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The year of the golden oldie


  • This has been a year where the Britain has been led to glory by slightly older but incredibly experienced riders such as Geoff Billington and Mary King (pictured). In today’s Horse & Hound (18 October ’07), journalist Pippa Cuckson examines why the oldies have stolen a march on the younger competitors this year.

    Eventing’s world class performance manager Yogi Breisner explains: “You need years of experience to consistently produce horses to an international standard. Mature riders are not a hindrance to the team. They help, as they set the parameters and show where it needs to raise its game.”

    The stars of 2007

    • Geoff Billington, 52, winner of the 2007 Hickstead Derby on Cassabachus
    • Mary King, 46, individual silver and team gold medallist at the European eventing championships with Call Again Cavalier
    • Tina Fletcher, 42, returned to the limelight after a 14-year gap to capture the Queen Elizabeth II Cup on Overa

    Don’t miss Pippa Cuckson’s entertaining feature in this week’s Horse & Hound, on sale Thursday 18 October

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