HOYS Talent Seekers goes to Daniella Johnston and Elton John II

Daniella Johnston and Elton John II win the Talent Seekers at HOYS — Daniella Johnston riding ELTON JOHN II, winner of the Talent Seekers (Incorporating the 7 Year Old Championship) during the Horse of the Year Show held at the NEC in Birmingham in UK between 6 -10th October 2021

(Image credit: Peter Nixon)

Daniella Johnston does not normally kick on Elton John II — but she did tonight, albeit only slightly, and it had the desired effect, as the combination won the Talent Seekers at HOYS.

Kate Johnston’s 12-year-old gelding, who is also due to compete as a working hunter on Friday, and Daniella took almost four seconds off what had looked an unbeatable time set by eventer Gemma Tattersall and MGH Candy Girl to take the class, which incorporated the seven-year-old championship.

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Eleanor is an experienced journalist who spent over eight years working for local and national newspapers before joining H&H as news editor in March 2016. Passionate about equine welfare and exposing the truth, Eleanor has reported on all aspects of the industry, from Brexit to anti-bullying campaigns, and from dressage rules to mules. Her sport of choice is showjumping, in which she competes her own horses, and she also enjoys reporting at local jumping shows through to international championships.

Fences Still Standing as Elton John takes HOYS title

“Doing the workers was his job but I thought I’d give this a go,” Daniella said. “He’s got so much heart and guts, and I thought ‘It’s one chance’.”

Tonight’s course was tough, with only six clears from 26 starters, and Daniella, who moved 15.1hh Elton John into showjumping after his 2019 HOYS working hunter win, admitted she thought it was “a bit decent” when she walked it.

“I knew I needed to be on my game and he was with me all the way,” she said. “I watched the first two go [who had 37 faults between them] and thought ‘Ah’.

“I said to Mum I just wanted a nice round, to get into the jump-off, and give him a nice experience. And I normally don’t kick; I think that was the first time I ever had, although only slightly, and he answered every question. He improved as he went round, I’m so unbelievably proud of him.”

Daniella is slightly concerned that having jumped the 1.40m track, Elton might goggle slightly at the much smaller working hunter fences he will have to face on Friday.

“But I don’t mind how he goes on Friday,” she said. “We’ll just jump round and have a good time. This was my big goal and he’s smashed it.

“It’s good to be back after a year off, especially in that main arena. That was a lifelong dream, and he’s made my dream come true.”

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