Ellen Whitaker was on top form at the London International Horse Show yesterday evening, finishing second in the competitive H&M Ivy Stakes with Kanselier. Eric Van der Vleuten and Pitareusa were the only combination able to trump Whitaker’s 36.16 sec time – their unbeatable 34.65 sec jump-off score earned them the £4,300 first prize. Markus Fuchs took third place with Britain’s Ryan Prater in third.
Last night’s result stands Whitaker in good stead for tonight’s Links of London Grand Prix. “There is such a Christmassy feel, I love Olympia,” said Whitaker. “There is such a nice buzz in the air. Everyone is nice and cheerful – except the parents who are paying out all the money.” But having earned £2,600 in the Ivy Stakes last night, Whitaker has a good excuse to do some shopping at the stalls today.
Britain had more success earlier yesterday evening when Mark Armstrong took home the £1500 H&M Christmas Knock-Out first prize, with Geoff Billington in second place and Paul Barker in equal third.
