HOYS - Day 1 roundup

Day one of Horse of the Year show 2017 got off to a flying start in the Horseware Bronze League Championship and Silver League Championship. Emma Sargeant from Staffordshire turned back the clock as she claimed a superb victory in the Silver League Championship on Fool's Business, winning two years after her sister Katie triumphed with the same horse. A jump-off time of 32.51 seconds meant Emma did enough to beat defending champion Rachel Walker, riding Bo Gi, into second spot, with Vicky Burns and Denzel II third.

The Horseware Bronze League Championship went to Bedfordshire's Abbi Jackson in emphatic fashion. Drawn first to go from 13 starters, she delivered a stylish first round performance on Christopher Robbin IV, then clocked 31.62 seconds in their jump-off to win by almost four seconds. Angela Mills and Quids In were best of the rest, taking the runners-up spot, with Southerly Roberts and Tinx finishing third.

The Connolly’s RED MILLS Senior Newcomers Championship was a tough fought competition with just two riders jumping clear and making it through to the jump-off. Sussex-based Nicole Pavitt continued her recent domination with a stylish performance to take the win aboard her mother Sandra's HC Cornet, leaving Adam Botham in second with Jerome Du Luot.

In the Talent Seekers inc 7 Year Old Championship, Chloe Winchester described her opening day win at HOYS as "what dreams are made of" as she took the Talent Seekers title with her 10-year-old bay mare Sportsfield Our Clare. Louise Saywell riding Mac Uwe finished in second place and landed the 7 Year Old Champion title.

In showing, prolific HOYS winner Jayne Ross began the 2017 event in trademark fashion as she guided 10-year-old bay mare Time 2 Reflect to an impressive win in the Ladies Side Saddle Horse of the Year Championship.

Beware Chalk Pit was on top form and took the SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse of the Year Championship. There were tears of joy as Ann Leftley’s 13-year-old ex racehorse Beware Chalk Pit took the honours. ‘Pete’, as he is known at home, won more than £9,500 over his seven year racing career, trained by Jonathan Geake. He ran his last race just two years ago.

In the Brineton Colne Mountain & Moorland Mini Pony of the Year Championship, a round of applause roared around the TopSpec Arena in appreciation of one fantastic pony, Thistledown Van-Der-Vaart,  who was crowned Brineton Colne Mountain & Moorland Mini Pony of the Year for the third year running.

The Price family’s superstar pony - and reigning Supreme Pony of the Year - Litton Enterprise made a stylish comeback to the TopSpec Arena on the first day of HOYS with a win in the Equissage Pulse Ridden Partbred Pony of the Year Championship. 

It was fourth time lucky for Mirv and the Purebred Arab of the Year title. Clare Fitch punched the air in delight as her ride, Mirv, was called forward to take the Simon Constable Equine Vets and Mr & Mrs Roberts Ridden Purebred Arab of the Year Championship. 

The Cuddy Working Hunter displayed a beautifully designed course by David Cole, although it proved tricky for many. It was not enough to deter Daniel Brian Carroll aboard Red Why Salute who answered all the questions asked and to take the win.  When Daniel Brian Carroll bought a five-year-old gelding with “no job to do” straight from the field, he had an inkling success was in the pipeline.

The evening performance was made extra-special with the 2017 Equestrian of the Year presentation which was awarded to Team GB Para-dressage rider Sophie Wells.  Fresh from her time on the podium at the Para-European Dressage Championships in August, Sophie was presented the award under the Andrews Bowen International Arena spotlight.

The bar has certainly been set high for what will undoubtedly be a promising week of talent on display at Horse of the Year Show, NEC Birmingham.

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Horse of the Year Show 2013

If you have been following my blog for some time now you will know that last year Mark got me a Polo experience day for my 21st Birthday. I had a fantastic day and since then have been dying to get back on and try it again. You can read how it went last year by clicking this link.

A couple of months ago we saw a voucher pop up on Groupon for the Vale of York Polo Club which allowed you to have a 2 hour lesson at a drastic cut of the price. Eagerly Mark got me the lesson and we declared we would go in the summer again.

Time flew and before we knew it we had an email from Groupon saying we had a matter of weeks left to redeem our voucher. After putting our heads together we decided seeing as we were going to watch HOYS on Friday we would then travel to Doncaster, stay in a hotel on the Friday night and then go for my lesson on the Saturday morning.

The Monday before my lesson and HOYS I came down with the flu and a chest infection which made me awfully sick, so it was touch and go whether I could go or not. However, it was the last day I could redeem my voucher, I had to go!

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HOYS was fantastic. We took a group of children from the yard with us which was nice. It seems like they all had a fantastic time and enjoyed themselves. I think for some of them it was overwhelming as they have never seen jumps so big, or riders so famous. Evidently it seems the way to keep them quiet is also to take them away from the yard. Don't worry though, Saturday they were back to non-stop talking!

Usually I go to watch the show jumping as I love watching the best riders in the world battling it out for the top prize money and rosettes. However this time I was keen to watch the Dressage Masterclass that had been advertised for the late afternoon. Last year I missed it due to spending far too much time shopping so this year I was adamant I was going to be there.

Upon arrival we found out it was the Eilbergs that were going to be hosting the master class which was exciting. I couldn't contain my excitement but clearly the kids with us could as 5 minutes before it was due to start they told me they were off shopping! I did let them know I was disappointed they didn't stay to watch something which could really help them. However they said "We'll be back for the jumping and pony games!".....what more could I say?

Michael and Ferdi were the two that arrived with Ferdi on the ground and Michael aboard a simply stunning 7-year-old chestnut mare. They showed us their warm up process with the mare and how they intend to keep her switched on but are being careful not to bore or ruin her due to her young age. It just shows Amy and I are doing something right with Ceaser as their warm up process was very similar to ours. Maybe this could be my claim to fame.....I have the same warm up routine as Michael Eilberg....Ok, I tried.

Every time the mare did a change of gait or showed us some lateral work the "ohh's" and "ahhh's" coming from the crowd could quite simply have made you believe we were sat watching the 50 shades of grey movie. Boy this mare is definitely one to watch for the future. They kept things simple enough so everyone in the audience could understand what they were doing, but technical enough for those who knew dressage to get something out of it.

Michael is such an elegant rider, everything just looks as if it is done with ease. If a chance arises to have a lesson with a member of this family then I will be jumping at the chance!

Thoroughly inspired I spent far too much money on Ceaser and Sara and in turn Mark also spent far too much money on me and Ceaser. We were spoilt and he treated us to a Le Mieux dressage square and half pad so that we look posh at our next dressage competition. I love the Le Mieux products and if I could afford it would cover Ceaser in them 24/7. Sadly with the hefty price tag I cannot afford to, but I now can't wait to use our new half pad and dressage square. Mark has warned me I'm not allowed to get them dirty. I'm under strict orders!

Although HOYS is a fabulous chance to do some shopping and indulge in everything horsey, it is also a great chance to have a look at new products on the market in the shopping hall and catch up with friends you haven't seen in a while. It was amazing the amount of people I spotted that I haven't had a chance to talk to for some time or even seen in years.

My new Headcollar

The rest of the day flew by, we had a brilliant time watching the show jumping, pony club games and walking past famous riders as we shopped till we dropped. "MARK, it's him.....it's...ahh...its Cian O Connor....there....look....were stood right next to him!" was embarrassingly one of many times I got a little star struck. I really should get used to this being a journalist as I never know who I will meet. Still, I think I am allowed to get a little girly at times.

The Supreme Pony of the Year; Nynwood Fantasia was totally deserving of the title. For a combination only 9-years-old between them they both exceeded their years as they came forward for the championship.

And that's it... it's all over for another year. Here's to 2014.

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On the 2nd day of christmas my horse gave to me.....

On the second day of christmas my true love gave to me....

These may be small enough to fit in the palm of your hand but I have found lots of uses for them. Not only are they a fantastic pot for all spare change in your car, they also that cute factor that everybody loves. 

The second product I want to recommend for my Christmas feature is the brand new mini TubTrugs that look just look the big ones we use for our horses water bucket, but just smaller!

Here's some uses I have found for them:
- Dog treat holder
- Coin holder for your car
- Horse treat holder
- Mc Donalds Ketchup holder for your car.. (yes, this is one of mine!)
- Hair band holder
- Hair grip holder 

These are just a few, but when I asked my Twitter followers they came up with hundreds! 

I paid £1.00 for mine from Horse of the Year show but my friends have told me they have seen them for as much as £4.50. It depends how much you want to spend, but these would make a brilliant stocking filler for any member of the family!

If you have any other uses for these that you just can't wait to share then please don't hesitate to tweet me @FurryMane and I'll share them to all of my readers. 

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Good Luck for HOYS!

As all equine fanatics may be aware, Horse of the Year show (HOYS) is literally just around the corner now. Tomorrow in fact.

I don't know about you but, all year I have seen endless facebook and twitter updates about individuals pondering over the dreaded "Will we, wont we" qualify question, or whether or not to enter the Search for a Star classes.

I've also seen the 'less' enthusiastic comments about one person qualifying over another and someone being jealous. I am sure in the world of competing seriously its all quite hectic right now as people prepare for their highlight outing of the season.

However, whether you're a competitor or spectator, I am sure all of you are looking forward to getting ready to travel down to one of the most famous horse shows in England and eagerly awaiting the doors to open.

With endless shopping opportunities, chances to meet and greet famous riders, watch the Pony Clubs battle it out for the Prince Phillip cup in the mounted games and much more, Horse of the Year Show is an attraction for all ages of the family.

I personally cannot wait to head down to HOYS as I experience what it is like to report from one of the biggest horse shows of the year. If any of you catch a glimpse of me please do not hesitate to introduce yourself and say hello! If I'm weighed down with shopping bags then also don't be surprised!

So, before all the excitements get too much and everyone forgets, I would just like to take this time to wish a few friends good luck at HOYS 2012.

Dominique and Chunky Monkey - Search for a Star - Cob class
Courtney Brown - Miniature horse classes
Georgi Wood - Miniature horse classes
Claire Cryer - Search for a star - Cob class

These are just four of many friends competing, but I would be reeling off a long list if I were to name them all.

Good luck to each and every competitor, enjoy the moment and smile at every opportunity. This your chance to shine and show off your equines.

Don't forget to check back to www.sianlovatt.blogspot.com for a full report of HOYS next week. I will also be live tweeting from the show all day on Friday. Follow me @FurryMane on Twitter to view the updates.

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One more step around the world I go...

So, I had to update and let you know what I've been up to this week. Despite it only being Wednesday I have had an action packed week that its making me tired just thinking about it.

I also have so much planned for the next up and coming few weeks that I am beginning to wish there were more hours in a day and more days in a week.

A few days after I graduated back in July I made the exciting decision I wanted to go back to university and get a higher level degree in some form of Journalism and ideally Sports Journalism. I knew I didn't want to leave the horses again and move away from home so I decided that I would look what the University of Lincoln had to offer. Thankfully they had a Masters degree Sports Journalism course and so I set about the difficult task of applying to get on to it.

I don't know why but I found applying for university this time round much more complex. At least for my undergraduate degree I had 5 options of where I could study and UCAS did most of the hard work for me. This was left up to me and it was worrying thinking how on earth I would pay for the masters course - with there being no student finance options. I had to write a 450 word personal statement basically saying why I deserved a place on the course, what qualities I would bring and why I had a passion for journalism.

A couple of weeks ago I submitted my application and all I could do was hope for the best. It was an agonising wait but sure enough that email arrived to tell me I had been accepted simply based on my references! I was over the moon to say the least.

My NCTJ accredited course at De Montfort University wasn't sports based at all. I could have chosen a sports journalism module to take in the third year but after discussing with the module leader what would be covered during the year I decided it wasn't the module for me. If I was going to do to sports I needed a course that didn't focus on the popular sports, like football, rugby and cricket. Equestrian journalism is such a niche market and I accept that, but I knew I needed a course that would allow me to explore equestrian journalism. So, in my final year at DMU I chose to study magazine journalism instead and absolutely loved it.

So, as you can imagine, being given the opportunity to study a sports journalism course is rather exciting. We are allowed to explore which sports we wish and unlike my undergraduate degree focuses a lot on broadcasting and radio; something I have not studied before.

Yesterday I traveled to Lincoln to enroll and am really looking forward to starting next week properly. I cannot wait to see what opportunities this course brings me - especially after the course leaders saying how many fantastic contacts they have. I am sure I will enjoy it. Look out for further updates as I now take you on my journey through a masters degree. I am adamant it will mean lots more hard work and time, but if it means I get the job I want because of it then I feel it is well worth the time, effort and money.

What makes it even more better is that I can stay at home whilst studying this time, meaning I don't  have to leave the horses behind during the week. This is something I found difficult during the three years of my undergraduate degree and am thankful I have the support to be able to stay near to home this time.

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Now, in horsey news, I am rather excited to introduce a new instructor of mine. I am having my first lesson with her on Sunday and am really looking forward to it. I haven't had a lesson in quite a while due to limited funds, but thankfully now I have my small job I can afford to have a lesson every so often. I am working on doing a medium dressage test over the winter and getting some dressage qualifications under our belt early on. My dressage score sheets always tell me I am pushing Ceaser on too much so this is something I really want to work it. His paces and collections have improved tremendously over the past few months so I cannot wait to be out competing in dressage again very soon!

I also have a new farrier and am absolutely thrilled with the work he has already done. He goes out of his way to please his customers, offer them advice and explain what he is doing and why. I told him I thought Ceaser's feet were too long and I wanted him to go without toe clips from now as it looked neater for when I am competing. Going without toe clips can help a horses conformation in more ways than one; not only does it make the feet look straighter if they aren't already, but it also doesn't show up conformation issues should there be any. I'm lucky Ceaser has good conformation but like the overall picture of clip-less shows better for when competing. Anyway, he obliged and agreed and has done a fantastic job on Ceaser's feet. I was sad to see my old farrier go but we are still in touch. Unfortunately he lives quite far from our yard and couldn't justify coming over this far anymore when he was so busy closer to home. However, we are all thrilled with the new one and happy with the results so far.

I also cannot believe how quickly HOYS is approaching. I still haven't booked my hotel for the few days I am there reporting. On the Friday the whole of the yard is going for a yard trip so that will be lovely. I think though that I need to get saving as can see it being very expensive with all those tempting stalls to shop on.....

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Sian Lovatt Equestrian and Journalism is going to HOYS!!

I am pleased to announce that I will be at Horse of the Year Show from Wednesday 10th October until Friday 12th October reporting both for Equestrian Life Magazine and this blog.

As well as this I will be live tweeting class results such as:
- Search for a star
- M&M classes
- Miniature Horse classes
- CHAPS coloured classes

and lots more!

If you or a friend are competing at HOYS please let me know so I can arrange an interview at a convenient time for you.

My email address is slequinejournalism@gmail.com or alternatively you can tweet me @FurryMane . If its easier then please leave a comment below this post with your contact details and I will get back to you. 

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