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Northern horse, Wetherby, Yorks

PETER RICHARD’S two years old hunter charge Highlane Riley gave owner Joanne Rooke a first ever Cuddy ticket at the head of an exceptionally strong field of 19 finalists.

Judge Pauline Barfield had a long, careful look, narrowing her selection down to six before making her final decision.

Jonanne bought this athletic gelding, by Makanaky, as a focal from breeder Jane Appleton.

I’ve bought several from Jane over the years, including the successful small hunter highlane Milo, which Peter (Richmond) took to HOYS (horse of the year show) for me,” said Joanne.” “He said he ought to be going to shows with Cuddy qualifiers. But because qualifing is such a lottery. I didn’t build my hopes up”

This was the gelding’s third outing, having been supreme at North Yorkshire Country and a winner at Yorkshire Sport Horse.

“I’ve always liked him, and I thought that he just might do the (Cuddy) job,” said Peter. “ I’m looking forward to bringing him out under saddle”.

HORSE & HOUND 23 July 2009

HORSE & HOUND 9 July 2009

FUTURE stars reigned supreme in the breeding sections at a well – supported – if windswept – Yorkshire Sport Horse, where many exhibitors took the opportunity for a final pre-great Yorkshire (14-16 July) rehearsal.

And, despite some serious competition, it was a filly having only her second ever outing who swept the board in hunting ranks.

Peter Richmond’s charge, favourite star, by Ruben Star, was bred by Michael and Ross Croft out of a Petoski mare, Grace And Favour, who was given to them.

“ It’s not often you get a ‘buy one get one free’ deal in this game, but when we went to buy another horse, the owners asked us if we would take her too,” said Ross Croft.

“She turned out to be an absolute treasure and quickly became my husbands favourite.”

The mare, a successful riding horse, died unexpected at the end of last year, so hopes are high for her daughter, who left home for the first six weeks ago but stood second on her debut at Hambleton.

“We’re really looking forward to bringing her out under saddle,” said Elizabeth Richmond.