Back-to-back titles

A returning champion adds another title to her collection, while first-timers make their mark

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LAUREN ASTON and Free Flo secured back-to-back national titles, adding the HorseQuest elementary silver to the novice silver they won last year, scoring 70.27%.

"To win last year at our first nationals was amazing, so to do it again feels a bit crazy," said Lauren, who works full-time in marketing. "I didn't expect it... I guess I just need to have more faith in her - she's brilliant!

Perhaps flying under the radar a little as they are competing in the silver category, Lauren and her eight-year-old Fürst Romancier mare are proving one of the most exciting partnerships in the country. They've won 15 of their 19 tests this season, and what makes the run even more impressive is that they are climbing the levels together.

"We're learning together. I've had her since she was two. We started at novice and elementary, now we're just starting changes and hope to get out at advanced medium this winter."

Free Flo has also developed a flair for the spotlight.

"She's an attractive, big-moving horse and she does love to show off - especially in prize-givings, when it's on her terms!"