Gino is back at the top

The multi-winning Gino F returns to form for grand prix glory, while a young rider picks up several strong placings and a really special” mare is victorious

- SARAH RADFORD

SANDY MCLEAN and his great partner Gino F were back at the top of their game, leaving no room for contest as they topped a quality, 14-strong jump-off in the ALX Horseboxes major grand prix.

Robert Whitaker, a fivetime winner of this class, had set a strong midfield lead on his King George V victor Vermento, but Sandy unleashed Gino to use all of his stride.

This duo won big class after big class earlier this summer but then hit an uncharacteristic patch of faults.

“He came back from Italy in July with a bit of a virus and he hasn’t been himself,” Sandy said. “This weekend was the first time he still felt energetic and good by the third day. He came into the jump-off and felt electric.

“I missed one of the turns around the Arena UK vertical but it actually worked better; I don’t think it was any faster turning inside. He’s a bit of a different horse to ride indoors than outdoors and you have to take strides out with him to win classes.”

Sandy was the show’s top money-winner, having taken seven of his own horses to the show but also picking up four rides from Nicole Pavitt, who broke her collarbone on Monday. He is now also set to take over her qualified rides for Horse of the Year Show (HOYS).

“I thought it was a busy enough weekend but it turned into a very busy weekend!” Sandy said. “I am not complaining but in some ways it was also an unlucky weekend as I had the fastest time but one down about five times!”