Tigbourne shows 'pure power' to land Hunter title

It was the hunters who took centre stage on the penultimate day of showing classes at the Al Shira'aa Hickstead Derby Meeting, with the conclusion of the prestigious Agria Hunter Championship. 

This year it was Hannah Horton on Lucinda Freedman's 'very special' lightweight victor Tigbourne who got the nod from the judges, with Jonathan Fryer and the Irish Draught Dowdstown Purple taking reserve. 

Tigbourne, a 7/8ths Thoroughbred by Roviris, has previously been lightweight champion at Horse of the Year Show but this was his first title on Hickstead’s hallowed ground.

“You always think they’re special and you always think they can win it, but to actually do it on the day is something else,” said Hannah, who has produced the horse since he was a six-year-old. “He’s phenomenal to ride, I love riding him, he’s pure power but he’s like a hack in front, he’s so light.”

 Will Morton and Red Valentine won the Agria Small Show Hunter title, while the Agria Working Hunter went to Jasean Spraggett with KBF Paved with Stars. 

For full results click here.