Fourth time lucky for Mirv and the Purebred Arab of the Year title. Clare Fitch punched the air in delight as her ride, Mirv, was called forward to take the Simon Constable Equine Vets and Mr & Mrs Roberts Ridden Purebred Arab of the Year Championship.
After being placed for three consecutive years here at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS), the nine-year-old gelding finally clinched the prestigious title on day one of the show. “We had started to think it might elude him!” laughed Clare. “I really feel he’s deserved it.”
It was also a day to remember for owner and breeder The Hon Mary Ann Wragg, who was watching from the ringside. “It’s been her dream for him to get it [the title],” said Clare.
Mirv has been with Clare since a yearling and has only been lightly shown this year at Devon County and the Arab National Championships. Often having other rides to take on in this class, this is the first year for a while that Clare has ridden him here at HOYS – and the result couldn’t have been better.
Later on in the week the pair will take their place under the spotlights of the Andrews Bowen International Arena to contest the Ripon Select Foods Supreme Horse of the Year Championship.
Katy Cotgrove’s Vartanii was placed second with Darren Crowe in the saddle, while Kirsty Nelson rode Len Morgan’s mare CS Lelisha to third.
ENDS
Image credit: 1st Class Images
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