Britain’s John Whitaker and Green Grass, by Luidam.

“I think where I won it was I went six strides to the last, instead of seven; I probably did the same as everyone else everywhere else,” said Trevor. “She has a huge stride, for a small mare, so I thought I could go six there and I got it easy, and that was the difference.

“I’ve had her two years now and she’s naturally very fast, so you don’t really have to think about being quick,” he added of the mare who is owned by Harry Whall. “I just tried to do a really right, smooth round and not leave strides anywhere, and and every question I asked she answered. She jumped amazing, I’m so chuffed with her.”

One of the most serious challengers was the last in, Trevor’s brother Shane Breen, riding the 10-year-old grey mare Haya. Shane did not waste a single inch as he chased his brother’s time, but a fence down at the double as he set sail down the final line put paid to his efforts to take over the lead.

“Shane was asking me if I went six down that last line and I said ‘Don’t you worry about that now’,” joked Trevor. “I was trying to persuade him not to go fast but it didn’t work obviously! But it was my day today.”

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The best kiss and cry reaction, Deusser’s sensational victory and a debut World Cup win

Jennifer Donald — Mon, 21 Nov 2022 12:57:31 +0000

We enjoyed four days of world-class showjumping in Prague, Czech Republic, this week, with the 2022 Longines Global Champions Tour season drawing to a sensational close with the Super Grand Prix and Global Champions League (GCL) Super Cup team tournament providing a great spectacle. In Las Vegas, there was a milestone win for a young US rider and a podium Nations Cup finish for Ireland in Portugal. Here are just some of the highlights from the past week’s international showjumping action, plus showjumping results.

The best kiss and cry celebration

Miami Celtics came out top in a fierce battle for the GCL Super Cup at the Prague Playoffs, with jubilant supporters erupting on the kiss and cry (main image top) as 23-year-old Swiss rider Edouard Schmitz nailed their victory with a clear under immense pressure.

“My knees are still shaking,” said the Celtics’ under-25 rider, who rode Gamin Van’t Naastveldhof (pictured below). “When you go into the ring knowing you have to deliver a clear, it’s difficult but when you’re under pressure sometimes you perform better. You wish for days like this.”

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

His team-mates in Prague were Irish riders Bertram Allen on Pacino Amiro and Michael G Duffy riding Clitschko 17.

“To finish with a win is not something I think any of us expected,” said Michael. “We really fought hard all week and we have three amazing championship horses – we certainly wouldn’t be sitting here without them. My heart was in my mouth watching Edouard! I didn’t make his job the easiest [adding eight faults] but he got stuck in, he didn’t leave anything to chance and what a ride from him and Bertram.”

GCL Super Cup final standings

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Milestone success for Lillie Keenan

US rider Lillie Keenan, 26, won her first Longines FEI World Cup qualifier in Las Vegas riding the 11-year-old Dutch-bred stallion Agana Van Het Gerendal Z (pictured above). Victory came after a six-way jump-off where she beat the previous week’s Toronto winner Daniel Coyle, this time riding the nine-year-old Ivory TCS, by just 0.16sec.

“I’ve taught myself that when I go later [in the start order] to just walk my course, think about my plan and stick to it,” said Lillie. “I know Daniel’s really fast. I didn’t need to see him do it to know that I’d have to do everything I could to try to beat him.”

Conor Swail regained the lead in the North American League World Cup standings after his 11th-place finish.

Longines FEI World Cup of Las Vegas results

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Deusser is left speechless after LGCT Super Grand Prix success

THE curtain closed on the 2022 Longines Global Champions Tour (LGCT) with a resounding victory for German superstar Daniel Deusser and the quirky but supremely talented chestnut Scuderia 1918 Tobago Z in Saturday’s 1.65m LGCT Super Grand Prix at the Prague Playoffs in the Czech Republic.

“I’m speechless about how my horse performed tonight – I think he underestimated a bit the height of the fences but he really tried his heart out,” said Daniel, who took home a staggering top prize of just over €300,000 after the two-round competition.

LGCT Super Grand Prix results

©Sportfot (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Jessica Springsteen is the speed queen

At the ESP Pre-Charity CSI3* in Wellington, Florida, Jessica Springsteen (pictured above) triumphed in the $37,000 Elite Horse Transport 1.45m speed class riding Stone Hill Farm’s nine-year-old mare Naomi Van Het Keizershof (Cardento x For Pleasure), whom she’s had for three years.

“I think she is really special,” said Jessica. “She has taken a little bit more time but is super careful and is very competitive. I’m hoping to step her up and put her in a couple of the smaller grand prix classes this season.”

Elite Horse Transport 1.45m speed class results

(Image credit: Manue Macker)

Oakingham Stud achieves further international success

Winning the grand prix qualifier at the ESP Pre-Charity CSI3* show in Wellington, Florida, was US rider Alison Robitaille with the Oakingham Stud-produced mare Oakingham Lira (pictured above), now owned by Alison Firestone.

“My goal early last year was to be jumping the three-stars by the end of this year, so this is really great,” said the rider. “I’m just so happy with how my horse feels; we’ve been building our partnership all year long. After walking in today, we really feel like a team.”

Oakingham Stud owns Ben Maher’s championship medal-winning Faltic HB and Lira was produced by the stud’s Mackenzie Ray and Shane O’Reilly before going overseas, teaming up with her current rider at the start of this year.

CSI3* Wellington grand prix qualifier showjumping results

Swiss riders finish 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th in Italian grand prix

Remarkably, in the CSI2* grand prix in Gorla Minore, Italy, this week, the top five placings were filled by Swiss riders. The victor after an 18-strong jump-off was Pius Schwizer riding Cassalino, chased home by his team-mates Barbara Schnieper with Innok, Roger Umnus (Cupido), Jean-Maurice Brahier riding Caracoles, with Steve Guerdat in fifth on Hubba Bubba.

Gorla Minore CSI2* grand prix results

(Image credit: Manue Macker)

Eve Jobs’ ‘unbelievable’ stallion makes a winning comeback

Irish rider Darragh Kerrins landed the $137,000 NoltrexVet grand prix at the CSI3* show in Wellington, Florida, with the 11-year-old Holstein stallion Lissino, owned by Eve Jobs.

“I’ve been riding him on and off for the last two years,” said Darragh (pictured in action above). “He actually had a small injury around this time last year and pretty much missed the whole year. We started bringing him back to jumping at the end of August. He has come back feeling better than ever; he feels unbelievable.

“I didn’t know what to expect after watching everyone else go in the first round, but he gave me everything today, he’s an unbelievable horse,” said Darragh, one of only two riders from a field of 33 to jump clear in round one. “When I walked the course today, it definitely walked hard but I didn’t think it was going to turn out that difficult. The time allowed was a big issue and in the combination line you could either do a seven or an eight, so there were options everywhere.”

CSI3* grand prix results in Wellington, Florida

Nations Cup podium for Ireland

In the CSIO3* Nations Cup held at Villamoura Champions Tour, Portugal, France came out winners, chased home by USA and Ireland’s squad of Trevor Breen (Germaine W), David Simpson on Indian Quality Z, Alexander Butler with Coolivio PS and Richard Howley on Fame. Great Britain’s quartet finished 11th after narrowly missing the cut for round two. William Fletcher and Ginadina PP were among the CSI3* individual winners in this week’s competitions.

Villamoura Champions Tour results

Great Britain and Ireland qualify for final eight in Nations Cup Final thriller in Barcelona

Jennifer Donald — Thu, 29 Sep 2022 20:03:57 +0000

The showjumping teams from Great Britain and Ireland are among the eight finalists for Sunday’s Longines FEI Nations Cup Final after qualifying from a nail-biting opening round in Barcelona, Spain, on Thursday (29 September).

Fourteen nations lined up for the first leg of this week’s finale and the outright winners were France, who proved unstoppable with four clear rounds. They fielded the same team of horses and riders who finished sixth at the World Championships last month.

“We were just saying how much the horses have grown since Herning,” said Simon Delestre, who rode the 10-year-old Hickstead son, Cayman Jolly Jumper. “They are super quality horses with a good mind, they are fighters and really modern horses and they proved that again today. My horse has had an amazing Nations Cup season this year.”

Tremendous start for Ireland in Nations Cup Final

Ireland showed tremendous early form in the Nations Cup Final to take second ahead of hosts Spain, equal with Belgium in third.

Irish clears came from Trevor Breen with Highland President and Jack Ryan riding BBS McGregor, both home-breds. Andrew Bourns jumped round for four faults with the Irish-bred Sea Topblue, while Mark McAuley (Jasco V Bisschop) was the drop score of eight.

Jack, 21, said: “There was a little bit of pressure because today is all about qualifying for Sunday and to get the clear round. McGregor is very special, my mother bred him and he’s been a fantastic horse. He’s a great character and everything he’s been asked to do so far he’s done it with ease. He has a big heart and every time he goes in the ring he wants to do his best and you can’t ask for more than that!”

Tying for fifth on eight penalties were Switzerland, Germany and the Netherlands and squeaking through as the last of the eight teams to qualify for Sunday’s final were Great Britain, who finished with 12 faults. They posted the same team score as Brazil, however the Brits earned the coveted top eight place thanks to a marginally quicker time – just 0.4sec split the two squads.

Clear round for Joe Stockdale

The sole British clear came from Joe Stockdale riding his World Championship team bronze medal-winning partner Equine America Cacharel, whom he described as jumping “fantastic” in the opening round.

“We went in there and felt very comfortable, and I sort of knew even from jumping the first three fences that she was on good form,” said Joe, who had given the mare a break after Herning, slowly building her back up to finish fourth in a grand prix in Belgium before coming to Spain.

“For some horses switching them off for a few weeks and switching them back on is tricky but she took to it well. You can tell when she’s ready because she gets a bit bored in the field!”

Pathfinder on Di Lampard’s young Great Britain team was Ellen Whitaker, who just picked up four faults at the treble combination on Equine America Spacecake while Jodie Hall McAteer and Salt’N Peppa came home on eight. Lily Attwood, at 20 the youngest rider in the competition, and Cor-Leon V Vlierbeek Z hit three fences and collected two time-faults.

These top eight teams go straight through to Sunday’s final where they will start again on a zero score. As well as the Nations Cup title honours, Paris 2024 Olympic qualification is at stake for either Belgium or Switzerland.

The lower placed teams now bid for victory in Saturday night’s Longines Challenge Cup.

‘The price you pay for loving them is losing them’: farewell to ‘extraordinary’ horse who made Hickstead Derby history

Eleanor Jones — Thu, 25 Aug 2022 08:05:40 +0000

An “extraordinary” horse who made Hickstead Derby history and was “king of the yard” to the last has died aged 23 after a long and happy retirement.

Loughnatousa WB, the first horse to win the Boomerang trophy under two different riders, was put down at his home for the last 12 years, with Bernice Cuthbert, who told H&H: “He wasn’t allowed to suffer; age was creeping up on him and it was the right time to send him to heaven. I was so relieved I could do that for him; he had five years of proper retirement, and was looked after as if he was going to jump the Derby again. That’s all you can do for horses, and it’s everything.”

WB, as he was always known, was bred in Ireland by vet and renowned breeder Walter B Connors, whose initials gave him part of his name. He was by Walter’s father Nicholas Connors’ Spring Elegance VII, out of Early Biddy VII from the Beecher family’s Loughnatousa Stud.

Walter sent WB to the Beecher family’s yard when he was three and Paul Beecher produced him until he was sold to Patricia Brown and moved to Bernice’s Aston Park Stud.

Phillip Miller was his first competition rider in this country – “Phillip did a brilliant job as WB was wild with joy at shows,” Bernice said – coming second in a puissance, but as Phillip was unable to keep riding him, and as the horse was very important to Paul Beecher, it was arranged that Paul would come over from Ireland to compete him.

“Nothing remarkable happened – in fact, quite the opposite! – until he won his first Derby in 2012 from first draw, fulfilling everything that he had promised at home,” Bernice said.

Paul and WB had come 13th on 16 faults the previous year but then in 2012, came in first and jumped clear. William and Funnell on Dorada also jumped clear but picked up four faults in the jump-off, meaning Paul and WB’s clear took the win.

As Paul could no longer travel to England, Michael Londsdale took the reins, enjoying success including a joint-win in the 2012 Horse of the Year Show puissance and fifth in the 2013 Derby. When Michael’s circumstances changed, Trevor Breen took the reins, in 2014.

“WB became even more exuberant with Trevor at shows and they had some great results together, including a second Derby win for both of them,” Bernice said.

As well as that Derby win in 2015, the pair finished sixth in the class in 2014, and fifth in 2016. They also won an area trial and an International Stairway, and came third in a two-star class at the London leg of the Longines Global Champions Tour.

Julian White on WB at home (Image credit: creditUnknown)

They were aiming for another Derby in 2017 but an injury ruled WB out, and he was retired to Bernice, where he lived a happy life until he was put down owing to age-related issues, on 18 August.

“Even though you know it’s going to happen at some point, it’s always difficult,” Bernice said.

“He was an extraordinary horse; very sensitive but unbelievably tough and courageous. We were lucky to have such good riders for him, and his courage and desire to jump round that Derby track was enormous. But he wasn’t just a Derby horse.”

Bernice said although WB’s bravery was “unquestionable”, he was “a kitten in the stable”.

“But as soon as he saw his rider in full gear, at a show, he became the most enormously powerful animal, full of excitement,” she said. “And whenever he went in the ring, whether it was at Bury Farm or Hickstead, he always neighed loudly, not to say ‘Where are my friends?’ but to say ‘Here I am’.”

Bernice remembered highlights including, after WB’s first Derby win, a comment in H&H saying “three stars were born this weekend”; the others being Frankel and Black Caviar.

“To be linked with them – he so deserved that,” she said, adding that the yard feels very different now without him.

“His stable was a stride away from my office window and he’d be looking through the window at me, demanding attention,” she said. “If he wasn’t so big, I’d have had him in the house! I’ve never known a horse like him.”

Bernice paid tribute to Patricia as a “wonderful” owner, of racehorses as well as showjumpers, for the care in which they are kept for life, and her support for the sport, her determination that her horses were for life and that “their wellbeing was always ahead of winning”.

Julian White, who rode WB at home and was with him at the end, said: “He was an amazing character and whoever rode him could never take a single stride for granted; he had more enthusiasm than any person or other horse I have ever met. He leaves an amazing memory and many stories to us all and that is quite a feat in itself.”

Bernice added that WB’s ashes will be laid to rest with two other of her horses; Apollo on whom she completed Badminton and Burghley, and her champion Flat racing sire Dominion.

“How lucky is that, to have those horses?” she said. “The experience of those horses was phenomenal; I must have had a horsey star looking over me, and the price you pay for loving them is when you lose them. But it’s a price worth paying.”

‘I’d have bitten your arm off for fourth!’ Ex-eventer jumps double clear in his first CSI5* grand prix at Hickstead

Jennifer Donald — Tue, 02 Aug 2022 10:42:15 +0000

As always, a world-class field of established horses and riders came forward for Sunday’s (31 July) historic feature class, the Longines King George V Gold Cup at the Royal International Horse Show, won by Belgian rider Gilles Thomas.

But finishing just off the podium in a very creditable fourth with an eye-catching double clear was an ex-event horse competing in his first ever five-star grand prix.

Trevor Breen and the 11-year-old KWPN gelding Gonzalo only teamed up a few weeks ago, but were one of the undisputed stars of Hickstead on Sunday.

“I’m delighted — he jumped unbelievably,” said Trevor, who was competing at only his fourth show with Gonzalo, a son of Viceroy T.

“I’m just getting to know him but he was fourth on the first day in the big class [at the Royal International] and the plan was to do the grand prix, so to perform like that was fantastic.

“He’s such a lovely horse, he’s beautiful to ride and he has a huge heart and fights for you, so he makes my life a bit easier.”

Trevor and Gonzalo were drawn fifth in the eight-way jump-off to decide top honours for the King’s Cup and there had been no clear rounds when the Irish rider entered the ring, leaving him with a tactical conundrum.

“I was probably going to go a bit faster than I did, but I thought if I could just get a clear,” said Trevor. “I wanted to put the guys after me under pressure — the likes of Harry Charles, Gilles Thomas and Marlon Modolo Zanotelli are all super fast riders. I tried to put them under pressure and hoped they’d make mistakes but none of them did, unfortunately! So I ended up fourth.

“But you have to make a calculated guess in jump-offs and if you’d told me that this morning that I’d finish fourth I’d have bitten your arm off, so it’s all good.”

Gonzalo had been ridden in a few lower level international showjumping classes by British rider Chloe Winchester over the past six months before Trevor took over last month. But before that, Gonzalo had evented up to CCI4* level with British rider Lauren McLusky, who took over from Michelle Kenny and Olympic rider Austin O’Connor of Ireland.

“A friend of mine, Sean Cubitt, owns him, through Home Farm Equestrian, and he called me up one day and said I’m going to send that horse [Gonzalo] to you,” explained Trevor. “He literally arrived the next day.

“My first show was Bolesworth – that didn’t go so good actually – then I did a national show and he won the 1.40m there, then we went to Keysoe where he was third on the second day and fourth in the grand prix. He then came here to Hickstead and finished fourth on the first day and fourth in the grand prix. So it’s been a pretty steep learning curve!

“He’s a horse that gives you confidence in him though. He gives you belief. I planned this grand prix for him because he’s an ex-eventer; with all the ditches and things like that in there, you need to be brave and in that first round he didn’t look at anything, he was super. So my plan worked out and I’m delighted for him and everyone connected with him.”

‘I’d love to see Shane win the Hickstead Derby’: without a ride this year, Trevor Breen will be his brother’s biggest supporter

Jennifer Donald — Sun, 19 Jun 2022 12:02:46 +0000

All roads lead to West Sussex next week for the long-awaited return of the Al Shira’aa Hickstead Derby meeting (23-26 June).

But for two-time Hickstead Derby winner Trevor Breen the return is bittersweet as, with his potential Derby horse ruled out with a small injury, the Irishman will be watching from the sidelines this year.

As he tells H&H showjumping editor Jennifer Donald on this week’s episode of The Horse & Hound Podcast, though, he’ll be his brother Shane Breen’s biggest supporter this year.

“I feel for him – he’s jumped a good few clear rounds on really good horses like Golden Hawk and Can Ya Makan but just hasn’t won it yet,” says Trevor. “Which I do enjoy slagging him about! But at the same time, I’d love to see him win it. It’s his home show and I think he deserves it, so I hope he has a bit of luck this year and gets the job done.”

The Breen brothers had a great grounding for a class like the Hickstead Derby in their native Ireland.

“Shane and I grew up on the hunting field, that was our first port of call – showjumping came after,” says Trevor. “So we were well used to the dykes and banks and ditches – there was nothing we hadn’t seen before.”

Eddie Macken, Hickstead legend

Trevor describes the legendary four-time winner of the Hickstead Derby, Eddie Macken, as “one of the greatest Irish riders ever”.

“He is synonymous with Hickstead, winning it four times with Boomerang,” says Trevor. “It’s a huge part of Irish showjumping.”

Trevor won the Hickstead Derby in exceptional style both in 2014 riding Adventure De Kannan and again in 2015 with Loughnatousa WB, but he admits to being “sent home with his tail between his legs” after his Hickstead debut six years earlier. But after having his first spin round the Derby on “Addy” in 2010, he says “I thought this horse can win the Derby”.

“So I really focussed on it from thereon in and we got closer and closer until we finally did it in 2014,” recalls Trevor. “That was pure and simple relief. I’d probably put a lot of pressure on myself because I wanted to do Addy justice and I didn’t want him to become the horse that never won the Hickstead Derby.”

Adventure De Kannan: ‘He made me a better rider’

“Addy always gives his all,”says Trevor. “He was a superstar and you couldn’t wish for a better partner to go into the ring with. He always wanted to please, he always wanted to win. His biggest asset was his intelligence and his heart. You always knew you’d be safe with him – no matter what class you put him in.

“I’d like to think I gave him a bit of confidence the other way, too, that made him a better horse. He definitely made me a better rider.”

Hickstead’s iconic fences such as the Derby bank and the devil’s dyke hold no fear for Trevor.

“I really enjoy the Derby – it’s just a hack around a big, beautiful grass arena with jumps and stuff in the way!” he says. “I love the tradition about it, I love the course. If you’re on a good horse with a realistic chance, it’s an amazing feeling. If it goes well, the crowd really get behind you. If you come out of the dyke and you’re still clear, you can definitely feel the crowd getting excited.”

Listen to more of Trevor’s thoughts about learning how to jump the Hickstead Derby and what made his beloved one-eyed wonder horse Adventure De Kannan so good on episode 107 of The Horse & Hound Podcast – listen here or search “The Horse & Hound Podcast” in your favourite podcast app.

The Horse & Hound Podcast 107: Trevor Breen on the Hickstead Derby | Bramham review | Job perks as a vet | News round-up

Gemma Redrup — Thu, 16 Jun 2022 05:45:15 +0000

In our 106th weekly episode of The Horse & Hound Podcast, H&H’s Jennifer Donald talks to top showjumper Trevor Breen. He talks about his memories of the iconic Hickstead Derby and particularly his success there with Adventure De Kannan. H&H’s Pippa Roome is then joined by her colleague Gemma Redrup to chat about all things Bramham and Pippa then catches up with the H&H team to discuss an awards scheme to help against the fight against obesity in the show ring, new measures to keep competing affordable and the unity pledge that was signed by British Equestrian a couple of weeks ago. Finally, we’ll hear from two vets; Rick Farr from Farr & Pursey Equine and the Royal Veterinary College’s Andy Fiske-Jackson. They discuss the perks of the job in a vet’s life. We hope you’ll enjoy listening.

Episode 107 of The Horse & Hound Podcast, our popular audio service available every Thursday morning for our H&H digital subscribers and currently supported by Equipe and their UK distributor Zebra, is now live.

Each episode is available for all H&H fans to listen to via your favourite podcast app 24hrs after its early release to our H&H digital subscribers. Search for “The Horse & Hound Podcast” in your preferred podcast app and click subscribe to be notified about each new episode. This will allow more listeners to make The Horse & Hound Podcast an essential part of their week on Friday morning.

View all episodes of The Horse & Hound Podcast

In our 107th weekly episode of The Horse & Hound Podcast, H&H’s Jennifer Donald talks to top showjumper Trevor Breen. He talks about his memories of the iconic Hickstead Derby and particularly his success there with Adventure De Kannan.

“I really wanted for him to become a bit of a Hickstead legend so when he did, it was relief for the first couple of days and then that turned into happiness” – Trevor Breen on Adventure De Kannan and his legendary status at Hickstead

H&H’s Pippa Roome is then joined by her colleague Gemma Redrup to chat about all things Bramham.

“It was great to be back at Bramham – it’s a stunning event” – H&H’s Gemma Redrup on being back at this key four-star event in the British eventing calendar.

Pippa then catches up with the H&H team to discuss an awards scheme to help against the fight against obesity in the show ring, new measures to keep competing affordable and the unity pledge that was signed by British Equestrian a couple of weeks ago.

“There are separate awards given to the horse or pony that is in the best bodily condition in each class to help promote the ones that are in the best shape” – H&H’s news editor Eleanor Jones on an awards scheme to help against the fight against obesity in the show ring

Finally, we’ll hear from two vets; Rick Farr from Farr & Pursey Equine and the Royal Veterinary College’s Andy Fiske-Jackson.

“I love those little perks – I’ve got a couple of clients who know that I’m very partial to a bit of lemon drizzle cake” – Rick Farr

We would love to hear your feedback on all our podcasts, so please do send your thoughts to pippa.roome@futurenet.com

Horse & Hound Podcast: episode 107

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The Horse & Hound Podcast 104: Super-groom to Carl Hester & Charlotte Dujardin, Alan Davies | The smelly side of being a vet | News round-up

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‘It’s a fantastic feeling when you get it right’: 18hh gelding and puissance debutant share Royal Windsor spoils

Sarah Radford — Fri, 13 May 2022 07:03:30 +0000

There was a British-Irish tie in the puissance at Royal Windsor Horse Show when big-wall specialists Derek Morton and KBIS High Quality shared the spoils with newcomer to the class Chankar Mail, ridden by Trevor Breen.

In a thrilling closing heat, puissance favourites Mr Blue Sky and Guy Williams, who have rewritten the history books with their consistency in this class in recent years, also left the wall standing, but clocked an excruciating four faults when they lowered the rail at the triple bar.

It was unusual to see five combinations make the fifth and final round, where the wall reached 2.15m (7ft), all of whom had cleared it flawlessly in the preceding heat.

David Simpson and Thomas Hedgecock’s Jumper Jack TS, a horse he had ridden just three times before, jumped brilliantly until the end, when they dragged off a brick behind. Elliot Smith and Flamboyant II, joint winners at both Bolesworth last year and more recently Chard, shared the same fate.

But Derek Morton and the 18hh KBIS Quality cleared the wall with just a light tap of a hind foot and shared the £5,000 first prize with Trevor and the Old Lodge’s impressive 10-year-old stallion, who appeared to thrive on his puissance debut.

Derek Morton and KBIS High Quality also cleared the wall in the final round to share the victory. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

“It looked at one point like we were all going to come away equal first, as no one was getting through on luck alone,” said Derek.

“It is a big wall though and you never know with these classes how it will turn out — it’s a leap of faith and if there’s a single bit of doubt it can go wrong. Tonight it went perfectly for me.

“It’s fantastic to get into a show with this atmosphere,” he added of Royal Windsor Horse Show, which runs over four days. “The crowd loves a puissance, although the riders not always so much! It’s a fantastic feeling when you get it right.”

Trevor has been riding the striking Chankar Mail for just a few months and has recently been “jumping him round some 1.30ms to build him up”, including taking a win in the CSI* at Chepstow two weeks ago.

“I asked [owner] Prince Torki if I could try him in the puissance at Royal Windsor Horse Show and he said yes. John Whitaker had him before me and had jumped a six-bar on him, which is a similar class,” Trevor said.

“He was fantastic tonight and went beyond my expectations. The first round was a bit hairy as he didn’t know what was going on and he had never seen the green brush in front of the wall before — he ran hard right and I was just about to let him go when he gave in and jumped it.

“After that, every round became better and better.”

The bay stallion was displaying some incredible scope at heights well over 6ft, giving the wall air.

“I was thinking ‘dude you don’t need to give it that much room!’” Trevor said. “He really felt like he loved it and when you’re jumping puissances, that’s a lovely feeling to have.”

Horse & Hound will be bringing you all the action from Royal Windsor Horse Show both online and in next week’s magazine, in the shops on Thursday 19 May.

Breen brothers land a remarkable hat-trick

Jennifer Donald — Mon, 24 Jan 2022 17:50:19 +0000

Irish showjumping brothers Trevor and Shane Breen racked up an impressive grand prix double at the CSIO5*/2* President of the UAE Showjumping Cup in Abu Dhabi (20-23 January), the pair also uniting to help Ireland triumph in the opening leg of the Longines FEI Nations Cup series.

Shane’s five-star grand prix victory came with the 14-year-old stallion Z7 Ipswich (pictured), then Trevor piloted Mandy Hall’s 10-year-old son of Catwalk IV, Toyger, to top spot in Saturday’s two-star equivalent, the fastest of only two double clears.

In Sunday’s Nations Cup, the brothers returned with Trevor swapping on to Highland President. They were joined by former Breen Equestrian riders David Simpson, with his Bolesworth grand prix winner Foudre F, and 20-year-old Jack Ryan with his home-bred BBS McGregor to win on a team score of zero, with David and Jack both producing double clears. Just one fence separated the Irish from the second-placed UAE home team, sealing a truly remarkable hat-trick for the Breens.

“The UAE really kept the pressure on us,” said Irish chef d’equipe Michael Blake. “I wouldn’t have dreamt this morning that it would take six clear rounds to win it!

“We’ve competed here four times and had three second-place finishes, but I felt this competition was ours to lose today and that we were the best team here, although I didn’t see the UAE coming as strong as they did — it just shows how showjumping is developing in this region.”

Co. Kilkenny rider Jack Ryan was competing in just his second senior Nations Cup. He announced last week that he was departing Breen Equestrian, where he has been based for two years, to embark on a new stage in his glittering career.

“He was on the winning team in Vilamoura [Portugal] last year so he’s now made it two wins out of two — that’s impressive!” said Michael. “I was at my first championship with Jack when he was just 11 years old competing in children-on-horses, and it’s extra special that he is riding a home-bred horse here today.”

Jack’s BBS McGregor, by Cardento, has recovered from a serious injury.

“As a yearling he got very sick because we think he was kicked in the head by another horse when out in the field,” said Jack. “He fell apart physically and we couldn’t figure out what was wrong with him — he was just fading away. But he had a lump on his nose and when it was X-rayed it seems that a tooth went up through the roof of his mouth when he was kicked and he couldn’t eat because of the pain.

“He’s so much better now and it’s great to see him doing so well and enjoying himself in the ring.”

Great Britain only fielded three riders but they managed to finish third. Flying the flag was another Hickstead-based rider, Georgia Tame (Z7 Ascot), who was joined by William Funnell (Equine America Billy Diamo) and pathfinder Donald Whitaker (Di Caprio) who, jumping in his first five-star Nations Cup, produced an exceptional double clear over Alan Wade’s track to claim a share of the €50,000 for the five partnerships who maintained a zero score.

“I was really proud of the three riders today, they dug deep, showing their determination and qualities for the future,” said British chef d’equipe Di Lampard.

UAE and fifth-placed Saudi Arabia have now qualified for the Nations Cup Final in Barcelona in October.

“I think our best score here before was 17 faults so today’s result was really great!” said UAE team rider Abdullah Mohammed Al Marri. “We are aiming two teams for events this year – one for the Asian Games and one for the Longines Final and of course today’s competition is also a qualifier for the World Championships so it has been a great experience for all of us!”

Equestrian power couples: H&H talks to partners in life and horses H&H Plus

Lucy Higginson — Sun, 13 Sep 2020 14:00:03 +0000

Living with an equally competitive rider has its pros and cons. Lucy Higginson asks some power couples how they balance family life with competitive goals

“People talk about the challenges of isolation, but we’ve actually found it fine,” says Sara Parrott, referring to the challenges of lockdown earlier this year.

Living with her partner, fellow showing supremo Craig Elenor, on 10 acres in Easingwold, Yorkshire, she has stumbled on to one of the ironies of lockdown: it’s not all that different to regular out-of-season life when you run a competition yard with your partner.

But how do you cope when you live and work with your other half, at home, in a sport that gives very little change from a 13-hour day? What for some is a recipe for disaster works like a dream for others, who may often not leave their property for days at a time, even without a pandemic.

Chatting with Sara and Craig, it’s clear that humour smooths their 24/7 life-work operation (“I’ve learnt that in Yorkshire, ‘It’s all right,’ means, ‘It’s really, really good,’” she laughs). Theirs is a young business, Sara having moved to Yorkshire from Essex in 2014.

“We’d both produced horses before, but ponies have just taken over so we’ve gone down the pony and mountain and moorland route,” explains Sara. “The most stressful thing, without doubt, is finances, but it helps that we do what we love and suit being busy.”

Having bought their own property three years ago, every spare moment and penny is spent redeveloping it for horses.

“We’re in a static caravan as we go through planning for a barn conversion,” explains Sara. “It’s not big, because Craig built a really nice outdoor arena…”

Equestrian couples tend to agree that the biggest strain you’ll ever face is developing that critical pool of owners, buyers and pupils to spend money with you.

“We had no idea how easy life in New Zealand was until we came to England… money was tight,” says eventer Jonelle Price. “It took a good six or seven years to find the formula.”

Few spouses in any sport compete side by side at the highest echelons like Jonelle and her husband Tim, each of them having represented their country and won five-stars. Accepting differences within a shared system is one key to their success.

“It used to wind me up that Tim’s a bit slower getting going in the mornings,” says Jonelle. “Now we have separate cars and I don’t let it bother me any more.”

The Price horses are all fed, kept and managed as one team – “the only thing we are very anal about is our bridles,” laughs Jonelle. “Tim changes his bits all the time.”

They may share grids and exercises, but “we have very different temperaments, our own styles and approaches,” says Jonelle. “I guess we have to – look at our physiques.”

With husband and wife each having their own distinct groups of owners, horses are bought with one thing in mind – preventing arguments about who should ride what. While they have occasionally swapped – for example, Jonelle produced Tim’s horse Bango to the age of five, and Tim now competes her former ride Ascona M – generally they have different tastes.

“I prefer smaller, hotter horses, light and athletic, and I like my mares,” says Jonelle. “Tim likes them more level-headed…”

It’s more common to find one half of the couple is “lead rider”. For Craig and Sara it’s the latter’s job as Craig focuses on lead-rein and in-hand classes, and in the case of the dressage Davisons, it’s Richard who’s done more than his wife Gillian, whom he met when she came for lessons as a young event rider and hunter chaser.

“We’ve always had horses that jump,” points out Richard, long before their son, Tom, started showjumping.

Gillian continued eventing through motherhood – “it was all quite chaotic; I once went to an event with no tack at all!” – though life became easier when she focused fully on dressage too.

But has it been hard watching Richard ride at four Olympics instead of her? “If I’d had the horse to do it, I’d have wanted to,” she admits. “I’m probably not quite as competitive as Richard, but the bottom line really is that it’s hard to have two people in a relationship striving as hard as Richard was.”

Is there any hint of regret in her voice on this topic, or in Caroline Breen’s, another talented and very bright rider juggling family with the family business?

“Trevor is the lead rider, and though I love to do as many shows as I can, I’m aware that’s predominantly his job and it never causes any arguments,” Caroline says.

Though Richard insists Team Davison is “absolutely not competitive with each other – we are one unit, just trying to do our best,” my bet is that you can never fully take the competitiveness out of a competitor.

“Everything is a competition between me and Tim,” laughs Jonelle. “If you’re like that by nature, you can’t help it.”

But Gillian and Caroline offset rosette envy by deriving pride from sharing in any success.

“First and foremost, it was about making a business and raising a family with it, not about who won most,” says Gillian.

Trevor Breen agrees: “It doesn’t matter who’s winning the grand prix, it’s the business that supports the family.”

High-flying co-workers

As in any relationship, these high-flying co-workers have all identified their areas of responsibility, often working together and helping each other from the ground, but also managing their own areas.

“I try to leave Trevor as much as possible to the riding, travelling, sourcing horses for investors and top-end sales,” says Caroline.

Though she also rides several horses a day and teaches, she’s the go-to person for amateur sales, accounts, invoices, social media and more.

Sara and Craig also have specific roles. “I do the riding, teaching and social media side of things,” says Sara. “Craig will be building or tinkering – we’re not in each other’s pockets all day.”

Richard admits: “Gill basically runs the yard – and would say the house – she is practical and hands on. I deal with all the sponsorship and business side of things. I’m involved in many areas of the horse world which involve all kinds of meetings,” he adds.

“I couldn’t have prepared my top horses without Gillian keeping them going.”

When work is right outside the back door, how hard is it to leave behind when you slip your boots off at the day’s end – and is it essential that you do?

“I could have been that person who spends every minute with horses,” admits Richard, “but as you get older you get better at remembering that there must be down time.”

Gillian has friends she goes walking with and over time the Davisons have made strong local, unhorsey friends. “We don’t talk about horses with them and it’s really good for us,” he says.

Some professional equi-couples with children aim for at least one non-horsey family holiday a year, but horses do inevitably invade every corner of life.

“Trevor is better than me at saying, ‘No horsey chat now!’ in the evening, but obviously, with different time zones, we are accessible to owners and investors all the time – it can overtake your life,” says Caroline.

Jonelle agrees: “The job we do is all-consuming – whether it’s answering messages or sending videos in the evening… but we are very good at working hard through the season and walking away [for a holiday] in the winter and barely needing to talk about horses, last time to New Zealand and Sri Lanka. Then we’re just great mates again.”

Parenting

While the Prices are still able to take their children with them when travelling, that becomes harder for children of school age. Parenting adds yet another dimension to a business based around sport that happens mainly at weekends.

“Family life is harder to manage than working life,” admits Caroline. “Trevor does miss quite a lot of the kids’ school activities, birthday parties and so on at weekends.”

Caroline is amused and intrigued when her seven-year-old picks up on horse-dealing issues, but there’s no expectation in the Breen house that either of their children should follow in their footsteps.

“They’d have to be really into it to pursue it as a career,” reflects Trevor. “If you’re only half committed, this kind of work will get you down.”

Though both children have ponies, the Breen mantra is “education first” (and Trevor was formerly a maths and business teacher). “There’s no missing school to go to shows,” says Caroline firmly.

Tom Davison has followed his parents into full-time riding, but not before getting a business degree from Manchester.

“Personally I’d have liked the children to follow another career and keep horses as a high-level interest,” reflects Richard.

Though a much newer parent, Jonelle sings from the same hymn sheet: “I’d like them to go down their own path,” she says. “It’s hard to follow if you’ve had two parents at the top of the game. And I’ve had to work really hard for it and that makes you so hungry. They really have to want to do it, not just because it’s in front of them.”

Underpinning such views is the knowledge of just how hard you have to work to build a viable business as a professional rider. Dealing with this workload and the inevitable ups and downs as a couple can be easier if there is total mutual respect for each other’s input.

“I can rely on Gillian for total bluntness,” says Richard. “I don’t take this for granted. I never imagined I would marry someone who shares my interests and is a fantastic rider.”

But working so intensely alongside someone also means you need that cheesy thing people talk about at weddings – a soulmate – who is fun, forgiving, shares your dreams and is the person you want to spend most time with.

“We just like to do a lot together, even going running together in lockdown,” says Caroline.

Jonelle adds: “Everyone asks how we spend so much time together, but it’s not seeing Tim that feels abnormal to me…”

Tips for competitive couples

Respect is key: “You have to agree to disagree sometimes and have faith that the other person knows what they’re talking about,” says Jonelle Price. “It only works if you respect one another as equals,” agrees Richard Davison. “Gillian is a strong character, very straight and honest and I know where the boundaries are.”
Enjoy the fact you have a friend and ally on site. Many riders actually find life at home pretty lonely.
Accept that one of you may have to hog the limelight. “Don’t take it personally,” says Caroline Breen. Though she loves competing at a high level, she accepts that “Trevor is more talented at riding than me and I play my part liaising with clients and helping grow the business”.
Clear delineations over who runs what are useful: “You have to be respectful of the other and treat them like a work colleague sometimes,” says Caroline.

Ref Horse & Hound; 10 September 2020

Top rider wins fourth HOYS Talent Seekers title: sat on horse just 36hrs earlier

Jennifer Donald — Thu, 04 Oct 2018 13:50:27 +0000

Irish showjumper Trevor Breen has been crowned the Talent Seekers champion at Horse of the Year Show for a remarkable fourth time — on a horse he rode for the first time only 36 hours before the final.

West Sussex-based Trevor and the eight-year-old mare Diamants Aurora, who is owned by Tracy Priest and was previously competed by Dan Delsart, topped a strong field of finalists as one of only two combinations to jump double clear, just beating Alfie Bradstock (Eebay) against the clock.

“Tracy normally rides the horse and has done a great job producing her to this level and qualified her for the class,” said Trevor.

“She rang me on Monday and said she was going to Barcelona for the week so asked me to take the ride. I didn’t ask too many questions, and said ‘yes, of course’. She brought her to my place on Tuesday morning, I gave the horse a few jumps and now I am here!”

Trevor now has a remarkable unbeaten record in this championship, having won on each of the four occasions he has qualified — in 2011, 2014, 2015 and now 2018.

Continues below…

(Image credit: 1st Class Images)

Catch ride wins British Speed Derby at Hickstead

This year’s speed derby winner sat on his winning ride just twice after a three year break prior to victory

(Image credit: 1st Class Images)

Oliver Townend wins Adelaide CIC3* on catch ride: ‘I’ve never ridden in a place like that’

The British rider sat on his winning ride just three times before the event

(Image credit: 1st Class Images)

“I said to Tracy jokingly that the horse had better keep up my 100% record!” said Trevor. “She’s a lovely mare. I have watched a lot of her, I’ve always liked her, but I only ever see her in the ring. Tracy told me that she’s very laid back, very relaxed, but she lights up when she goes in the ring, and she was absolutely bang on. She went in the ring and was so relaxed. She jumped her heart out and she was fantastic. It has always been a lucky show for me, and as long as they keep having me, I will keep coming.”

Don’t miss all the action from this year’s 70^th anniversary Horse of the Year Show in next week’s Horse & Hound, out Thursday 11 October.

Hickstead crowds say fond farewell to one-eyed wonder horse

Jennifer Donald — Sun, 25 Jun 2017 18:56:58 +0000

Trevor Breen’s 2014 Hickstead Derby winner Adventure De Kannan was retired from the sport in a poignant ceremony at the West Sussex venue this afternoon (Sunday 25 June).

Very few horses are granted the honour of a retirement ceremony in Hickstead’s famous International Arena — the last to do so was William Funnell’s triple Derby winner Mondriaan in 2011 — but it seems fitting for this much-loved “one-eyed wonder horse”, who made the All England Jumping Course his own.

“Addy” bows out as the only horse to have won the Speed Derby (2009), the Eventing Grand Prix (2012), the All England Grand Prix (2012), the Queen Elizabeth II Cup (2014) and the British Jumping Derby (2014).

“Without a doubt I owe a lot of my career to Addy, he has been by best horse for the majority of my career,” said an emotional Trevor.

“He won classes for me week in, week out, year in and year out. We’d go to any big show in the world — Spruce Meadows, Calgary, Hickstead, Dublin, and he always tried his best — and that’s all I could ask for.

“He is an absolute gem of a horse in every possible way, it just shows his heart and his attitude. For one single horse to have all those skills to win all those different classes is incredible, he has such a will to win. He’s unbelievable and I’m going to miss him.”

The 17-year-old Irish Sports Horse gelding had an operation to remove his right eye in 2013 and finished runner-up to Phillip Miller (Caritiar Z) in that year’s Derby. Trevor described the result as “the worst second place I’ve ever had”.

Twelve months later, Trevor and Phillip both completed the Derby track on four faults and a jump-off was required to decide top honours. This time the Irishman claimed the title by 0.02seconds.

Adventure De Kannan’s owner Karen Swann produced the gelding in his early years, eventing him up to two-star level and showjumping up to 1.20m in Ireland before Trevor was given the ride. Addy will return to Karen’s Co. Tipperary home to enjoy an active retirement.

“I didn’t think it was fair to him to keep going, and I don’t want to be unfair to a horse who has given me everything,” said Trevor. “He’s helped me so much in my career and won so much for me. I wanted to retire him at the top.”

‘A crying shame’: two-time winner to miss Hickstead Derby

Eleanor Jones — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 19:50:37 +0000

Showjumper Trevor Breen said it was a “crying shame” he has had to withdraw Loughnatousa WB from this year’s Al Shira’aa Derby at Hickstead.

The 18-year-old Irish sport horse sustained what Trevor hopes to be only a minor injury, to a foreleg, but it was enough to keep him from this year’s competition (25 June).

“I’m gutted,” Trevor told H&H. “I don’t really know the extent of it yet; the vet wants to look into it and give it a few days to settle down so we’re hoping it’s minor but we don’t know.”

Loughnatousa WB has a great record in the Hickstead Derby – he won the Boomerang trophy with Trevor in 2015 and the pair finished fifth last year and sixth in 2014. The horse also won in 2012 with Paul Beecher and came fifth with Michael Lonsdale in 2013.

And Trevor said Loughnatousa WB had been going better than ever in preparation for this year’s event.

“It’s a crying shame,” he said. “He’s been in better order than ever; he’d had his last jumping session before the Derby and I genuinely felt he felt the best he had in all the years I’ve ridden him – even better than the year he won.”

Trevor thanked WB’s owner Patricia Brown and manager Bernice Cuthbert for all their support, adding on Facebook “we wish him a speedy and healthy recovery”.

Trevor said he does not yet know whether he will be aiming for a Derby entry at this year’s meeting, although he will be there to jump the international classes.

He will also take part in what is set to be an emotional ceremony, as his 2014 Derby winner – the one-eyed wonder horse Adventure De Kannan — is to be retired in front of the crowds on June 25 before the competition.

One-eyed Hickstead legend to retire at this year’s Derby

Eleanor Jones — Fri, 05 May 2017 10:34:47 +0000

One-eyed wonder horse and Hickstead great Adventure de Kannan is to be officially retired at this year’s Al Shira’aa Derby meeting (22-25 June).

The Irish sport horse gelding, one of the most prolific and consistent horses in Hickstead’s history, will step down from international competition in a ceremony in front of crowds before this year’s Derby on 25 June.

Rider Trevor Breen and owner Karen Swann felt the time is right to retire “Addy” at the age of 17.

“I didn’t think it was fair to him to keep going, and I don’t want to be unfair to a horse who has given me everything,” Trevor said. “He’s helped me so much in my career and won so much for me. I want to retire him at the top.

“I’m obviously going to be extremely sad when he retires, but I’m also going to feel proud.”

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Addy won the speed derby on his international Hickstead debut in 2009, followed by a win in the eventing grand prix at the Royal International Horse Show (RIHS) three years later. The same year, he and Trevor finished third in the Derby and won the grand prix at Hickstead’s September show.

In 2013, a few months after Addy’s eye was removed, he and Trevor finished second in the Derby to Phillip Miller and Caritiar Z, but the following year the placings were reversed, with Trevor and the one-eyed wonder horse taking the lead from Phillip by two-hundredths of a second

The same year, the combination won the Queen Elizabeth II Cup at the RIHS.

“Addy’s achievements will forever stand out in Hickstead’s history books, as the only horse to win the speed derby, the eventing grand prix, the all England grand prix, the Queen Elizabeth II cup and the Derby,” said a spokesman for the course.

Very few horses have been given retirement ceremonies in Hickstead’s international arena; the last being William Funnell’s triple Derby-winning ride Mondriaan in 2011.

“Addy deserves to have one last moment of glory here at the showground where he made his name,” said Hickstead director Lizzie Bunn. “He’s gathered a legion of fans thanks to his achievements here.

“He has overcome several setbacks to become a multiple Hickstead champion, and he will always be remembered for his consistency and brilliance. We’ll be sad to say farewell, but he definitely deserves a long and happy retirement.”

(Image credit: Matthew Seed/Hickstead)

The ‘one-eyed wonder horse’ like you’ve never seen him before [PICS]

The All England Jumping Course at Hickstead commissioned

(Image credit: Matthew Seed/Hickstead)

Fans say farewell to showjumping star [PICS]

We take a look back at the wonderful

(Image credit: Matthew Seed/Hickstead)

Hickstead superstar NOT set to become health food snack

H&H readers were shocked to see a picture

Addy will enjoy an “active retirement” with Karen, who jumped him to 1.20m and evented him to two-star level before Trevor took the ride.

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

Trevor Breen: Bolesworth just keeps getting bigger and better H&H VIP

Horse & Hound — Sat, 25 Jun 2016 07:55:29 +0000

Bolesworth is a show that keeps on growing. What organiser Nina Barbour has done is unbelievable and the additions and format show great commitment to the sport in Britain, especially in the north of England.

When I first came here all the jumping and parking were on grass, but every year I return the show is bigger and better.

The weather was a major factor and I felt for Nina and her team. Nothing could have coped with the rainfall we had on Tuesday and Wednesday, but the ground staff soon had plenty of machinery and hard core in place to help us weather the storm.

We had to cope with mud outside, but the footing in the all-weather arenas and collecting rings stood up to everything. The drainage system here did its job, and the going was perfect all week.

Each year the standard of jumping has risen and the great calibre of horses and riders competing here make it extremely hard to win a class.

British four-star shows like this are not too plentiful and as I live and jump over here it means less travel and makes it easier for me and other Britain-based riders to climb the rankings ladder.

Normally at a four-star show you need your top rides, but with the inclusion of age classes and 1.35m competitions, Bolesworth gives riders the opportunity to bring younger and less experienced horses.

With its moat and natural amphitheatre, the main ring is unique and it helps prepare up-and-coming horses for bigger shows.

The whole organisation from arena, stables, hospitality and parking has been well thought-out and they really look after the riders, owners and grooms.

Significant winners

I have enjoyed catching up with fellow Irish riders and for me one of the best wins of the show was that of Darragh Kenny and Go Easy De Muze.

Considering he had been riding that horse for only three weeks, Darragh’s winning round was fantastic. I think there is a lot more to come from that combination.

It was also nice for my wife Caroline to compete at Bolesworth and she went well in the amateur classes — it was great for the amateurs to ride in the international ring every day.

Last year Caroline was nursing a broken shoulder so she was adamant she would ride here this time, but as she is five months pregnant with our second child, this will be her last show for now.

Ref: Horse & Hound; 23 June 2016

One very small grey, an immaculate tack room — and more behind the scenes snippets of Trevor Breen’s yard

Hannah Lemieux — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 16:40:39 +0000

Always wondered what the yard of a two-time Hickstead Derby-winning showjumper looks like? We head to Trevor Breen's Buckinghamshire base to find out — don't miss the full interview in the 14 April issue of Horse & Hound, out tomorrow

12 photos of top riders’ budding stable hands

Madeleine Silver — Wed, 04 Nov 2015 12:55:28 +0000

Running a top yard and juggling small children sounds like a logistical nightmare — unless you are savvy enough to familarise your brood with a wheelbarrow, broom, paperwork and boot polish.

The next generation of eventers, jockeys, trainers and showjumpers are hard at work. And at the rate they’re going, we can guess who is going to be picking up the best kept tack, best kept stable and best turned out accolades at the Pony Club camps of the future. Watch this space…

Sam Watson

Slave labour at the Watsons!!! Now we know why everything is so immaculate. @watsoneventing #childabuse pic.twitter.com/WuUxI24vprSlave labour at the Watsons!!! Now we know why everything is so immaculate. @watsoneventing #childabuse pic.twitter.com/WuUxI24vpr— Esib Power (@powereventing) October 26, 2015— Esib Power (@powereventing) October 26, 2015

It’s all go at eventer Sam Watson’s base in Ireland, as sons Toby and Archie get to work with making the place look tidy… until something else looks a lot more interesting.

Nick Gauntlett

Getting ready for @Whatley_Manor @GatcombeHTrials & Henry has taken it upon himself to clean my @AriatEurope boots pic.twitter.com/HstHmJlGq6Getting ready for @Whatley_Manor @GatcombeHTrials & Henry has taken it upon himself to clean my @AriatEurope boots pic.twitter.com/HstHmJlGq6— Nick Gauntlett FBHS (@nick_gauntlett) September 10, 2015— Nick Gauntlett FBHS (@nick_gauntlett) September 10, 2015

Gloucestershire-based eventer Nick Gauntlett’s son Henry might be able to fit in his dad’s Ariat boots, but he’s doing his best to get them shiny.

Good work Henry! pic.twitter.com/Sxjgxsh5p7Good work Henry! pic.twitter.com/Sxjgxsh5p7— Nick Gauntlett FBHS (@nick_gauntlett) July 1, 2015— Nick Gauntlett FBHS (@nick_gauntlett) July 1, 2015

And Henry’s not afraid to get his hands dirty with some poo-picking in the school too.

Continued below…

(Image credit: Alamy Stock Photo)

9 things we got up to at Pony Club camp that we’re sure wouldn’t happen now

Harry Meade

Lily Meade knows how to keep out of the way when she’s accompanying her dad Harry to events…

… and she’s equally happy to lend a hand at home in West Littleton, Wiltshire with fence building too. When she’s dealing with bigger poles, we suggest she ropes in little brother Charlie as her assistant…

Trevor Breen

The globetrotting life of a showjumper means that finding time to try out saddles can be tricky. Which is when Trevor Breen’s daughter Mia comes into play.

Choc Thornton

Jockey Choc Thornton’s son William is kitted out to deal with the hosepipe.

Ben Pauling

National Hunt trainer Ben Pauling’s daughter Tilia doesn’t seem too bothered about where her pram is…

…even if there is an aroma of manure.

But asking her to do the paperwork might be one step too far…

Trevor Breen’s ride put down after tendon injury

Hannah Lemieux — Thu, 22 Oct 2015 13:00:27 +0000

Trevor Breen’s ride Master Daragh has been put down following ongoing injury complications.

The tough decision was made by the Irish rider and his parents-in-law Heather and Ian Black, who owned the 10-year-old gelding known as ‘Buzz’.

Trevor found the Irish-bred gelding as a seven-year-old.

The son of Master Imp, who jumped at CSI5* shows with Trevor, had not been seen on the showjumping circuit since 2014, due to a serious tendon injury.

“I have a feeling he picked up the injury at the back end of 2013 during a grid work session, when he landed awkwardly, but I can’t be sure,” Trevor told H&H.

“At the time, the vets and physio couldn’t find anything wrong him, but he just wasn’t jumping the same. He started losing about 10cm of scope, having fences down and sometimes taking off a stride early.

“At Vilamoura in 2014 I knew he wasn’t the same horse I had ridden five months ago — he wasn’t lame, but I knew he was a better horse than that. I came home determined to find out what the problem was because I knew there was one.”

The gelding was admitted to Newmarket Equine Hospital where it was discovered he had a 6cm vertical tear in a front tendon.

“Afterwards he went in the field and we spent a year trying to get him back. But the leg just got worse in the field because he was too active. He was never going to make it back jumping. He was a sharp horse so we couldn’t have sold him as a happy hack,” added Trevor.

“We struggled with the call because he was a nice horse, but it was the best decision for him. There was no point putting him through a hard winter in the field and then deciding to put him down next summer.”

Trevor Breen: Addy doesn’t owe me anything H&H VIP

Horse & Hound — Tue, 11 Aug 2015 07:55:22 +0000

The Royal International is always a great show. The weather forecast at the start of the week wasn’t so good but by the end it was gorgeous — and that always helps to make any show feel a bit more special. To my eye, the crowds were up, the stands were all full for the big classes and there was an excellent atmosphere.

Ireland didn’t have a team for the Nations Cup, which was disappointing, but it was still a really enjoyable class for me to watch and to walk the course.

The jump-off was an exciting conclusion and you would have definitely picked Beezie Madden as the favourite going in. She turned a bit tight and it went wrong for her but it shows everyone has an off-day.

Janika Sprunger had a cracker of a round and I didn’t think it could be beaten, only for Pieter Devos to take nearly 2secs off. Beezie more than made up for the error by going on to win the King George V Gold Cup.

It would’ve been the perfect end to the fairy tale if Adventure De Kannan (pictured at the Derby meeting) could have won for me and added the final piece to the puzzle. Although the full house of classics wasn’t to be, he is still a great horse, especially at Hickstead.

He jumped his heart out, as he always does on a big day. He knows when I try and he does too — and I was really trying on Sunday. He jumped the first, second and third and the treble superbly and I thought it was going really well. We got to the gates the way I wanted but he clipped it behind — it was just one of those things. They took a lot of jumping and I was victim to it as well.

The horse was fantastic and all I can ask of him is his best. One thing is for sure — Addy doesn’t owe me anything. He’s been my top horse for six or seven years and I’ll never be annoyed or disappointed with him. He’s been an unbelievable servant for me and his owner Karen Swann.

Up against five-star riders

When I walked the course for the King George, I didn’t think it was a killer. I expected eight to 10 clears but it turned out to be more difficult, with only six going through.

The gates played their part but everywhere needed care — especially the combination and the last line to the Bunn Leisure oxer. Course-designers Kelvin Bywater and Bob Ellis got it spot-on.

I watched Hickstead on TV growing up and it’s a show I always try and gear towards. I’m lucky I have two really good Derby horses, so at the Derby meeting I knew I had a chance.

Going to the Royal International is a different experience, and I’d be an outsider to win the grand prix here — you’re pitched against five-star riders such as Beezie, Marcus Ehning and Christian Ahlmann. I don’t get to jump at five-star shows week in and week out and it’s great to be up against them.

I won the first day here in the 1.45m Bunn Leisure vase with Georgie D’Auvray. He’s only nine and a relatively new ride — there’s a lot more to come from him.

As an Irishman, Dublin is the pinnacle. Hickstead the week before is ideal for getting the horses up to speed at five-star level. I’m hoping for good results in Dublin to put myself in contention for future Nations Cups.

Ref: Horse & Hound; 6 August 2015

10 hairy moments at Hickstead Derby Meeting [PICTURES]

Madeleine Silver — Mon, 29 Jun 2015 17:08:55 +0000

Horse & Hound's coverage of The Equestrian.com Hickstead Derby Meeting (24-28 June) is brought to you in association with Equestrian.com

Trevor Breen might have sailed around yesterday’s (28 June 2015) Equestrian.com Hickstead Derby track with the only clear round, making it consecutive wins in the class for the Irishman — this year with the 16-year-old gelding Loughnatousa WB. No mean feat, considering that is only the 57th clear round in the class’s 55-year history.

But during five days of top class action from the All England Jumping Course, it was never going to run like clockwork for everyone. And our photographers were on hand to catch those moments when the side door beckoned… A stiff drink might be needed to settle your nerves after looking at these.

Hickstead Derby Meeting 2015 in pictures

1. Trevor Breen and Loughlatousa WB

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

The excitement gets too much for the Hickstead Derby winner Loughlatousa WB

2. Derek McCoppin and Zhan A

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Derek McCoppin and Zhan A slide to a halt in the Speed Derby

3. Ellen Whitaker and Le Beau

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Le Beau performs a handstand for Ellen Whitaker in the Speed Derby

Continued below…

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

15 riders reach the point of no return

We’ve all been there — one minute you’re enjoying the ride of your life and the next you experience that

4. Johnny Pals and Fajoecha

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

A crash landing for Johnny Pals and Fajoecha in the Speed Derby

5. Phillip Miller and Caritiar Z

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Phillip Miller and Caritiar Z make a splash in the Derby class

6. Robert Whitaker and USA Today

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

USA Today is raring to go in the Derby Trial

7. David McPherson and Gloria Van Zuuthoeve

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

David McPherson does his best to hang onto Gloria Van Zuuthoeve in the Derby Trial

8. Ben Walker and Text Back

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Ben Walker and Text Back get into trouble in the Derby Trial

9. Jay Halim and Abrisco

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Things don’t go too smoothly for Jay Halim and Abrisco in the 1.35m open championship

10. Clark Glasgow and Corlando Of Cavallini

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Clark Glasgow and Corlando Of Cavallini get into a spot of bother in the Derby class on Sunday

Don’t miss our full report from this year’s Hickstead Derby, brought to you in association with Equestrian.com, in 2 July issue of Horse & Hound magazine

The ‘one-eyed wonder horse’ like you’ve never seen him before [PICS]

Madeleine Silver — Sat, 23 May 2015 08:55:08 +0000

When Adventure De Kannan won last year’s Hickstead Derby with Trevor Breen, the one-eyed champion soared to fame.

To celebrate their achievement, a series of unique photos have been released of the pair ahead of next month’s Derby meeting (25-28 June 2015), where they will be aiming to reclaim the title.

The All England Jumping Course at Hickstead commissioned equine photographer Matthew Seed to create the series of Trevor and ‘Addy’, and the image voted the most popular by Hickstead’s social media fans will be displayed at this year’s show before being auctioned to raise funds for the Mark Davies Injured Riders’ Fund.

“Winning the Hickstead Derby is a phenomenal achievement for any horse and especially so for ‘Addy’, considering he only has one eye,” says Cheshire-based photographer Matthew Seed. “I was delighted to be approached by the Hickstead team and asked to produce these images to commemorate Trevor and Addy’s achievements.”

Matthew spent the day at the Buckinghamshire yard Trevor shares with his wife Caroline, also a showjumper.

“We had a fantastic day with Trevor and his family, and I think the resulting photos really capture the amazing bond between Trevor and his horse. I’ve worked with lots of horses but Addy was one of the easiest equine models — he was endlessly patient and stood beautifully throughout.

As well as winning Hickstead’s most famous class, the Derby, Trevor and Addy have won nearly every major class at the showground, including the Speed Derby, the Elizabeth II Cup, the All England Grand Prix and the Eventing Grand Prix.

And on top of his success at Hickstead, Addy — who returned to top level competition after an operation to remove his right eye in 2013 — has won numerous international grands prix and represented Ireland on Nations Cup showjumping teams.

“Trevor and Addy have an incredible record at Hickstead — no other horse has won such an array of major titles at our shows,” says Lizzie Bunn, Hickstead director.

“We wanted to mark his achievements in some way, so we approached Matthew Seed about creating this very special photoshoot. We think the resulting images are truly spectacular, with each photograph forming a work of art. We are very much looking forward to seeing which of the final seven images is selected to be displayed and auctioned at this year’s Derby meeting.”

Hickstead Derby winner proves he isn’t a ‘one-trick pony’

Amy Mathieson — Tue, 11 Nov 2014 16:55:19 +0000

Hickstead hero Adventure De Kannan showed he is a multi-disciplined talent last week when he took part in a combined training competition — and won his class.

The one-eyed wonder reached worldwide fame when winning the Hickstead Derby in the summer.

He might be more used to tackling fearsome obstacles such as the Devil’s Dyke and the Derby Bank than putting in some fancy footwork but he excelled with owner Karen Swann in Ireland.

“Addy” took part in a combined training class on Sunday 2 November at Raheen-na-gun Stud, Co Kilkenny.

Karen told H&H it was her first dressage test in three years and her first jumping track in seven.

And the pair didn’t disappoint — they achieved the best dressage score in their class.

They finished on their dressage mark of 28.5, ahead of Naomi Sharpe and Jazz on 30.

Addy will be spending the winter with Karen in Ireland, the rest of the year he lives with regular rider, and Hickstead Derby-winning partner, Trevor Breen in Buckinghamshire.

The popular 14-year-old gelding had his eye removed in 2013 due to an ongoing issue. Since then his profile has rocketed.

He was propelled into the spotlight when he triumphed in the Derby — after finishing in the runner up spot in 2013.

Addy graced the cover of H&H (3 July issue) as well as being featured in mainstream media after winning by just 0.02s in the jump off — ahead of 2013 winners Phillip Miller and Caritiar Z.

However, he was already an expert at the West Sussex venue. He took the speed derby in 2009 and the eventing grand prix in 2012. In August he won the prestigious Queen’s Cup.

“The King George is all he has left to win at Hickstead but that’s as big a task as any,” said Irish showjumper Trevor.

“He’s just a phenomenal horse who loves that arena.

“He’s a Trojan of a horse. His heart makes him special. He does everything I ask him to whether he can or not, and if he can’t he’ll try anyway.”

(Image credit: David Ramos/Getty Images)

Adventure De Kannan jumps in to the history books

Trevor Breen and the one-eyed Adventure De Kannan conjure up a unique feat at Hickstead

(Image credit: David Ramos/Getty Images)

7 famous one-eyed horses who have excelled in their careers

Hickstead superstar NOT set to become health food snack

Horse & Hound — Thu, 16 Oct 2014 09:51:01 +0000

We recognise that horse! H&H readers were shocked to spot Hickstead hero Adventure De Kannan accompanying a story about horsemeat on the Daily Mail online earlier this week (14 October, 2014).

Although fans of the one-eyed wonder horse expressed disgust and horror at the website’s use of the photo (see below), H&H is sure there is no cause for panic and Addy can sleep soundly at his home in Buckinghamshire.

“Absolutely sickened to have clicked on the Daily Mail this morning and seen they are using Trevor Breen’s horse Adventure de Kannan for an article regarding horses being used for human consumption,” said one irate reader.

The website quickly replaced the image — clearly realising the error of using one of the country’s most popular showjumpers to illustrate this particular story.

Addy’s regular rider Trevor Breen told H&H: “I’ve been away, but my wife told me she’d seen it. His owner [Karen Swann] was quite upset about the whole thing, so we’re pleased it’s been taken down. We’re not sure how he got on there in the first place.”

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Addy, who had his eye removed in 2013 due to an ongoing issue, was propelled into the spotlight when he won the Hickstead Derby this summer.

The horse has an excellent record at the West Sussex venue — taking the speed derby in 2009 and the eventing grand prix in 2012.

And he was back in ribbons last week too — taking the Grandstand Trophy at the Horse of the Year Show.

The Daily Mail story was entitled “Horse, a healthy change to crisps: Biltong snack launches as healthy, high protein alternative to junk food”.

The snack has been launched by Musclefood.com as a health food for fitness fanatics and is reportedly a form of biltong, which is normally made from beef.

It is said to only have 114 calories in a 50g pack and is made in Belgium from Belgian horses.

Last year the horse world was horrified to discover some beef products were being sold that contained horsemeat — including lasagnes from Findus that were found to be 100% equine.

Princess Anne then created a further media storm when she suggested the ideal of eating horses as a potential solution to the ongoing equine welfare problem.

Adventure De Kannan jumps in to the history books

Jennifer Donald — Sat, 02 Aug 2014 15:41:59 +0000

The Hickstead phenomenom that is Adventure De Kannan returned for a glorious triumph in the Templant Events Queen Elizabeth II Cup on Saturday (2 August) with Irishman Trevor Breen.

This year’s Hickstead Derby winners already have the speed Derby, the eventing grand prix and the national grand prix on their illustrious role of honour at the West Sussex venue and now the prestigious Queen’s Cup can take pride of place on the Breen mantelpiece.

“The King George is all he has left to win here but that’s as big a task as any,” said Trevor. “He’s just a phenomenal horse who loves this arena.”

Trevor and Karen Swann’s one-eyed gelding took a long route round the water jump to the double in the six-rider jump-off but still soared home with a 0.05sec advantage over their nearest rivals.

The runner-up spot went to Robert Whitaker, winner of the international class earlier in the day, riding USA Today with Laura Kraut third with Nouvelle.

Don’t miss the full report from the Queen’s Cup and all the action from the Royal International Horse Show in Thursday’s issue of Horse & Hound (out 7 August).

Trevor Breen triumphs in thrilling Hickstead Derby

Jennifer Donald — Sun, 29 Jun 2014 19:54:51 +0000

Trevor Breen of Ireland and his 1-eyed wonder horse Adventure De Kannan today (29 June) won the Equestrian.com Hickstead Derby after a thrilling jump-off.

After an afternoon of non-stop drama, it all came down to a mere 0.02sec as Trevor went head-to-head with the 2013 title holder Phillip Miller (Caritiar Z), both having finished on 4 faults in round 1 in a year when clear rounds proved elusive.

First up, Phillip produced a 2nd 4-fault round, just succumbing to a rail in the Devil’s Dyke. But the Irishman followed in hot pursuit and, when the back rail of the privet oxer fell, Trevor and Karen Swann’s “Addy” accelerated home with no further faults – stopping the clock just a fraction quicker to take the famous Boomerang trophy.

“He’s a Trojan of a horse,” said Trevor, who won this at his fourth time of trying with the 14-year-old son of Kannan, who lost an eye last year. “His heart makes him special.”

Phillip Miller was nevertheless delighted to come so close to landing the double with the great grey “Carter”, another 14-year-old. A trio of riders finished equal 3rd on 8 faults – Jade Hooke (A New Era), Harriet Nuttall (A Touch Imperious) and William Whitaker (Glenavadra Brilliant).

Don’t miss the full report, analysis and all the thrills and spills from this year’s Equestrian.com Hickstead Derby in the next issue of Horse & Hound (out 3 July).

Trevor Breen: I’ve got an extra Derby ride

Horse & Hound — Fri, 20 Jun 2014 14:00:39 +0000

In the run-up to the Equestrian.com Hickstead Derby Meeting, Trevor Breen will be blogging about his Derby horse, Adventure De Kannan

The Equestrian.com Hickstead Derby Meeting is now less than a week away, and I can’t wait.

I’m pleased to report that Adventure De Kannan (pictured top) is going well after picking up a minor injury earlier in the season. I’ve been working on his fitness, going on the gallops and doing some canter work, and last week I took him to his first show since his return to work.

We went to the new CSI3* at Bolesworth to do some of the smaller classes, to make sure Addy was jumping fit and could withstand several days of competition. He felt really fresh, and was obviously pleased to be back out competing — he hated having to stay at home and he’s delighted to be getting lots of attention again.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

I’ve also got another horse to compete in the Equestrian.com Derby, which is really exciting. Patricia Brown’s Loughnatousa WB won the Derby in 2012 with Paul Beecher (pictured right) and was placed 5th last year with Michael Lonsdale, so he’s a horse with a great derby record. He seems a really nice horse, a little bit sharp, but he definitely wants to do the job. I’ve only ridden him 3 times so I’m in at the deep end a bit, but if things go right and we can click quickly, he’d have a good chance of jumping well.

I’d absolutely love to win the Derby and now I’ve got 2 horses capable of doing it, which is amazing. I want them both to do well, but I have to say, winning on Addy would be the sweetest because of the years of training I’ve done with him, and having come so close with him for the past couple of years.

There are no more shows for Addy between now and Hickstead, so I’ll just do a bit more training, jump a replica Dyke and practise on my Derby bank at home, and then it’s just a case of keeping him fresh and ticking over.

We’ll head down to the showground on Wednesday, with around 14 horses – 10 of my own rides and 4 ridden by my wife Caroline. Our daughter Mia will be coming too so it’s a bit of a Breen invasion! Caroline is hoping to do the Speed Derby this year, and it would be great if we could both do well in that class.

I love coming to Hickstead. My brother Shane is based there, so it’s like a second home to me. I love the tradition and sense of history of the showground, and looking at the boards that list all the past Derby winners, people like Eddie Macken and Paul Schockemöhle. To have my name up there too would be unreal.

Watch classic Hickstead Derby winning rounds

Be part of this year’s Equestrian.com Derby – join the Hickstead Derby Community

Trevor Breen: Adventure De Kannan injured

Horse & Hound — Sun, 04 May 2014 15:00:58 +0000

In the run-up to the Equestrian.com Hickstead Derby Meeting, Trevor Breen will be blogging about his Derby horse, Adventure De Kannan

After finishing 2nd in last year’s Hickstead Derby, ‘Addy’ (Adventure De Kannan) and I were part of the Irish squad at the Longines Royal International Horse Show at Hickstead. Then he won several national classes, before ending the season at HOYS. I gave him the winter off and then took him to Villamoura in Portugal, where he finished 2nd in the first two grands prix there.

All was going well and it was like he’d picked up exactly where he left off last season. But then we had a bit of a blow — at the end of Portugal, he picked up a minor injury which meant he’s had to have a few weeks off.

As professional riders, we do everything we can to prevent injuries and take all the safety precautions we can. But our horses are extremely fit athletes and however hard you try to safeguard them, unfortunately injuries do sometimes occur. I’ve been very lucky with Addy though, as apart from when he had his eye removed last year, this is the first time he’s ever had time off through injury —considering he’s 14 years old, that’s a pretty good record.

To help with his recovery, Addy’s been at the equine spa having laser treatment, as well as going on the water treadmill to help maintain his fitness. Recovery has gone really well and he’s just coming back into work. He’s working in walk and trot at the moment and we’ll build that up on a weekly basis in the run up to the Equestrian.com Derby.

There’s 8 weeks to go so I’m very hopeful he’ll be ready. It’s more about fitness. I want him to be back to 100%. Then again, we had the same time pressure last year when he’d had his eye removed a few weeks before Hickstead, and that worked out okay!

Addy did get pretty bored of being off work. He’s a horse who likes doing what he does — he enjoys jumping. That first day I got back on him he was like, about time, we’re off again! It would be very easy to do too much too soon with him, so I’m going to take it step by step.

Ideally I’d like to give him a run before Hickstead, but at the age of 14 Addy knows his job. As long as he can do his training at home, I’d be happy if we have to go to Hickstead as his first show back. The first day of the Derby meeting will be enough to blow off any cobwebs.

Talking of Derby training, I’m lucky in that I have a replica bank at home. Caroline and I were having the school extended so I used the excess soil to build a bank. It’s not as big as Hickstead’s, but it’s still really beneficial to have. Addy has always been great at going down the bank, but it definitely helps to have one at home to practise on to get them in the right mindset.

Want to have a course walk with a leading showjumper? Join the Hickstead Derby Community now to be in with a chance

Meet Trevor Breen’s Hickstead Derby horse: the one-eyed Adventure De Kannan

Horse & Hound — Sat, 29 Mar 2014 09:00:08 +0000

In the run-up to the Equestrian.com Hickstead Derby Meeting, Trevor Breen will be keeping H&H readers up to date about his Derby horse, Adventure De Kannan

I’ve always said that Adventure De Kannan (Addy) has a Derby in him. Our first attempt at the Derby was in 2010. He comes from an eventing background and he’d won the Bunn Leisure Speed Derby the previous year, so I knew he wouldn’t have a problem with the different fences. Addy is scopey, careful, and he has a great will to win — and those are all important attributes for a Derby horse.

That first attempt was just after he’d jumped on the Nations Cup teams in Spruce Meadows and Lisbon, and we pretty much went straight from Lisbon to Hickstead. He finished just out of the prizemoney on 12 faults in the Derby, having had the upright at the bottom of the bank, the water, and the open ditch at 13. But I thought if he could do that having had no proper preparation, he could definitely jump a clear round.

Clearing the Devil’s Dyke in 2010 (Image credit: creditUnknown)

We were 7th the following year, when he was clear except for the first and last parts of the Devil’s Dyke, which was frustrating as he’d jumped it the year before. Then in 2012 he came equal 3rd with 4 faults at the water. That was totally my own fault, as I didn’t get the best approach, so I was really annoyed at myself.

Last year I’d been so confident, I really believed he’d win. He’d been 2nd in the Bunn Leisure Derby Trial and he felt as good as he ever had. He was clear all the way to fence 13, when he just touched the open ditch — one of the fences he’d had down in his very first attempt.

My Mum had passed away a week before the Derby, so it would have meant a lot to me to win. I was gutted, it was definitely the worst 2nd place I’ve had in my life.

I’m feeling really positive again for this year. He’s 14 now, so ideally he needs to win it this year or next. If ever a horse deserves to win a class it’s him. He gives you everything, but you need a bit of luck to win the Derby.

How our partnership began

I first met Addy 7 years ago. His owner, Karen Swann, moved to Ireland to be with her fiancé, Keith Barry, and they’ve ended up living next door to my parents’ yard. We were asked to take Karen’s horse on DIY livery, and from there I started giving her lessons. I liked him straight away — he always had a big jump — but it wasn’t until I was asked to ride him in a 6 bar class that I realised just how good he was. It was the first time I’d sat on him and he won.

Karen was competing in 1.20m classes with him, then I took over the ride while she was recovering from an accident. Then Karen was pregnant with her first child, Bella, and I haven’t given Addy back since! It’s been great though, because I now have 4 of her horses to compete.

Addy had a long-term eye condition, and shortly before last year’s Derby we made the decision to have his eye removed. I think it must have been bothering him, but he’d never let on — which is testament to how good his temperament is.

Not long after having the eye removed, he won the area trial and the stairway at the South of England. He’s gone from strength to strength since and these days he’s like a different character — he’s much cheekier!

Be close to the action at this year’s Equestrian.com Hickstead Derby – join the Hickstead Derby Community at http://bit.ly/1oMbfFM

Laura Collett is back in the saddle after fall

Amy Mathieson — Thu, 08 Aug 2013 11:46:11 +0000

Event rider Laura Collett is back in the saddle and jumping her horses, after her serious accident last month.

“It’s very exciting to be back riding again,” she told H&H. “It’s all going well and I’m feeling fine. It just feels normal, and it’s nice to be back doing my usual things.”

Laura posted photos of herself jumping “Super Steve” aka Noble Bestman on Twitter this morning (Thursday 8 August).

“I schooled him at the weekend, but this has been the first time I’ve jumped him since my fall,” she said. “He was very good, and I’m not sore at all. I’ve been very lucky.

“They’ve all been very good, my head girl Felicity has been keeping them ticking over and Yogi [Breisner, British Eventing team manager] has been down to ride them too.”

She also had a sit on her stable star, Rayef, today (pictured).

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“It was lovely to be back on him,” she said. “He’s grand to school but he can be a bit naughty out hacking, so I’ve told Felicity she can keep doing that for the time being!”

Laura suffered serious crush injuries — including lung damage and rib fractures — during a rotational fall from Tis A Beauty at Tweseldown on 8 July.

She spent some time at Oaksey House, the Injured Jockeys Fund rehabilitation centre in Lambourn, Berks, after being discharged from hospital. But she’s aiming to be back competing as soon as she can.

“I’m still signed off eventing so I won’t be competing for a bit — but as soon as I’m allowed to I’ll be back,” added Laura. “I’m doing lots of physio at Oaksey House still. It’s hard work — mainly because I’m doing exercises I’m not used to. But it’s nice to know that I’ll be fitter after this than I was before when I was eventing.”

She added that she’s “trying not to overdo it”.

“That’s really hard for me, but everyone is telling me I need to be sensible so I’m trying to do that.

“I haven’t ridden Kauto Star yet — Yogi’s ridden him — but I might have a go next week.”

And in her absence last week (Thursday 1 August) showjumper Trevor Breen took the ride on Noble Bestman in the eventing grand prix at Hickstead. The pair finished 5th.

“It was nice to be back at Hickstead — I used to do showing there,” she added. “Seeing Steve in the eventing grand prix was great though, I think he was surprised to have such long legs round him. Trevor rode him beautifully, but it was very nerve racking watching — I’d much prefer to be riding.”

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But today, his family said: “After meeting with his team of surgeons in Hamburg, all seven doctors unanimously agreed that the next surgery was unnecessary for his healing process.

“Trevor can return home to England early next week and start rehab. As soon as his fractures fully heal, he can get back in the saddle, which we hope will be within three months.

“For now, Trevor has his neck brace off, and he’s walking around the hospital by himself—so much so that [his wife] Caroline keeps having to find where he is.”

Caroline told H&H on Monday that Trevor was put in an induced coma after the fall, and was then transferred to a top spinal surgery unit in Hamburg. Doctors originally said he may not be able to ride or walk again, but his prognosis is now much brighter.

“It’s a long road ahead and we have a long way to go, but if everything continues to go as it’s going now, it’s an amazing prognosis,” Caroline said at the time.

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“Cato Boy arrived in Dubai as a three-year-old and he was shown to his owner Nikki and he was absolutely the wrong horse for her to buy just because he was far too big, but she absolutely fell in love with him,” explained Shane.

“He’s a lovely character, he’s a bit playful and he bounces around with me sometimes, but it’s nice that he’s enjoying himself,” said Shane.

“I had Cato Boy in Arezzo for three weeks, he jumped very well down there. He’s in great form this year. He’s 10 now and he’s maturing, he’s giving me a really good feeling.

“He’s very fresh, which is a good way to have them, so now it’s just a case of getting a bit more experience in a few more rings, just to get him crafty in the ring.

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