A picture of Elegance

A determined breeder experiences a memorable day of firsts, while a show hunter pony reigns with two sisters

- ALEX ROBINSON

Derbyshire Festival, Somerford Park, Cheshire

A NEW breeder’s foundation broodmare took home this year’s supreme in-hand title, booking her debut in the Price Family Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) in-hand final.

Brad Gleave’s 12-year-old Brindlebrook Elegance (Ellie), who is by Brindlebrook Prime Suspect out of Foxholm Free Spirit, oozed star appeal and quality before supreme judge Stuart Mason, who selected Billy Moran’s Irish Draught Corkeeran Willow as reserve.

Here, handled by Ian Boylan, Ellie achieved riding pony breeding glory en route to supreme victory. Brad took the lead of her foal, Balgarve Amore, a strapping filly by

Alonby Chardonnier, Ian’s home-bred who has previously qualified for HOYS himself.

Prior to joining Brad’s Balgarve Stud, Ellie was a successful ridden contender.

“What shocked me is that my first broodmare and first foal have given me my first HOYS in-hand supreme qualification at our first show together,” said an elated Brad, who fits showing in around work as a plumber and gas engineer.

Brad purchased Ellie from Liz Simpson of the Ribble View Stud last year, and so he began fulfilling his ambition of breeding plaited show ponies.

“It’s something I’ve always wanted to do and it’s where my main interest lies,” Brad continued. “The plaited pony classes aren’t as well supported these days, and someone from the younger generation needs to keep breeding quality stock for the future.”

Judge Stuart noted: “She was very correct, a beautiful mover and she’s done her foal very well. My reserve was also a lovely pattern of an animal.”

GOLDEN BOY’S DOUBLE

A SHOW hunter pony proved his worth as the ultimate child’s ride when he provided two sisters with victories in their respective HOYS qualifiers.