Clare Fitch barely had time to celebrate her win in the Simon Constable Equine Vets and Mr & Mrs Roberts Ridden Purebred Arab of the Year Championship, before hopping on board her Welsh section D for the next class in the TopSpec Arena on day one of Horse of the Year Show (HOYS). But no busy schedule could hide her sheer delight – and she punched the air as her ride AJA Giuliano was called forward to take the honours.
Whilst it was a first HOYS win for Susan Robinson’s grey gelding, Clare is no stranger to the ring, having taken the same title last year with another Arab she produced, Mirv. It’s been a great first open season for the six-year-old AJA Giuliano who also stood Supreme Champion at the British Arabian Championships and qualified for HOYS on his third attempt, standing reserve champion twice before clinching his golden ticket – third time lucky!
“It’s amazing!” exclaimed Clare. “We’ve had him since a yearling and showed him in hand as a youngster up until he was three. He competed last year as a novice.”
This talented horse has been in dressage training this year and will continue with his dressage over the winter. No doubt he has a very bright future ahead of him. In the meantime, sights will first be set on the Ripon Select Foods Supreme Horse of the Year Championship on Sunday!
Another six-year-old headed the final line up in this Championship; Signet, owned and bred by Judith Powell, took the runner up spot with Louisa Biles in the saddle.
Ends
Image credit: 1st Class Images
For more information on Horse of the Year Show 2018, or to request a selection of copyright free images, please contact:
Horse of the Year Show Press Office
Grandstand Media Ltd
Tel: 02476 858 205
Email: press@hoys.co.uk
