Charles Family Score A Second Title
Sunday 12 October 2014
The Charles family had more cause to celebrate at Horse of the Year Show on Sunday as 15-year-old Harry Charles was crowned Leading Pony Showjumper of the Year with Scoubidou IV.
A jump-off of spectacular proportions saw the top six riders separated by just 1.52 seconds, but it was Hampshire-based Harry who was quickest, clocking 33.35 seconds.
It was enough to nudge Jodie Hall-McAteer and the former Jessica Mendoza-ridden Tixylix into second, with Charlotte Ash (Aughnashammer) third, Faye Adams (Some Like It Hot) fourth, Alex Gill (Amman Valley Santino) fifth and Harry sixth on his other ride Aroldo.
Harry's victory came just 24 hours after his 12-year-old sister Sienna won the 128cms Championship - and 24 hours before he sits a mock GCSE physics exam!
And like on Saturday, father Peter, who jumped the round that clinched team show jumping gold for Great Britain at London 2012, watched proudly from the sidelines.
"It was great," said Harry, who lives in the village of Bentworth, near Alton.
"I didn't know the pony could go that fast, but dad encouraged me that the pony could do it, and we managed to go quickly enough.
"The lap of honour here is always so special. You just enjoy the moment, and it has been a really good few days."
Such is the quality of the Charles equine string - Harry's younger sister Scarlett finished eighth on Razorlite II and he finished sixth himself on another ride, Arolodo - that of seven ponies they had competing at HOYS this week, not one had a fence down.
"It couldn't have gone better," Peter said.
"We've had seven ponies here this week and we've not had a fence down, so everyone has done their job, and Harry will be the first to tell you that he has a great team behind him.
"That, today, was one of the most competitive jump-offs I have ever seen."
Audio link to Harry Charles - Winner of the Leading Pony Show Jumper of the Year
The dates for next year’s Horse of the Year Show are 7th – 11th October 2015. Keep an eye on our website and social media for ticket release dates.
