This is a first for any Channel Islander.
The league result was based on results in competitions through the year, which for Karen, included numerous wins with the Jersey Dressage Club and Jersey Riding Club.
The award for the league was announced at this month’s Traditional of the Year Show (TOYS) held at the Onley Equestrian Centre near Rugby where the combination also won the show’s prelim class having been given wild card qualification.
Royal Candyman, known as Diddy, previously competed just in show classes. ‘When I bought him, he had no brakes so I thought dressage would do him good,’ said Karen. He started only nine months ago, but he is a quick learner and loves a challenge. I would not describe him as an easy ride, but he is truly a pony of a lifetime.’ Help with training has been given by Simon Laurens and Jodie Phillips.
Earlier this year, Karen won showing classes at the New Forest show and the Coloured Horse and Pony Society south west regional show and in November, she will he heading for Solihull to take part in the traditional cob of the year dressage championships.
