Home-bred glory

Three generations shine as “Percy Pig” takes a title, a working hunter rider makes a dream return and an £85 cob takes first HOYS qualifier win

- by KIM WILSON

THERE were celebrations for the Rowfantina Stud as Rowfantina Principal Dancer secured victory in the mountain and moorland (M&M) lead-rein class qualifying for Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) before going on to be crowned overall mini M&M champion.

The five-year-old Welsh section A, affectionately known as Percy Pig, was bred by Mandy Burchell-Small and shown under true family colours, led by her son Oliver Burchell and ridden by his six-year-old daughter Isabel.

“This really is what it’s all about,” said Mandy. “To see my home-bred pony, led by my son and ridden by my granddaughter, win like this. I’m immensely proud. Leaving the yard at 3am this morning feels very worthwhile now.”

By Rowfantina Whisper Who Dares out of Rowfantina Prima Diva, Percy comes from proven lines. Prima Diva also produced Rowfantina Double Dutch, winner of the 2019 Royal International (RIHS) lead-rein of hunter type final.

“Our aim has always been to breed top-class ponies. While it’s not easy on a small scale, they're proving themselves year after year,” said Mandy. “I have to keep going - the grandchildren are very keen.”