Sunbeam gives King Charles III first Hickstead win

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His Majesty King Charles III had his first showing winner at Hickstead today, thanks to top show producer Katie Jerram-Hunnable and the six-year-old Sunbeam.

Last year, when Katie and Sunbeam took the Agria Supreme Coloured Horse Ridden Championship at the Al Shira’aa Hickstead Derby Meeting, it marked Her Majesty The Queen’s first victory following the Jubilee. Today, Sunbeam once again took the title – this time, earning His Majesty the King his first-ever Hickstead win.

Sunbeam’s mother, Tiger Lily IX, was evented by the Queen’s granddaughter Zara Tindall, and he was bred and born at the Hampton Court Stud Farm. “When he came last year and won for The Queen, he did so as a very young horse, and now he’s come down the centre line for The King, which has just been amazing,” said Katie. “Being a homebred, he’s very special – and he’s also still very young, but he just produces everything a show horse should produce. He's got manners, he's got movement, he's got super conformation, and he's special.”

Katie’s win added to a bumper week for King Charles, who also had a winner at Royal Ascot on Desert Hero. For the rider, it’s particularly heartfelt to continue her long association with the Royal Family. “The King will be absolutely delighted,” smiled Katie. “It’s emotional, because obviously Sunbeam was The Queen's, so it’s very special.”