The mare was focused and listened to Dannie’s every command to produce a picture of harmony which clearly impressed the judges who awarded them 72.81% which proved to be the only occasion the 70% barrier was broken. Lucinda Elliott, stable jockey for the Mount St John Stud had three chances at the title but couldn’t quite match Dannie and Davina so a second title was theirs.
Dannie arrived at Hartpury with two horses, Davina and his own Southern Cross Braemar with both horses having qualified for four classes. All eight tests were ridden, two titles and six further top four placings the result for the 26 year old from Portsmouth.
A delighted Dannie said; “She was amazing today. She was so relaxed in her body and frame – just great to ride. We gave her an easy day yesterday and it was just the job.” Part owner Alice added; “She’s a Dimaggio, they always bounce back!”
We asked if he felt any added pressure today; “Yes!” he exclaimed. But Alice was quick to say “Not from us he didn’t! We told him to go in and enjoy it. We’d won a title already and anything else was a bonus.” Dannie said; “I did put pressure on myself as I just didn’t want to let her down!”
Alice and Sara Oppenheimer were clearly delighted with their youngster; “For a horse that took over a year to break and we didn’t dare take to a show until she was six, she’s been brilliant,” said Alice.
Dannie ended in saying; “Both horses have exceeded all my expectations and even though I’ve won twice, to come second to Charlotte [Dujardin] is quite cool too!”
