Ones to watch

Paddock Rio (pictured)

Owner: Lynne Wilson Seven-year-old section B stallion by Eyarth Rio out of Paddock Pashmina. A 2016 and 2017 Cuddy in-hand finalist who has already sired a Royal Welsh winner in the (Tibbey-produced) yearling Walseker Colorado, unbeaten in 12 starts this season.

“Rio has been one of our biggest winners over the past two years. He is a good all-round example of what a section B should be,” says Colin. “He will cover some mares next spring before coming back to showing mid-season.”

Manorlea Maisie May

Owners: Clive and Beverley Abel Eight-year-old section A broodmare by Shawgreen Crackerjack out of Eastways Mayflower. “This is Maisie’s first season as a broodmare,” says Colin. “She has tremendous movement and qualified for the Cuddy in very good company in Scotland.”

Thistledown Patty-Cake

Owner: Sandy Anderson Section B grey filly foal by Thistledown Arctic Tern out of Paddock Pleasure.

Thistledown Franklin

Owner: Sandy Anderson Section B chestnut colt foal by Thistledown Artic Air out of Thistledown Royal Flower. “When trying to spot future stars, I like to watch foals playing in the field,” says Colin. “When I visited Thistledown Stud a few weeks ago I thought this pair showed great potential. I have high hopes for them next season.”