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At the halfway point in the Summer Pony Premier series, riders flocked to Coombelands Equestrian to take on the Blue Chip Pony Newcomers Second Round in a bid to qualify for a place at the prestigious Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) in October.
Ben Townley’s challenging course, which started at 1.10m, saw 79 starters reduced to 20 after one round, which was further reduced to seven who would advance to the jump-off. As five combinations jumped clear, the results would come down to speed and accuracy around the shortened and heightened course.
Fourteen-year-old Emily Gulliver, who has hit a purple patch of success recently having secured five tickets to HOYS, was the ultimate winner. Keeping tight lines, Emily piloted Ben Gulliver’s nine-year-old Fantastik Due Rieu, and the only 138cm pony in the class, into top spot in a time of 35.25, as well as picking up fourth with her other ride, Renkum Kickstart. Hollie Gerken slotted Jonkers Keyano into second whilst Michael McColm secured third aboard Legend Scais.
“I’m really pleased to have Fanta win the class. She’s so lovely, there is never a question of if the fence is too big.” exclaimed Emily.
“I produced Fanta myself; we got her about two years ago and before that she had never jumped bigger than 90cm! She was very green and has come on so much, I’m very proud of her.
“I’m so excited to be going to HOYS again, I love going and I’m hoping to also qualify for the Pony Showjumper final too.”
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Coombelands Equestrian Summer Pony Premier - Saturday, 15 June 2024
Blue Chip Pony Newcomers Second Round
1st – Emily Gulliver and Fantastik Due Rieu - 0/0/0 35.25
2nd – Hollie Gerken and Jonkers Keyano - 0/0/0 35.58
3rd – Michael McColm and Legend Scais - 0/0/4 36.46
NB: Results pending official grading.
Image: LRG Photography