Emily Morris hailed her “absolute superstar” Searlait ML after victory in the NAF Five Star Bronze League Championship on the opening day at Horse of the Year Show.
Shropshire-based Emily, who won the same class nine years ago, produced a stylish performance to finish more than two seconds clear of runner-up Danny Nicholson, riding Jarley VL, and third-placed Cassi McDade on Quality Touch Z
“It really hasn’t sunk in. I am a bit speechless,” said Emily, who triumphed after 11 combinations from 14 starters made it through to the jump-off.
“She is only six and she hasn’t been to many shows with this kind of atmosphere, but she just went in and performed as though she had been doing it all her life.
“I bought her as a four-year-old from a friend who had produced her. She knows her job, and she is an absolute superstar.”
Emily won with Ultimatum II in 2016, and she added: “That feels like a long time ago now.
“I think it is more special this time because of the horse’s age. There was a little bit of expectation as she has been on really good form, but anything can happen in showjumping and you are only as good as your last round.”
Mollie Smith, from Cheddar in Somerset, landed the NAF Five Star Silver League Championship with Church Park Elite, fulfilling one of her riding ambitions in the process.
Six of the 13 starters, including experienced eventer Louise Harwood, reached the jump-off, and Mollie guided her 11-year-old mare home in a time of 32.24 seconds.
That proved almost two seconds quicker than second-placed Abbie Shackell on Moet, while third place went to Madelaine Archibald aboard ESI Baltimore.
Mollie said: “It is amazing. I have been trying to qualify for this class for so long, and it has just never really happened. The horse deserves it so much.
“‘Ellie’ is really spooky indoors, and if we got through the first round I kind of thought she would have a shot. She is so special.
“I got her as a five year old. I know her inside out, and I trust her completely.”
ENDS
For more information on Horse of the Year Show 2025, please contact Horse of the Year Show Press Office, Grandstand Media Ltd. Tel: 02476 858205. Email: press@hoys.co.uk
Image: Mollie Smith and Church Park Elite – NAF Five Star Silver League Champion
Image credit: 1st Class Images
