Jodie Hall McAteer won the Leading Showjumper of the Year grand prix for a second time at Horse of the Year Show in a thrilling finale.
Jodie, who triumphed in the same class three years ago, emerged victorious following a gripping jump-off that saw 71-year-old John Whitaker lead the chasing pack.
Olympian John, riding Equine America Unick Du Francport, clipped one hundredth of a second off Oliver Fletcher’s time aboard Hello William to lead the way until Jodie and Hardessa took centre-stage.
Their time of 32.53 seconds relegated John to second, with William taking third place and Olivia Sponer finishing fourth aboard Bingo Du Chateau.
British star Jodie paid tribute to her 14-year-old mare following a race against the clock that also included the likes of Robert Whitaker, last year’s champion Trevor Breen, Guy Williams and Jack Whitaker.
“She was amazing,” Jodie said. “She loves jumping here. We have been building her up and it is great to have her back jumping at this level. She is just incredible.
“I have had an amazing year, but I have been missing a win, so I have been a bit frustrated with myself. I am pleased to have got the job done.
“There were 10 in the jump-off and everybody is incredibly competitive. This means so much, especially as I have been coming here since I was jumping in pony classes.
“As a little girl I kind of dreamt of being in this position, so it is just special.”
The day’s penultimate international class – the Thistledown Investments Six Bar – went to Irish rider David Simpson, with Cindy R.
The competition saw six obstacles in a row that are raised in height after each of a maximum five rounds, with David the only rider that jumped clear in every round.
Three other combinations shared second place after bowing out in the final round – Robert Whitaker (Strike A Pose), Joe Trunkfield (Javas El Cid) and Holly Smith (Une Copine Van Overis Z).
ENDS
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Image: 1st Class Images