Elizabeth Bury’s Irish Draught, Lord Alexander (Alex), took the title of The Leeman Family Maxi Cob of the Year in the Championship’s ninth running at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS).
Stephen Norris has contested the Championship with Alex, a 10-year-old Chestnut gelding, for four consecutive years, but never managed to clinch the winning sash until today. He was delighted to finally do it in a class that he believes is stronger than ever.
As soon as Stephen saw the Cob as a six-year-old, he knew he had to have him: “His conformation is just top class and he rides like a Grand Prix show jumper.”
Alex has shown consistency throughout his career, having only been beaten five times over three seasons.
“He’s so rhythmical and balanced; you can shut down [in an arena] or ride him away [outdoors],” said Stephen.
Outside of the show season, Stephen hunts regularly and plans for Alex to go hunting over the winter for a change of pace.
Lynn Russell rode Baileys Horse Feeds’ nine-year-old Piebald gelding, Cappa Sham, to second place. They were also placed in this Championship in 2016 and 2018.
Richard and Lisha Leeman and the wider Leeman Family are delighted to give back to the discipline through generous sponsorship of both the Cob and Maxi Cob of the Year Championship. Their support also extends to other events including the Kellythorpes Leading Sire and Kellythorpes Leading Breeder Showing Awards Series presented here at the 2019 Horse of the Year Show.
ENDS
For more information on Horse of the Year Show 2019, please contact Horse of the Year Show Press Office, Grandstand Media Ltd. Tel: 02476 858205. Email: press@hoys.co.uk
The Leeman Family Maxi Cob of the Year Champion 2019, Lord Alexander ridden by Stephen Norris © 1st Class Images
