Maxi masters supreme

A near-perfect score of 29/30 secures the top accolade for Jordan Cook aboard a coloured cob

- TRICIA JOHNSON

British Show Horse Association (BSHA) National Championships, Arena UK, Lincs

ANOTHER outstanding “showman’s show” from producer Jordan Cook, this time aboard Dena King’s first-season maxi cob champion, Pattern Master (Bruce), landed the second day’s McCourt overall supreme title. This gave Jordan a third bask in the Arena UK supreme spotlight this season – having triumphed at the Coloured Horse and Pony (CHAPS) championships and the UK Nationals on other rides – but it was blue and white Bruce’s launchpad to stardom.

Last of the seven champions to perform, Jordan gave a masterclass demonstration, keeping his show short, sweet, mannerly and uncomplicated, playing to this grand cob’s undoubted strengths.

The electric atmosphere raised Bruce’s game; two final go-for bust gallops were worthy of any top-class hunter and the obedient, soft return to trot, walk and final halt would not have disgraced a hack. A final score of 29/30 was a fitting reward.

Judge Pearl Underwood, who officiated alongside British Show Pony Society (BSPS) chair Pat Pattinson and in-hand specialist Mark Tamplin, had no hesitation in holding up a 10, swiftly followed by a 10 from Mark and a nine from Pat.

“This was showmanship at its very best,” said Pearl. “We were privileged to have such lovely animals before us, too.”

Mark, himself a consummate showman, concurred.

“This partnership ticked all the boxes,” he declared. “It captured the attention and held it right to the end.”