Coco finds his courage

An amateur rider makes headway at grand prix, while a traditional cob and an Irish Draught maintain their good form

- ANDREA OAKES

Kingswood EC, Staffs

“IT all came together,” said Belinda Brereton after a 70.11% grand prix win with Deco II, where he felt “light, relaxed and in front of the leg”.

Belinda teamed up with the 15-year-old gelding, previously competed by a junior rider in the Netherlands, three years ago. After learning the ropes at grand prix, “Coco” has been developing confidence at the level.

“He loves competing but he can be a bit sharp and panicky,” said Belinda, who divides her time and competition schedule between the UK and Ireland.

“We’ve taken time to teach him that everything’s fine and to listen carefully and we seem to be over that, which is really satisfying. I’m an amateur rider and he’s the second horse I’ve ridden to grand prix. Having him and another, Galaxy Moone, at inter II, is a lovely situation to be in.”