Philip Miller delivers the goods in the Winter Grand Prix at Bury Farm Equestrian Centre
Wednesday 29 January 2020
Hertfordshire based Philip Miller piloted Diana Cornish’s 12 year-old grey gelding Darona into the top spot in the Winter Grand Prix held at Bury Farm Equestrian Centre in Slapton, Buckinghamshire. The Grand Prix took place on Saturday night during the four day Winter Classic Show.
The 1.40m thirteen-fence-track set by Course Designer David Cole proved to be a tough challenge for the initial starting field. Just two combinations negotiated their way around the course keeping all fences intact. The first of the two jump-off contestants was Rebecca Ravilious with her own Marina Z, they produced an effortless round before falling victim to the final set of planks, the pair crossed the finish line in 58.11 seconds.
Philip followed with Darona, a horse whom he has produced from British Novice level since 2012. A clear round would secure the win but Rebecca’s hope of a Grand Prix win were still alive when Darona clipped the first part of the double. But the ultra-experienced Philip had kept his lines tight and finished 4.13 seconds ahead to clinch the win.
Bury Farm Equestrian Centre – Sunday 26th January 2020
Winter Grand Prix Results
1st Philip Miller & Darona – 0/4 – 53.98 seconds
2nd Rebecca Ravilious & Marina Z – 0/4 – 58.11 seconds
Image: Philip Miller & Darona in the Winter Grand at Bury Farm Equestrian Centre [Credit: SBM Photographic]
