James Smith and Dan IV Triumph in SEIB Winter Novice Qualifier at Aintree
Wednesday 28 January 2026
The penultimate SEIB Winter Novice Championship Qualifier took place at Aintree International Equestrian Centre during their Winter Classic Show, drawing a strong field of 51 starters all vying for a place in the final at the Royal International Horse Show.
Following an exciting first round, 23 combinations progressed to round two, with 13 advancing to the jump-off. Ultimately, six combinations produced triple-clear performances, setting up a tense battle for the two available qualifying tickets.
Jade Crawford set an early benchmark in the jump-off aboard Cookstown Mike Tyson, laying down a competitive clear round to apply pressure on those still to come. Returning mid-draw, James Smith rose to the challenge with a bold and forward ride on Mark Maher’s eight-year-old gelding Dan IV, keeping his turns tight while maintaining a smooth, flowing rhythm to stop the clock in 32.76 seconds, a time that would prove unbeatable.
Late in the class, Charlie Nelson chased hard with Malibu On The Rocks, producing another fast, faultless round, but despite her best efforts, she was unable to catch Smith’s leading time.
Commenting on securing a ticket to the final, James said: “He just missed out on qualifying by one place at Kelsall Hill, we finished third, so it was good to qualify him here. He’s relatively inexperienced but is a really fun and competitive horse, and he’s quite quick which helps; it worked out well on the day.
“I thought it was a nice course; although there were quite a few clears that made it to the jump-off. He won the Foxhunter the day before so was on good form and came into the jump-off really well. There was a turn back to the double which we kept very tight, and I think gave us the edge.
“I’ve only ridden him now for a few shows to help build him up, but hopefully I’ll be able to keep the ride for Hickstead,” added James.
SEIB Winter Novice Championship Qualifier
Aintree International Equestrian Centre
1st – James Smith & Dan IV – 0/0/0 32.76
2nd – Charlie Nelson & Malibu On The Rocks – 0/0/0 33.65
3rd – Jade Crawford & Cookstown Mike Tyson – 0/0/0 34.83
NB Results pending final grading
Image: Majestic Photography
