Lucy Capper received an early birthday gift after securing her place at the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) during the STX UK Pony Foxhunter Second Round at the South View Summer Pony Premier Show last weekend.
Out of 36 starters, only nine riders advanced through the three-round competition, with four finishing without faults. Lucy, riding Clonbolloge Lad owned by Robert and Nicola Capper, completed the shortened course in the fastest time, holding off her rivals to claim victory.
Hollie Gerken, returning from the Youth Nations Cup in Zuidwolde, Netherlands, earned second place riding Kerry Grimster’s Velini’s Silver Star. She finished just 0.70 seconds behind Lucy. Michael McColm came third with Gordon Roper’s Luxs Little Lady, 1.30 seconds slower than the winner. Olivia Brightmore, on Rachel Brightmore’s Whatsapp Van Duyversputten, secured her second HOYS qualification of the weekend, finishing fourth, 1.42 seconds behind the leader.
Lucy described the weekend as very successful. She praised the jump-off course for allowing her to push Clonbolloge Lad, especially making up time after the oxer, which helped secure the win. Despite an unlucky rail in the Newcomers class the day before, they still earned a ticket to the final.
Looking ahead, Lucy expressed excitement about competing at HOYS. She said Clonbolloge Lad is only eight years old and this is his second year in larger classes. Although they have only been working together for a few months and have attended few shows, their partnership is growing strong.
