Impressive treble for Millis
Exciting younger horses create a stir across the levels
LOCKDOWN training has paid off for Sarah Millis, whose “orange pocket rocket” Impressive VDC scored a prix st georges (PSG) double on his first attempt at the level.
“He went well in the six-yearold classes last year, but I’ve had that bit of extra time to build on his strengths,” said Sarah of the Charmeur gelding she bought as a youngster from Equine Elite, who scored more than 74% on the second day. “He’s an intelligent horse and enjoys his work.”
Sarah’s novice 39 winner, Kodora SRV, was another Equine Elite auction buy.
“As soon as I sat on Dora, I thought, ‘I love this’,” said Sarah of Kate Moisson’s five-year-old mare. “She has such lovely natural balance, with a willing attitude and a big engine. And she was super-bold, for her first show.”
Lucy Howard took the novice 23 outright with Wind Chimes, the five-year-old Wild Child daughter she has produced with the help of Maureen Chamberlain and Eliza Stoddart.
“We started affiliated competition last autumn and she has quickly racked up some decent scores,” said Lucy of the petite mare, who stands 15hh. “We are forming a great partnership.”
The show’s highest score went to Luis Vilhena and his fouryear-old stallion Loves Black
STH I, who headed the prelim 17 with 79.66%. The precocious youngster, nicknamed Malegro, also claimed the novice 37, before scoring a gold section win in his first-ever elementary test, on day two, with Jane Littlejohn.
“His confidence was amazing,” said Luis. “He used to be really sharp and stallion-like, but as soon as he was backed he started giving me more. I’ve had interest, but I won’t be selling him.”