Carl Hester Crowned Grand Prix Freestyle to Music Champion

Carl Hester concluded a memorable dressage programme at the Equerry Bolesworth International Horse Show by being crowned grand prix freestyle to music champion.

Carl, winner of 10 major championship medals and a British dressage statesman during his illustrious career, thrilled a capacity crowd that basked in the Thursday afternoon sunshine with 10-year-old gelding Hawtins Delicato.

He gave me a great feeling,” Carl said. “I am beginning to understand him, and it is getting to know him. The feeling on him is incredible. He has come here and gone up a level again

Their performance in the Equitop Myoplast-sponsored class showcased the rich potential of Carl’s exciting ride, offering further evidence why they are likely to be Great Britain team members at the World Equestrian Games in America later this year.

A score of 76.225 per cent proved enough to edge out Richard Davison and Bubblingh – they recorded an impressive 75.875 per cent – with Charlotte Fry and Dark Legend filling third place.

Jacqueline Wing Ying Siu was last to ride in the seven-horse class, on the bay mare by Sandro Hit, Ferrera. Scoring mainly over 70 per cent throughout meant the pairing finished a respectable fourth place on 71.700. Great Britain’s Fiona Bigwood and Kjaerholm’s Abutsiaq finished in fifth place.

Bolesworth’s dressage programme was dominated by double Olympic champion Charlotte Dujardin, who won six classes on an exciting selection of her young equine talent, but Carl – Charlotte’s trainer and mentor – took centre-stage in the finale.