Quindiva delivers textbook clear to clinch Eventers' Challenge

Somerset-based event rider Alex Bragg and Quindiva produced a perfect clear round to win the Ashby Underwriting Eventers' Challenge at Hickstead.

Alex and the 14-year-old mare had been impressive when finishing third at this year’s Badminton Horse Trials, and today they gave a polished performance in Hickstead’s International Arena to finish clear on 122.70sec, when drawn 18th out of 23 starters.

The 2023 champion Fred Scala was drawn last to go, and he did his utmost to catch Alexander’s time with the speedy chestnut mare Corriebeg Supernova. Although Fred was significantly quicker, an early fence plus two late poles down meant 12sec added to his time, so he had to settle for runner-up spot.

Fred was effusive in his praise for Bragg’s round. “It was an absolute exhibition to watch Alex on an experienced horse, giving an absolute peach of a ride. He deserved to win today,” he said.

Alex is a qualified farrier, who now splits his time between eventing and showjumping. “I came here with all the hopes of doing well, she’s a wonderful horse and very suited to this class,” he said. “She’s fast and athletic, and very careful. I just love the adrenalin, it’s wonderful to be able to showcase eventing to a different crowd.”

The Roe Family’s Quindiva arrived at Hickstead after finishing second in an advanced class at Aston-le-Walls less than a week ago. After her stellar performance at Badminton, Alexander has another five-star in mind for her. “She has one more run at Hartpury before she goes to Burghley,” he explained.

In third place in the Ashby Underwriting Eventers' Challenge was Heidi Coy with Fourfields Wonder Woman, with Alice Dunsdon and Doon Side Jack finishing fourth.

Earlier, in the first international showjumping class of the show, Britain’s Joe Stockdale and Equine Rescue Services Kandleford took the honours in The Royal International Vase, with British riders filling the top four places.

Eighty-one competitors came forward for the class, with Joe setting a huge lead from 19th to go. Matt Sampson, renowned for his prowess against the clock, delivered the next fastest clear, to secure second place with the nine-year-old King Lepatino, while William Whitaker (Active Spirit) slotted into third, 2sec quicker than fourth-placed Nicole Lockhead Anderson (Chatondo).

“It’s definitely special to take an international win here. There isn’t really anywhere else like it in the world. It’s such an impressive ring and it’s always a great crowd and a great feeling,” said Joe, who is heading to Paris after the show as the travelling reserve for the British Olympic team.

In the two-phase ClipMyHorse.TV Trophy, Germany’s Jörne Sprehe finished quickest on the 10-year-old stallion Toys, with Britain’s Sameh El Dahan less than half a second in arrears with WKD Toronto.

“Toys was jumping really amazing,” said Jörne, who will be last to go on the German team in tomorrow’s Agria Nations Cup. “I know that he's always fast, but Toys has a really big stride,” she added.

For results click here.

Tickets for the Agria Royal International Horse Show (24-28 July) can be bought online or at the gate. Watch the livestream at Hickstead.TV