KYRBY BROWN AND SAMBUCA

KYRBY’S 15-hour round trip reaped rewards with victory in the grade II silver championship. It was easily the biggest win to date for the Essex-based rider, who first sat on a pony when she was just three.

“My gran was the one who suggested riding as a therapy,” said Kyrby, who was born with arthrogryposis (curved joints). “My biggest problem is the asymmetry of my body, but the riding is such a help.”

Kyrby has had “Sam” for just over two years, after posting a plea on Facebook for a potential para horse. Laura Johnson got in touch to offer Sam and the partnership was an immediate hit.

“I went to try him and it was pretty much instant,” said Kyrby. “He has a fab temperament, lovely paces and doesn’t spook. And that was one of the best tests we’ve produced in competition.”