Headley Britannia proved that age is just a number when she trounced her much younger rivals in the Express Eventing showcase at the CLA Game Fair (21 July).
The diminutive 20-year-old mare led throughout all three phases of the competition to complete on 21.45pen for Lucinda Fredericks. Their nearest challenger, Sam Griffiths riding Real Dancer, scored 28.25.
A delighted Lucinda told H&H: “It was bliss. It was just like getting back onto your old comfy sofa.
“She was the ultimate professional and felt no different to how she was 5 years ago.”
“This competition is ideal for her because it is less physical,” Lucinda added. “She just loved all the attention and was immaculately behaved.”
Brit was officially retired at this year’s Badminton Horse Trials (6 May) having amassed 1479 British Eventing points. Among her greatest achievements were wins at Badminton, Burghley and Kentucky 4* events, plus team silver at the Beijing Olympics.
Although retired from top flight eventing, Brit is in regular work and is often ridden by Lucinda’s 9-year-old daughter Ellie.
