Liverpool, England – December 30, 2019 – British Nations Cup star Holly Smith (GBR) showcased the quality of new ride Denver to end a thrilling day’s action at the TheraPlate UK Liverpool International Horse Show CSI 4*.

Leicestershire-based Holly, a major candidate to make the Great Britain team for next year’s Tokyo Olympics, won the €25,000 Horseware Ireland Prize CSI 4* in scintillating fashion.

Ten combinations made it through to a race against the clock from 31 first round starters in the 1.50m class, but Holly and 11-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding (Memphis x Chico’s Boy) – a former eventer – proved a class apart.

They clocked 29.66 seconds to land a top prize of £7,200, and provide further evidence of the horse’s rich potential.

The next two combinations  also registered a double clear with Ireland’s Richard Howley (IRL) finishing second aboard Arlo de Blondel (Dollar Dela Pierre x Kassidi) in 30.94 seconds, just one hundredth of a second in front of the next duo, William Whitaker (GBR) and RMF Echo (Virus de Laubry x Feo).

Winner’s Circle – Holly Smith (GBR)

Hailing Denver’s display, Holly said: “He is an absolute freak of a horse – we absolutely love him to bits. He is so game and so athletic. I haven’t had him for long, but I don’t know what we would do without him. The sky’s the limit. I just hope that everything goes to plan and we both continue to enjoy our jumping, and apart from that, we won’t get too upset or excited. He really deserved this win and the recognition.”