The medal makers
WHAT do you get if you mix the genes of two of Britain’s most successful grand prix dressage horses in recent times? The result for breeder Claire Hester is an exciting rising star stallion on the cusp of grand prix and a nursery of full siblings and descendants with bright futures ahead of them.
U-Genius I is by Uthopia – Carl Hester’s prolific grand prix horse who won team gold in 2011 and 2012 – and out of the great Valegro’s full sister Weidyfleur II, meaning he boasts gold medal-winning genes on both sides of his family tree.
“It was just the obvious combination to do,” says Claire, who was formerly married to Carl’s stepfather. “Uthopia is the most successful UK stallion, and I’m surprised he isn’t used more for his paces and temperament. His extended trot at the Europeans in 2011 where he achieved 10s across the board is still the most magical moment. U-Genius is really interesting as the first one
