Sweet success for Chocca Nova

A confidence- boosting jaunt for a stallion results in success and Emily Morris continues a remarkable winning streak

- By SARAH RADFORD

IWAN CARPENTER and his 14-year-old stallion Merllyn's Chocca Nova had a “confidence-boosting” jaunt around the 1.35m grand prix, holding on to a one-second advantage in a 15-combination jump-off.

“I came to Aintree last week for the winter classic and we were a bit unlucky in the under-25s, and I thought I'd bring him up again as it was a nice class to pop him in before Kelsall under-25s in a couple of weeks,” said Iwan, who beat Lara Whiteway and Tullabeg Flynn to the win.

“After a big class it’s nice to drop him down and give him a confidence boost. I had a plan of keeping it quick and smooth and not doing anything stupid.

“He was good to me as we got a bit close into the double. He showed how careful he is, you can take him right up to a fence. He's a good horse and for a stallion, he's so laid-back.”

A RISE UP THE LEVELS

THE son of Centadel, out of a Chacco Blue mare, has been owned by Iwan’s parents since he was a two-year-old and was originally jumped by Iwan’s brother Morgan, before Iwan took the reins when the horse was seven. They have featured on youth teams from children-on-horses onwards.

“He's been super-consistent, this year he stepped up to 1.50m,” said Iwan. “He's been so good to me and he’s gone up the levels as I have. He’s almost had to be a schoolmaster. He's such a genuine, good horse.

“I have to thank my team at home as it wouldn't be possible without them and my mum and dad, who have supported me throughout,” he added.

"I USED TO FALL OFF ALL THE TIME"