... A CHANGE OF TACK

A LAST-minute change of tack paid off for Rachael Connor, who gained a decisive win in the Blue Chip Dynamic B&C riding Fantastic.

Rachael bought her eight-year-old mare unbroken and has carefully produced this daughter of Casantos.

Highlights last year included Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) qualification for the Foxhunter, in which they finished third, and Talent Seekers championships.

After Fantastic began to become stronger over bigger tracks, Rachael decided to switch from a hackamore to a combination bridle, including a new Nathe rubber bit.

“She had a long break after HOYS and this is only our second show,” said Rachael. “The tack change was a bit risky, as I didn’t even test the new bit at home, but it gave me more control as she felt a lot more compact.”

Eight combinations came through to the jump-off, where Rachael took the lead with a series of good turns and strides out to the double and final planks.

“She is naturally fast and careful, so we did all the short cuts,” concluded Rachael.