The New Horizon Plastics London Arena hosted two Championships today: the Rising Star Cob Type Championship and the Rising Star Hack Type Championship. The Rising Star Cob Type Championship was won by Zoe Hyslop riding Knockboy, a striking palomino affectionately known as “Blondie” at home. Hyslop made an eight-hour journey from Scotland to compete, and her efforts were rewarded with an excellent Show. Speaking after her victory, Hyslop shared: “I feel amazing. He really deserved this. He’s a top horse and such a big part of the family, so it’s lovely to be crowned Champion here today.”
Among the inspiring stories in the Rising Star Cob Type Championship was that of Kay Gillam and her horse Victor 1. Gillam’s journey to the London International seemed almost impossible at times. Victor, together with Gillam since a three-year-old, suffered a broken leg at five, casting doubts on his future in Showing. Gillam also faced her own challenges, working tirelessly to regain fitness and be able to run the in-hand part of the Show herself. Thanks to the New Horizon Plastics London Arena’s Stewards allowing her to change into trainers for the running part of her Show, Gillam achieved her goal, winning the Rising Star Heavyweight Cob class and qualifying for the Championship.
In the Rising Star Hack Type Championship, Nicola Soltermann claimed the top spot with Stanleygrange Nobility, while Kara Roylance and Small Land Skylight were named Reserve Champions. Soltermann, who has owned her remarkable horse since he was a three-year-old, expressed her delight after the win; “I’m really pleased. All the hard work has been worth it.”
