James Smith takes the NAEC Stoneleigh Stakes at Horse of the Year Show
Friday 08 October 2021
James Smith rose to the challenge amongst tough competition to win the NAEC Stoneleigh Stakes riding Leona Smith’s 12 year-old grey gelding Simply Splendid.
Irish rider Paul Kennedy held the early lead riding Cartown Danger Mouse with a time of 60.41 seconds. His time and accuracy proved hard to beat and it wasn’t until James Smith came into the arena as the sixth rider left to go that he got pushed off the top spot with a lightning quick round of 59.19 seconds.
About his win James said “It’s great, the last time I had a win here was in 2005 on 138’s [138cm ponies] so it’s great to finally win a senior class. He’s [Simply Splendid] naturally a fast horse and everything just came up well today. I’ve had him three years since he was a 9 year-old and he’s really come into his own in the last year; he’s great. It’s always a great atmosphere here, it’s a great show to come to in our own country, it’s great to have and I’m hoping we can have another win this week!”
Full results
Horse of the Year Show continues through until Sunday 10 October when it culminates with the Leading Showjumper of the Year being crowned. For more information, full results and ticketing information visit www.hoys.co.uk
