Nicky Hanbury's Journey from Hunting to Show Jumping
In a remarkable display of skill and dedication, former Quorn field master Nicky Hanbury dominated the lineup at the London Longines Global Champions Tour (LGCT) with her home-bred horses, Two To Tango and Park Polo. This impressive feat marks a significant milestone in Nicky's transition from hunting to show jumping, a journey that began only three years ago.
The Transition: From Hunting Fields to Show Jumping Arenas
Nicky's unique approach to breeding and training her horses has certainly paid off. Tango, a horse born with a neck deformity who later developed arthritis, consistently showcases impressive jumping abilities with the help of extensive medical support, including shockwave therapy and physio sessions. Park Polo, on the other hand, is an agile horse capable of tight turns, securing victories and demonstrating versatility and skill.
The Role of Mentors
The role of mentors such as Malcolm Pyrah and Di Lampard has been pivotal in Nicky's successful transition into show jumping. Notably, Nicky also made her debut with the British veteran team in Italy, winning a team silver medal despite extreme heat and personal health issues. This success was further encouraged by Judy Pyrah, a testament to the supportive network within the equestrian community.
Further Insights from Nicky's Journey
Nicky's dedication to her horses, originating from a mare purchased for her husband (also a former Quorn field master), is noteworthy. Her resilience, passion, and excellence shine through in her achievements. Her recent LGCT performance underscores her successful shift from the hunting fields to competitive show jumping arenas.
Diving Deeper into Equestrian Sports
Nicky's journey provides an enlightening look into the dedication and hard work required to succeed in the competitive world of equestrian sports. There are several facets to explore further:
The History and Significance of LGCT
The Longines Global Champions Tour is a world-renowned equestrian event, drawing elite riders from across the globe. Understanding its history and significance offers a window into the prestigious nature of the competitions and the dedication required to compete at such levels.
The Role and Responsibilities of a Field Master
Being a field master in hunting is no ordinary feat. The role entails leading hunts, ensuring safety, and maintaining the discipline and control of the field. Nicky's transition from this demanding role to competitive show jumping speaks volumes about her versatility and skill.
Benefits of Breeding Home-Bred Hunters
Nicky's success with her home-bred horses highlights the benefits of a tailored breeding approach. Breeding horses for specific traits such as agility and jumping prowess can yield significant advantages in competitive sports.
Veterinary Care for Horses with Arthritis
Veterinary care is indispensable, particularly for horses like Tango with arthritis. Modern treatments such as shockwave therapy and physiotherapy are critical in ensuring these horses remain competitive. Tango's achievements are a testament to effective veterinary care and Nicky's dedication to her horses' well-being.
The Role of Mentorship in Equestrian Sports
The influence of top equestrian mentors like Di Lampard on upcoming talents is undeniable. Mentorship provides guidance, strategy, and emotional support, which are all critical for success in this sport. Nicky's journey underlines the importance of having a robust support system.
Conclusion
Nicky Hanbury's inspiring journey from hunting to show jumping serves as a powerful reminder of the dedication, passion, and resilience required to excel in the competitive world of equestrian sports. Her remarkable achievements with her home-bred horses, Two To Tango and Park Polo, underscore her commitment to the sport and her ability to overcome significant challenges. As we continue to explore the world of equestrian sports, Nicky’s journey offers valuable lessons and abundant inspiration.
For more information, you can read the original article on Horse & Hound.
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