Poppy Deakin is the GS Equestrian Leading Pony Showjumper
Thursday 06 October 2022
.jpg "Poppy Deakin is the GS Equestrian Leading Pony Showjumper")
Poppy Deakin delivered a calm and assured performance to be crowned GS Equestrian Leading Pony Showjumper at the Horse of the Year Show.
Tynedale-based Poppy admitted she had achieved a showjumping career dream by winning a class that was first contested in 1949.
Just three combinations from 27 starters made the jump-off, with Poppy keeping her nerve on Armene du Costilg to take top spot.
A time of 36.63 seconds saw them home, with Ruby Barrs and Casper XXII taking second, and third place going to Sophie Evans on Oscar van de Beekerheide.
"I made a plan before the jump-off and stuck to it," Poppy said. "I tried not to go too fast, but fast enough to win it.
"I can't believe I have won - it has always been a dream. This is my last year on this pony, so it was great to go out with a good one.
"As I went into the jump-off, I had to forget about my nerves, and this really does mean the world to me. Since I was 12, I have been coming here, and I have always wanted to win a purple rug."
Image: 1st Class Images
