A Clydesdale Journey to Remember: A Young Rider's Historic HOYS Debut
The equestrian world is buzzing with excitement and admiration as 15-year-old Kaitlyn Marshall gears up to make history at the prestigious Horse of the Year Show (HOYS). She is set to compete in the ridden heavy horse of the year final, showcasing her exceptional bond with her family’s treasured Clydesdale, Burgess Outon Miracle.
The Rise of Burgess Outon Miracle
Burgess Outon Miracle, a six-year-old mare, has already made waves in the equestrian community. As the first foal bred by the Marshall family, Miracle's journey into the spotlight began when she bagged the Cawdor Cup at the Royal Highland Show as a four-year-old. She further established her prowess by being crowned the champion of her age category at the World Clydesdale Show in Aberdeenshire. Adding to this lineage of success, Miracle became a proud mother in 2023.
Kaitlyn and Miracle: A Bond Beyond the Arena
Kaitlyn's journey with Miracle is a heartwarming tale of growth and companionship. Initially, Miracle was trained "for a bit of fun" after Kaitlyn outgrew her pony, but this decision quickly blossomed into a formidable partnership. Their first show together at Kilmacolm marked the beginning of a spectacular season. Their triumphs continued, including a notable win at Fife Show, where they secured a ticket to HOYS.
Achievements and Preparations for HOYS
The Marshall family’s pride in this achievement is immense. Following their success at the Royal Highland Show, where they claimed the reserve champions title, Kaitlyn and Miracle have been honing their skills. Their recent victory as ridden Clydesdale champions amidst testing weather at the Blair final underscores their determination and resilience. Looking ahead to HOYS, the family maintains a realistic yet optimistic outlook. "All we can ask for is to get in and out of the ring safely, and to get a nice picture!" remarked Colleen Marshall, highlighting the family's humility and gratitude.
Miracle's Multifaceted Nature
Beyond competition, Miracle is cherished for her versatility. She transitions smoothly from the show ring to Pony Club activities and casual rides with Colleen's younger children. This flexible nature has warranted her the affectionate title of "our true horse of a lifetime" within the Marshall family. Despite operating without state-of-the-art facilities, the family maximizes their resources, training on grass riding areas in preparation for HOYS.
Significant Developments in the Equestrian World
As the spotlight shines on Kaitlyn and Miracle, the equestrian world has other exciting news as well. The much-anticipated TV adaptation of Jilly Cooper's novel "Rivals" is nearing its release on Disney+ and Hulu. Set in 1986, the series promises to weave a captivating narrative of politics and personal ambition, likely enchanting equestrian enthusiasts with its dramatic flair.
Moreover, the Zangersheide Quality Jumpers auction in Belgium recently became the talk of the town with the sale of Codex Diaz Z, a showjumping stallion, for a jaw-dropping €1 million. This event not only underscores the fierce competitiveness but also highlights the lucrative nature of the elite horse market.
Conclusion: A Historic Path Forward
Kaitlyn Marshall and Miracle's journey to HOYS is a testimony to dedication, passion, and the irreplaceable bond between a rider and her horse. As the equestrian community eagerly anticipates this landmark participation, it also celebrates the broader tapestry of events and narratives shaping the dynamic world of horse competition.
Sources: Horse & Hound | Streaming references: Disney+ UK, Hulu