H&H showjumping editor Jennifer Donald gives her tips for the H&H Foxhunter final at Horse of the Year Show:
1. Parvati de breve
7yo mare by Dollar De La Pierre
Rider: Laura Renwick, from Maldon, Essex
Owner: Mrs Julia Biddle
Laura seems to have a knack for producing Foxhunter finalists — she took the title with her brilliant mare Limelight De Breve in 2006 and was second with Oz De Breve last year.
This French-bred was second in the six-year-old championship at HOYS last year and won the seven- and eight- year-olds at Scope a month ago.
“She’s gained a lot of experience this year,” says Laura.
2. Waldermar
7yo gelding by Calvados
Rider: Stacey Babes, from Ayrshire
Owner: George Babes
Stacey will contest the amateur final and the seven- and eight-year-old championship here too, making the seven-hour journey from south-west Scotland worthwhile.
This combination were placed in the newcomers and grade C finals last year, so the NEC arena should not pose any problems.
The seven-year-old was bought in Sweden by Stacey’s father nearly three years ago and won the Royal Highland Star of the Future in June.
“He’s an amenable sort that thrives on the work,” says Stacey.
3. Wild Thing
7yo mare by Montrose
Rider: Anthony Condon, from Nantwich, Cheshire
Owner: Rachel Steels
Wild Thing first came to Billy Twomey’s yard as a five-year-old and then owner Rachel Steel rode her until coming back to the yard last Christmas.
Anthony, 23, who is stable jockey for Billy Twomey, took over the ride and they earned their HOYS ticket at the first Foxhunter qualifier of the season, but they’ve still had a busy year.
“She’s brilliant — she’ll be my best hope out of the two. I think she’s got a great chance,” says Anthony, who hails from Co Waterford.
For the full H&H Foxhunter form guide and HOYS showing preview, see the current issue of Horse & Hound (30 September, ’10)
- For more info about HOYS, including how to book tickets, visit www.hoys.co.uk
