The 6 year old test is indeed a way to assess the talent of a horse of this age.  It is about Medium standard, with shoulder-in, half passes and flying changes.   The sequence and degree of difficulty of the   movements have been designed to identify the aptitude of this group and highlight the areas of weakness which may prevent or hinder further progress.  In Europe it is expected that a talented and well trained horse will be able to do a 'baby' Prix t. Georges test by the end of his 6th year.

I remember back to year one where the FEI 6YO test was not used and in year two there were no qualifiers and only after the riders had entered was a copy of the FEI 6 YO test sent out.  Judging by some of those performances the standard came as a shock as a number of horses looked as if they had only begun the flying changes a week or so before the event.  Now we see much more polished presentation of the work and horses better prepared for the demands which will be made on them by the judging panel.

I understand that the video was impossible to obtain and many of the horses were not up to the quality promised.  Most horses were passed in at the time of the Auction.

The winner of the 6 year old class - Mayfield Pzazz went on to be the eventual Champion of Champions.  This lovely young stallion was imported by Mary and Rob Hanna and purchased by Kerry Mack as a 2 year old.  Kerry is to be commended for the excellent basic work she has put into the horse as he looks a dream to ride.  He has three good paces and a very trainable temperament.

Ulf Möller gave him 9.5 for rideability which speaks volumes ...  Pzazz never seemed to say no and answered the challenge throughout the two day test.

Pzazz is by Jazz and from the mare Amulet.

This horse went on to be the
Champion of Champions.

Right - Second in the 6 YO class
Pasa Doble with Kate Boyes in the saddle
and a very proud owner - Vicky Roux.

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