The standard of work from
the top placegetters was very good and most of these horses moved well and
had a sound level of education. The standard of schooling has
improved greatly and judges now look to see that horses not only look good
but that they work well and have good paces and appealing expression.
A crowd favourite at the
last two Garryowen contests has been Becky Allen, who is one of the
country's best known and loved jumping riders. Daughter of renowned
rider Robbie Allen - the sport is in her blood. What has come
as a surprise to many is Becky's style and interest in the finer side of
horse sport - turnout classes. She made an impression on her own
lovely grey at the 2003 event and this year rode for the high profile show
team of Chris and Vicky Laurie's Lyndale Stables along with J.Jacobson and
Terry Van Heythuysen. As to be expected from this consortium,
their horse Crown is a stunning individual and very capable of taking the
'chocolates'!
Becky was a 'breath of
fresh air' and actually RODE the horse. As a consequence of her
positive direction, Crown (by racetrack 'glamour boy' Encosta de Largo,
who now stands for $120,000.00 at Coolmore Stud) put in a 'foot perfect'
workout and showed great expression of movement with clear definition
between the extended and collected work. It was a pleasure and very
capable of being the winning ride - the marks went 36 for riding and 34
for manners and paces. I felt that these marks were a little
conservative for the quality of performance. I am sure that in the
end the judges had to make a decision on personal preference. Well
done Becky.
Becky Allen moves away from the line-up positive riding
and
for my a little under valued by the judges.
Becky Allen and Crown - with the Vicky Laurie team behind
the
presentation, one can only imagine that her gear and costume were 'spot on'!
Becky Allen and Crown in perfect harmony for the 2004
Garryowen.
Becky missed a Showjumping event to take her Garryowen
ride
well done Becky and we look forward to seeing you in the show ring more.
Fiona
Course on C Bilson's lovely brown gelding Suave (by Jugah) - as
could be expected from this experienced 'turnout' competitor, the
presentation was perfect and Suave looked wonderful. Above a collected
canter and below a little more forward. I would have liked to see
him stretch into the contact - but this is my dressage background creeping
in ...
Suave and
Fiona Course take their place in the line and make their mark in the
history book of Australian equestrienne achievement. Congrats.
I have
included some pictures taken from the lineup prior to the announcements.
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