Charles Le Moignan’s outstanding middleweight show hunter Principle Partner has lifted the prestigious McCusker Show Hunter of the Year title in his first open season. The reserve went to Louise Bell’s heavyweight winner Rock Star.
Principle Partner, who was picked out as a potential HOYS champion by Allister Hood in last week’s H&H preview, coped admirably with the unique atmosphere at the NEC to win his class ahead of Imperator, ridden by David Tatlow, on his way to taking the ultimate crown.
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The Fairburn’s Second Quest took the lightweight title over Advance Party, ridden by Katie Jerram, while second place in the heavyweights went to Tim Fairburn riding Mr Craft’s Sunset Blue.
The Bardo Ladies Hunter of the Year title went to Rooks Nest Farms’ Bournebrook Golden Law, ridden by Shelly Perham. Enduring Freedom took the reserve in this elegant class.
The mountain and moorland classes were as competitive as ever, with both the champion and reserve coming from the large breeds.
Jackie Webb’s outstanding Connemara Bunowen Castle RI was crowned Mountain & Moorland Pony of the Year 2005 after winning the New Forest and Connemara section.
Richard Telford was unable to repeat his championship-winning performance of 2004, and stood reserve on this occasion with Mr Ireland super Dales Village Defender, who took the Fell, Highland and Dales title.
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The Barr’s fantastic Shetland Southley Red Ember proved that size isn’t everything when taking the Dartmoor, Exmoor and Shetland crown, while the Welsh A and B class went to Katy Carter and the section B, Pittybeck Prince Charming. Jane Wyatt’s Drodge Da Pearly won the Welsh C and D title.
Lead rein class winner Gwauniarll Katie took the Brineton Colne Mountain & Moorland Mini Championship for the Cambray family, ahead of the First Ridden Pony of the Year Whitsand Warrior, who stood reserve.
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Carol is an experienced journalist and editor, who is also a passionate amateur rider and dedicated horse owner, having ridden since childhood. She has a particular interest in the emotional well-being and ethical training of horses, alongside veterinary matters, having garnered extensive first-hand experience of numerous equine health conditions through more than 30 years of horse ownership.
