NORTHWICH-based Keith Shore held on to his early lead in the Bolesworth CSI 2* Two Phase in the first class of the day in the International Arena.
Having a successful season with the bay mare, Iron Lady Van T Meulenhof, Keith’s fluent round saw him finish just ahead of Durham rider, Annabel Shields and Creevagh Carisma at the Equitop Bolesworth Young Horse Championship.
Louise Simpson made her trip from West Sussex worthwhile, stealing the ride on husband, David’s, Jenson 55 for third.
Said Keith: “We’ve been busy competing abroad and it’s always good to have a win so close to home. She’s a talented mare and we have a great partnership.”
Keith has had Iron Lady Van T Meulenhof for 16 months and she forms part of his team of top horses.
Second placed, Annabel was pleased with how Creevagh Carisma stepped up when it mattered and is delighted with her progress.
Added Annabel: “I’m really enjoying the show and she jumped real in the big arena. There were places all around the course you could make up time and really keep moving on against the clock.”
Joked Louise: “It’s great to steal David’s ride, I’m only just getting use to him. I rode him at a show in Belgium last week but he is fairly easy. I’ve promised David he can have him back in a couple of weeks but the more I ride him, the more I’m not sure.”
Another local rider, Anthony Condon secured fourth on Zira vh Kapelhof Z, the grey mare owned by longtime supporter John Hales.
Georgia Tame took fifth on Clintofino, her ride in the Queen Elizabeth Cup at the Royal International Horse Show, when jumping clear only to cross the finish line with two time faults.
Picture Caption: Keith Shore and Iron Lady Van T Meulenhof.