KEITH SIVILLS - The London Bell https://thelondonbell.com Mon, 23 Dec 2024 10:32:28 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.3.5 https://thelondonbell.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/cropped-Screenshot-2023-10-26-at-20.21.48-32x32.png KEITH SIVILLS - The London Bell https://thelondonbell.com 32 32 Gemma Stevens Triumphs Over John Whitaker at London International Horse Show https://thelondonbell.com/2024/12/23/gemma-stevens-triumphs-over-john-whitaker-at-london-international-horse-show/ Mon, 23 Dec 2024 10:31:11 +0000 https://thelondonbell.com/2024/12/23/gemma-stevens-triumphs-over-john-whitaker-at-london-international-horse-show/ Gemma Stevens beat John Whitaker at the London International Horse Show, winning the six-bar competition at 1.95m. In a separate event, jockeys entertained the crowd, […]

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Gemma Stevens beat John Whitaker at the London International Horse Show, winning the six-bar competition at 1.95m. In a separate event, jockeys entertained the crowd, raising funds for injured peers. Lady Buttons also triumphed in her show horse final, illustrating the versatility of former racehorses.

Gemma Stevens stunned the audience at the London International Horse Show by defeating show jumping icon John Whitaker in the six-bar challenge. Competing against 11 other entrants, the standout moment came when both Stevens and Whitaker reached the fifth round, tackling a height of 1.95m. While Stevens’ horse, Dime Bar, faltered at the final jump, Whitaker’s Sharid faced two refusals, allowing Stevens to claim a remarkable victory. Reflecting on her win, Gemma expressed admiration for John, stating she was inspired by his work, saying, “just don’t think about it, think about me and my horse, trying to do our best.”

In a light-hearted switch of disciplines, two teams of leading jockeys participated in the Markel Jockeys Jumping event to support the Injured Jockeys Fund. Harry Skelton’s team triumphed over Sir Anthony McCoy’s squad, with the retired grand prix horse Billy Angelo taking a starring role in the team’s performance. Notably, McCoy managed to stay on his horse this time, much to the delight of the audience.

Another highlight was the warm reception for former racehorse Lady Buttons, who won the Agria racehorse to show horse final with her former work rider Jennie Durrans. This victory brought smiles to the faces of her supporters as Jennie expressed her joy after riding Lady Buttons, whom she had taken up just earlier this year.

The London International Horse Show is renowned for showcasing top equestrian talent, featuring various jumping and dressage events. The six-bar competition particularly draws attention due to the escalating height requirements, challenging riders and horses alike. Additionally, events like the Markel Jockeys Jumping allow different disciplines to merge, raising funds for important causes such as the Injured Jockeys Fund. The transition of racehorses to show horses is a celebrated aspect of the equestrian community, highlighting versatility and continued success in different genres of riding.

The London International showcased thrilling performances, notably Gemma Stevens’ victory over legend John Whitaker, signalling her rising star in the equestrian world. The jockeys’ event entertained the crowd while supporting a noble cause, and Lady Buttons’ win celebrated the successful transition of former racehorses into show horses. The show remained a testament of equestrian prowess and community spirit in the sport.

Original Source: www.horseandhound.co.uk

The post Gemma Stevens Triumphs Over John Whitaker at London International Horse Show first appeared on The London Bell.

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