Sweet memories are made

A picture-perfect lead-rein contender, on-form young jockey and versatile Welsh section C shine in the supremes

- STUART HOLLINGS

BSPS Area 2B Lancashire Championships, Warren Farm, Merseyside

IT was a red-letter day for the connections of the lead-rein pony Derw Sweet Memories (Elsie) ridden by Esmé Phoenix-Phillips and led by her aunt Bethany Phoenix, who is normally seen aboard her successful hack, Molecule One.

They began their campaign by winning the non-Royal International (RIHS) mini-show pony championship, having already acquired their Hickstead pass on their season debut at BSPS Area 9A in March.

This victory allowed them entry into three supremes held indoors later in the day. They firstly stood reserve in the members final before going one better to capture the Pretty Polly crown under judge Ros Hargreaves.

Ros was full of praise for her winner: “My champion was picture-perfect, produced to perfection and a great ambassador for the home-produced sector,” she said.

This five-year-old mare, who is a full sister to the reigning lead-rein pony of the year Derw Dream Boy, then lived up to her name when she became Kath Vines’ choice for the overall supreme of show accolade.

“Being home-produced and doing all the work yourself makes results like this all the more rewarding, and the 5am wake-up call was certainly worth it,” said Bethany. “Elsie and Esmé are inseparable as she is the perfect child’s pony that just keeps giving. Last year we had some amazing results, finishing fourth at RIHS and ninth at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS). We’re looking forward to the season ahead.”