CENTRAL Hargate Arena, Derbys | Quainton Stud, Bucks
Being exposed to farm machinery and animals jumping out of hedges is proving beneficial for Elaine CrossJohnson’s mare Half Moon Bianchella.
The pair headed the silver novice sections at Quainton Stud.
“I got her nearly a year ago, but we’ve only done a handful of shows,” said Elaine of the 10-yearold mare by Benvenuto. “I keep her at home on a farm, so she’s had to contend with pheasants and farm machinery, which has helped her brain. She’s quite sharp out hacking, but it means she is quiet and relaxed at a show.”
Elaine is working towards elementary.
“She’s easy to ride in a test and consistent in the contact; it’s just about ensuring she has the right amount of energy,” said Elaine, who trains with Caroline Hutley. “It’s been a matter of learning to press the right buttons at the right time.”
Liz Geldard and Plush Music scored a double prelim win at Hargate Arena — including a plus-70% score — at the eightyear-old gelding’s first ever competition.
Liz was given the ride two months ago by the horse’s owner and breeder Irene Brendle.
“He’s with me to gain some competition experience and, hopefully, to be sold as a para dressage horse as he can walk for a 10,” explained freelance groom Liz of the British-bred son of Desert Moon. “He scored nines for his walk at Quainton Stud, so I just need to check he has the right temperament and give him some more exposure.”