We catch up with some familiar faces on the international showjumping circuit about what they consider to have been the best of the best of the year that soon comes to an end.
Edwina Tops-Alexander, winner of the Hermès Grand Prix of Paris and the Longines FEI World Cup of La Coruna:
"My personal highlight of the year would be winning the Grand Prix in Paris at the Saut Hermès. It was incredible as nobody knew I was pregnant, and I had a really good feeling that day that I might win despite the fact I think it was one of the toughest Grand Prix that I have ever ridden and I had only had my horse for four months.
The horse of the year I would have to say goes to Don VHP Z ridden by Harrie Smolders. He definitely has been the most consistent winner, and the rider of the year I think goes to Harrie. He has pretty much won everything!
The groom of the year for me definitely goes to Reesa Pihu. She has worked for me for over two years, and this past year I couldn’t have got to where I am now without her. Not only is she a professional groom, she also managed the stables whilst I was pregnant, rode my horses and took the best care of everyone. The support she has given me has been incredible and I’m extremely privileged to have her grooming for me.
The show of the year definitely goes to Valkenswaard. Not to be biased but it definitely has the best facilities for both the horses, riders, grooms, owners and spectators."
William Whitaker, Great Britain's representative at the European Championships 2017:
"My personal highlight of 2017 was competing at the Europeans in Gothenburg. It was my first senior championship and was a fantastic experience to ride there.
The horse of the year was close for me: Between H&M All in and Casall, but it has to be Casall. He has had a very successful career, and then for him and Rolf to win the Grand Prix in Hamburg on the day of his retirement was amazing.
The rider of the year has to be Kent Farrington. He has been world number one for the majority of the year with numerous five-star Grand Prix wins, including most recently Geneva in December.
The groom of the year is my groom Benoit Lecomte, who had a great input to our team's success this year.
For me, the show of the year is definitely London Olympia. I love that show. There is always a electric atmosphere, and it always feels extra special to do well there."
Scott Brash, winner of the LGCT Grand Prix of London:
"Personally for my year, the highlight was winning the Global Champions Tour Grand Prix in Chelsea in front of our home crowd.
The horse of the year I think was Alice DSP, she is a fantastic horse.
The rider of the year for me was Harrie Smolders, he has been solid all year and has always knocked out the results when it has counted.
The groom of the year would be my team of staff. Okay, I am biased but for me they are all the best and really want the best for the horses and all work very hard for our success."
Text © World of Showjumping // Pictures © Jenny Abrahamsson, Christophe Bricot and Stefano Grasso/LGCT
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