Bella Ruby's best-ever

A grand prix mare finds new form, sibling stars share the spotlight and a home-bred novice makes a bold impression

- HELEN TRIGGS

ALICE OPPENHEIMER was thrilled with the performance of her “heart horse”, Headmore Bella Ruby, with a plus-71% score in the grand prix. The Bellissimo 13-year-old has only had one outing since last summer's nationals, where she was eighth in the grand prix.

“We've spent the time working on her balance, and there are still places where I can make it better,” Alice said. “But I came out of the arena saying this was the best grand prix she's ever done. She's always had the potential to be this good, but it’s just taken time to build her strength.”

Kathy Staples won at novice with Odaylia VD Watermolen and Valton S, and at medium with Le Blanc Ter Selle. Odaylia and Valton – both at their first stay-away show - are very different characters.