Gypsy Baron in a class of his own
alexandra.robinson@futurenet.com
@alexrob_journo_
Great Yorkshire, Great Yorkshire Showground, North Yorkshire
NATIVE specialist Tracey Milward fulfilled a lifetime ambition when her superb Highland stallion, Lochlands Gypsy Baron (Basil), galloped to a first Great Yorkshire (GYS) win – taking the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) ticket – then nailed the large breeds and overall ridden native titles.
The open mountain and moorlands (M&Ms) were easily the best-supported classes of the four days, with the vast majority of the 265 catalogued entries coming forward under Tom Best and David Blair, whose judging stint lasted 11 hours.
Faced with such numbers, they were strict on conformation and type, and set a demanding show which tested manners, obedience and the accuracy that only comes with correct schooling. This proved a formidable test and an “ask” too far for several combinations.
“Both David and I normally insist on a fixed show, as we feel strongly that every exhibit is judged as equally as we can possibly make it during the performance phase,” said Tom.
Although the show had officially closed by the time the final honour was decided, loyal GYS spectators remained in the stands to lend rousing support as the finale played out.
“From almost an embarrassment of lovely class winners, the Highland pony stood out throughout the day in terms of type and conformation,” added Tom. “It was a delight to see a pony travel easily across the ground without being pushed out of its
