Orphaned foal grows into Show Hunter Pony Champion

Partbred Welsh pony Penstrumbly Our Latif made quite a statement at his first Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) winning The Binks Family 153cm Show Hunter Pony of the Year before going on to stand overall Champion with Victoria Thomas in the saddle.

Owned by Victoria’s dad, David Thomas, the Chestnut gelding did not have an easy start to life. Bred by Kath Hall, his mum passed away when he was just five days old and he had to be bottle fed. At three, Tiff, as he is known at home, won at the Royal Welsh Show in the Youngstock and was then bought by David as a five year old.

Now aged six, Tiff has just come to the end of his first season competing with daughter Victoria. They went Supreme back at the Royal Welsh and will now go back home to Swansea with of the most prestigious accolades in showing.

“It’s absolutely incredible,” said Victoria said after the class. “He’s just the pony of a lifetime and loves a crowd.”

15-year-old Victoria has had her own inspiring journey up through the levels at HOYS. This was her 16th class here following her first appearance in the Lead Rein Show Ponies. In 2013 she fulfilled her dream of riding in the Andrews Bowen International Arena when she finished second on her Welsh section A in the open Mountain & Moorland classes.

The pair will now go up against all other Pony Champions of the week in the Ruckleigh School Supreme Pony of the Year Championship later today.

“I’m thrilled for Tory,” said David. “We only do about 10 shows a year, so we keep him fresh and enjoying it. He’s a true showman and her best friend.” At home, Victoria and Tiff enjoy doing a bit of everything including plenty of hacking and riding on the beach.

Keren Fuge’s seven-year-old British Riding Pony, Stretcholt Roulette, stood Reserve ridden by Abbie Farmer. The combination won the 143cm section earlier in the morning and no doubt the bay gelding has a very bright future ahead of him.

Winners of the other two sections making up the Championship were: Warleigh Blushing Groom in the 133cm, owned by Debbie Thomas and ridden by Liberty Rebecca Grota; and Henrietta Till’s Greendown Monsoon in the 122cm ridden by daughter India who has had a hugely successful HOYS this year.

ENDS

Image credit: 1^st Class Images

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