Bolesworth Young Horse showjumping report: Ivory strikes the right chord *H&H Plus*

The cream of the nation’s youngsters are displayed in a successful championships, while Jay Halim produces the round of his life to land the 69-starter grand prix

Al Shira’aa Bolesworth Young Horse Championships, Cheshire, 18–23 August

The Al Shira’aa Bolesworth Young Horse Championships have been a beacon of hope for producers during this turbulent year, and riders praised Nina Barbour and her team after this year’s event proved such a success.

The star of the seven-year-old championship was the exciting British-bred Don VHP Z mare Ivory, owned by Sean Conway and Helen Ray, and ridden by Danielle Farnsworth. Ivory is a veteran of two Lanaken world championships and was the six-year-old champion here under Matt Sampson. As well as picking up the £2,000 first prize and a share of the clear-round bonus, breeders Castell Sports Horses were rewarded for producing the best British-bred finalist.

“I can’t believe it!” said Danielle, who only took the reins seven weeks ago. “She’s had good form here so I had big boots to fill. She barely touches 16hh, but she has a massive stride and a huge character to make up for it.

Jennifer Donald

H&H showjumping editor

Jennifer is passionate at showjumping and her role as H&H’s showjumping editor has taken her around the world reporting from shows and interviewing riders, connections and those involved behind the scenes. Since joining H&H from BBC Sport in 2005, she has written on every subject across the equestrian sphere — from turnout rugs to stable management — and has interviewed gold medallists, world champions and winners galore. She also has first-hand experience of working in the equestrian industry as a riding instructor and yard manager.