Denning wins Horse Care prize
The Spillers Horse Care prize for the best-cared-for-horse rewards the tireless work and dedication of some of the sport’s greatest unsung heroes — the grooms.
This year’s winner
was Francesca Denning, who looked after Austin O’Connor’s ride,
Colorado Blue (Salty).
Francesca has been
Austin’s competition groom since the Toyko Olympics.
“Salty’s such a
sweet horse,” said Francesca. “On cross-country day, when his
blood’s up, he can get quite sprightly, but otherwise he’s very
easy to look after an at event.”
Francesca earned a
“pass” on cross-country day to attend her best friend’s wedding
and Salty’s connections rallied round to attend to him.
“I got home at 2am
this morning, which is why I’m a bit bleary eyed,” she laughed.
“It’s been a fantastic week, though, the highlight being Salty’s
personal best dressage test.”
The runner-up was Tilly
Hughes, who looks after Bling, the mount of Laura Collett.
The Worshipful Company
of Farriers Best-Shod Award went to Stephen Hill, who shoes Alexander
Tordoff’s ride Cool Jack.