'Glamourcob' shines on debut

A Glamourdale son makes an eye-catching first performance as his sire stars abroad, while one rider's efforts reap rich rewards

- By ANDREA OAKES and OSCAR WILLIAMS

T&P QUEENS GAMBIT scored a clutch of prelim gold section wins on his affiliated debut before twice winning outright, with 73% and 79%.

“This was his first stay-away show and his first real experience of competition,” said Patrick Troddyn of the five-year-old Glamourdale gelding, who contested a young horse class last month. “He went into the first test very green. As he grew in confidence over the three days, his marks went up. Next thing, he’s at 79%.”

Bought as a foal, British-bred “Nelson” failed to impress when he was brought in from the field aged three.

“He was short and dumpy - I didn’t think he'd be my sort of animal,” said Patrick. “We nicknamed him 'Glamourcob', which stuck, but thankfully he’s grown up. He has a lovely demeanour - he’s a happy boy in his work, and that comes across. He also has a stereotypical Glamourdale canter, big and airborne, which earned him nines.”

Ever Sinfield-Day, 12, dominated at medium with Machno Excalibur, winning the silver sections and overall in both classes on day two.

“They've had a great year doing pony FEI,” said Ever’s mother, Harriet, of the partnership. “He's a real child’s pony: fun and safe, with a huge personality. They've worked hard with their trainer Alex Harrison-West, developing their ringcraft.”

Ever also headed the elementary 5 and was a medium runner-up with her Lusitano gelding Olá Jupiter. Bought from Portugal 18 months ago, the 15.2hh gelding was longlisted with Ever for the children-on-horses European Championships.

“He'd never done a dressage test before we had him, but he’s wonderful - an overtrier, who will do anything for Ever,” said Harriet.

“WE’RE MUDDLING THROUGH”

JODIE COOMBES’ versatile all-rounder Tattygare Last Delight scored a plus-70% outright novice 6 victory and a brace of bronze section wins.