LOUISE Simpson and Unex Cognac IV saw triumph over adversity after a difficult year for the 11-year-old who had an eye removed eight months ago.
The West Sussex rider has been thrilled with his progress and took home a win in the Equestrizone CSI2* Two Phase at the Equitop Bolesworth Young Horse Championships.
Heading the class in a time of 29.96 seconds, Louise came home just ahead of Louise Saywell and her well-known partner the speedy Feigtling.
The Nottinghamshire rider galloped home in 30.91 seconds with Georgia Tame once again in the line-up, this time in third on Canya Dance.
Unex Cognac IV is another ride, Louise shares with her husband David and she is delighted to have him back in competition action.
Said Louise: “We’ve taken our time to bring him back and although I am aware of giving him an extra stride to fences when turning on certain angles the operation doesn’t appear to have bothered him at all.
“We will continue to build his confidence and take it slowly but I have no concerns he will soon be jumping on top form again.”
In the John Whitaker International CSI2* Two Phase, the honours went to Millie Allen on the Catherine Passmore owned Catara 4.
Said Millie: “I was early to go and decided to move on as there were a lot of fast riders after me. She’s a naturally quick mare and had plenty of confidence in the Castle Arena.”
Lancashire-based Zach Beesley and Ultima took the runner-up spot, the 15-year-old mare finishing clear in 29.28 seconds with Louise Saywell and Pls Halo Diamond holding on to third.
Picture Caption: Louise Simpson winning the Equestrizone CSI2* Two Phase with Sara Lamyman of Equestrizone.