Showjumping Highlights
Zak Beesley finds winning form, while the decision to choose a pony over a quad bike pays off for Luke Fitzgerald
THIS venue was one of the first to run affiliated shows after the relaxation of lockdown, and competitors were almost spoiled for choice recently, with two shows in the space of four days, both with classes up to 1.40m.
Preston-based Zak Beesley was the star of the opening show, riding Ultima 48 to victory in the 1.30/1.40m handicap. Since he took over owner Sharon Whiteway’s string in 2018, Zak has formed a great partnership with this Casall mare.
“She’s fantastic and is the sort of horse anyone would love to ride,” he said. “She’s been placed in world ranking classes and is an absolute winner. She loves her job so much that she hates being left at home.”
Because Ultima is now 16, Zak wanted to find a nice show for her.
“It’s better for older horses to keep going. Young horses can pick things up again after a long break, but the older they get the more difficult it is,” he explained.
“This was Ultima’s first affiliated show since lockdown, but we’ve been to every training show at Bolesworth. Nina Barbour is a gem who works so hard for the sport and it’s only right to support her.”
Zak, who currently has eight horses to ride and youngsters to break in, rode for the Billy Stud for more than four years before moving back north, half-an-hour from his family home.
“My mum and Sharon have been friends for a long time and it’s a great job. I love it,” said Zak.
Christina Kenyon has been in awesome form, and she returned here to take the top two places in the 1.30/1.40m class at the second show. Her winning ride was the experienced stallion Calypsos Rampant Million, while second place went to her earlier Foxhunter winner, seven-year-old FVS Stakkato Costa Million.
“It’s better for older horses to
keep going”
ZAK BEESLEY