Ben Maher’s Wonderboy III sold abroad

Ben Maher’s international ride Wonderboy III has been sold abroad. The grand prix-winning grey, owned by Ben and the Quainton Stud, has been bought by Ahmed Hamsho of Syria.

“It’s just one of those decisions,” Ben told H&H. “We wanted to keep him and we’d bought him with the World Equestrian Games in mind. But we have a couple of other very good horses now, so we’d made the decision to sell him if the opportunity came up.”

Ben has ridden the Flamenco De Semilly-sired Wonderboy III for 18 months, taking over the reins from Georgie Strutton in 2008. Ben’s victory with the 11-year-old gelding in the Rolex grand prix at the CSI***** in Zurich this year won him British Showjumping’s international performance of the month award.

Ben has no shortage of horsepower coming up through the ranks and has Nations Cup and WEG ambitions with his top ride Robin Hood W this year.

“Robin’s had a good rest so he’s ready to step up again,” said Ben.

Jennifer Donald

H&H showjumping editor

Jennifer is passionate at showjumping and her role as H&H’s showjumping editor has taken her around the world reporting from shows and interviewing riders, connections and those involved behind the scenes. Since joining H&H from BBC Sport in 2005, she has written on every subject across the equestrian sphere — from turnout rugs to stable management — and has interviewed gold medallists, world champions and winners galore. She also has first-hand experience of working in the equestrian industry as a riding instructor and yard manager.