Raphaela Dawson doubles up at HOYS with second major title

Raphaela Dawson completed a memorable double at Horse of the Year Show with victory in the STX-UK Pony Foxhunter Championship.

The Berkshire rider, a European Pony Championship team gold medallist for Great Britain this summer, had already been crowned Leading Pony Showjumper of the Year aboard MHS Glow.

This time it was Woody Van Duyversputten’s turn in the spotlight as Raphaela guided him to victory with an immaculate first round followed by a smooth, fast jump-off.

A strong first round showcased the calibre of young riders rising through the ranks, with 11 combinations from 20 starters securing their place in the jump-off. Pony championships such as these provide valuable experience for riders aiming to progress onto the international circuit. William Whitaker, a previous Pony Foxhunter champion, and Jodie Hall McAteer, who enjoyed a successful pony career before moving into senior competition, illustrate where that pathway can lead.

Raphaela’s time of 28.82 seconds secured victory ahead of Olivia Brightmore riding Flore Des Islots, with Portia Taylor-Wilson finishing third on Olivia W.

The small chestnut gelding took the tight turns confidently, maintaining a smooth rhythm as Raphaela steered him around the course.

“We’ve had the pony for five years now, and I am the only one who has ever jumped him in the ring,” Raphaela said.

“When we first brought him home he used to go around our fields and jump the fences, so we always knew he could jump, but he was very difficult to break in, so he was actually kind of a year behind every other pony of his age.

“We kept breaking him in and turning him back out until he relaxed into being ridden, and last year and this year he has really come through.

“It has been an amazing journey. We have had to be very patient with him and we’ve had many more bad days than good days, but especially this year he has jumped so many clear rounds and he is getting better at going fast.”

Feature image: Raphaela Dawson doubles at HOYS with second major title riding in the STX-UK Pony Foxhunter Championship aboard MHS Glow. Image credit 1st Class Images