Text © World of Showjumping

USA's Lillie Keenan has added another exciting horse to her string; the 12-year-old Selle Francais gelding Argan de Beliard (Mylord Carthago x Ahorn) – previously competed by Portugal's Luis Sabino Goncalves all the way up to five-star Grand Prix level. 

"My trainer McLain Ward found him for me. Argan was jumping in America with Luis last year and I actually did not see him," Lillie tells World of Showjumping. "McLain saw him though, and told me about him, but since I was in Europe the process took a while. I only got him about two weeks ago and we went quite quick to show as I felt pretty confident with him. We were double clear in a 1.50m on the first week and then last week, I jumped him in the five-star and that was our first ever Grand Prix together."

"He is a lovely, talented horse that has just been a pleasure to get to know," Lillie continues. "Luis was so gracious through the process, straightforward and told me everything about the horse. I am really grateful to have him and for this year, obviously we are a brand new combination but as always, I aim for team competitions. I am also lucky to be a part of the Global Champions League team Stockholm Hearts this season, so that will be our additional ambition for the year."