Hobgoblins Stud Display Day

March 28th saw the Hobgoblins team at Hadlow College for the Hobgoblins Stud Equine Reproduction Centre display of stallions and progeny, sponsored by Dodson & Horrell. The display is now held annually at Hadlow to accommodate the growing audience and allow for seating and cover in the event of poor weather, though visitors are always welcome to make an appointment to view the stud itself. This year’s audience saw several new faces in addition to the familiar veterans, and progeny from varying types of mares. On the way into the arenas, spectators were also able to view the stallions in the warm-up ring and the lorry park to get an idea of temperament when not performing.

First to be presented was Hobgoblins resident Stanhopes Diddicoy (Ico x Gottward x Elan) (below), a 20-year old skewbald SHB(GB) stallion. Diddicoy has progeny on four continents, and is known for producing both show winners and successful competitors in all three disciplines, from local to international level. Stanhopes Diddicoy himself is the only coloured horse to have been placed in international dressage competition for Great Britain. He was in great form on the day, thrilled to have an audience, and made a point of showing his exuberance before buckling down to the business at hand. Ridden once again by Jodie Amos, he was very workmanlike, showing his excellent movement and efficient jump. His progeny were well-tempered in the ring, and good movers. A recently backed 4-year old, Stanhopes Mr. Blue Sky (see slideshow below), showed his superb manners during his first outing in an indoor school, behaving impeccably and performing quite sweetly for his rider.

Mr Dunit (Dun It At Dawn x Colonel Yo Yo), (below) owned by Mrs. Cindy Carley, came in next. Mr. Dunit is a 2-year old Quarter Horse colt, who will not be available at stud until 2011. He was very quiet, and also well developed, aimed at a future in halter and reining. He was awarded the AQHA UK high point yearling stallion championship for his 2009 halter showing season, and is certainly an exciting prospect for Quarter Horse breeders in the UK! It was refreshing to see such a different type of horse in the midst of a mostly sport and show horse and pony display.

Ninfield Eurika (Vean Cockalorum x Wingrove Minkino) (below), a 125cm riding pony stallion, is descended from champion ponies on both sides, being out of the excellent pony mare Ninfield Great Expectations who possesses a lengthy list of wins both under saddle and in-hand. He himself has also been twice 128cms champion at the South of England Spring Show, and Champion Show Pony In Hand at Ponies UK South. He looked to be a pro at showing, very biddable, but full of spark and active movement. Ninfield Minks Legend (Ninfield Millionair x Whalton Morning Glory) (see slideshow below) is another beautifully produced 142cm PBA pony stallion with several championships to his name. Once again, he appeared to be very quiet-natured, but an excellent showman, with active movement and correct conformation. Both stallions are owned by Jan Carmichael.

Next on the running list was Lostock Ladiesman (Lostock Blue x Xendigue) (below), a strikingly coloured piebald stallion owned by Wrens Stud. He displayed a very willing temperament, straight movement, and appeared keen over the fences. “Winston”, as he is called at home, is show jumping at Newcomers level, has won a loose jumping championship, and has progeny out competing in several disciplines.