New York Skyline put down after field accident

Samantha Frost’s leading show jumping pony New York Skyline has been put down at the age of 18 after an accident in the field resulted in a broken leg.

Originally brought over from Ireland by David Broome for son Matthew as a four-year-old, ‘Billy’ as he was known, was discovered by the Pavitt family in an eventing yard.

He went on to great success first of all with Louise Pavitt, who broke records by qualifying him for the Junior Newcomers and Foxhunter and the Junior Showjumper of the year in 2001.

Sister Nicole then took him to the Pony Europeans in 2003, of which Sandra Pavitt says: “We were overwhelmed as Nicole was relatively inexperienced, but he was the pony of a lifetime.”

Sam Frost also enjoyed many victories with him in grand prix classes and was reserve for the Pony Europeans team. Her mother Alison says: “Sam did very well on him and we are devastated by his loss.”

Most recently Danielle and Tom Willett took over the ride, with Danielle qualifying for the pony championship at the Royal Show in her last year on ponies. Regan Willett comments: “He was unique, a very affectionate pony who will leave a big hole in our lives.”

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