Dan Welcomes New Sponsors for 2012

Dan is delighted to announce two more sponsors for 2012.

Balanced Horse Feeds are Equine Nutrition experts who have an extensive range of quality horse feeds for all equestrian disciplines. The company has a deep understanding that Horse feeds involve the practical and apparently obvious recognition that different categories of horses and ponies require different approaches to their feeding regimes.

More information can be found on their website at www.balancedhorsefeeds.co.uk

Dan is also delighted to be associated with TORQ who are a quality Fitness Consultancy who have developed a range of performance nutrition products, including their prominent range of Energy Bars and Drinks, through a need to offer the highest standard of support to the athletes they work with. TORQ critically analyse every product on the market and take on board their best features – and then improve upon them – every little detail - without compromise.

Dan Wins World Class Program at Olympia

Dan and Varo M gave themselves the best Christmas present by winning the Team Murka and The World Class Programme Under 23 British Championships 2011 at Olympia. Over a very demanding, big and technical track, Dan was one of only two clear rounds and showed why he is the top ranked young rider in the country with a superb performance to take top prize. With just two left to go in the jump off, William Whitaker put the pressure on by jumping the first double clear onboard Bowhouse Rubis in a time of 45.08sec. However, Dan was up to the task and gave a clinic in fast accurate jumping finishing in 43.35sec for a very impressive victory. This is a great ending to another excellent season and it is full steam ahead into 2012 and Olympic year.

Dan and zavira in excellent form at hoys

Dan and Zavira finished a very good fifth in the 7yr Championship at HOYS, showing what an excellent prospect she is for the future. Giving an exhibition of jumping in the first round, Zavira just touched a pole on a very difficult turn back fence to finish on four faults in the jump off. This mare really does have a bright future and next year could be very special.

Dan was also back to defend his Young Riders title, and although Dan and Varo M looked in great form he just touched and upright going into the combination to finish on four faults. "It was a shame about both horses" said Dan "Both Zavira and Varo M jumped really well in the big arena but both just touched a pole. These things happen in showjumping and I'm sure both will be back in this arena in the future" added Dan.

Dan HAS good show at hoys qualifier

Do competed the very talented Varo M in the Grand PRIX at the Rowallan HOYS qualifier show. Despite this being his first show indoor after the summer season, Varmo M showed all his class to finish an excellent 4th place starting off his winter campaign in good fashion.

Dan also brought two new horses to the show with him. Walanda a very nice 8yr old grey mare, who duly won the 1.30m Open class in fine style and won that looks to be very competitive and the very exciting Master Cruise owned by Dave Hill and his family and previously ridden at top International level by Di Lampard. With Dan still getting a feel for the horse, he jumped him to 4th place in the 1.30m Open on Day one and followed that with another impressive 3rd in the 1.30m Open on the second day. "I'm thrilled to have this opportunity to ride Master Cruise" said Dan "We know how talented the horse is and I'm really looking forward to riding the horse over the winter. He gave me a great feel and he should be very competitive in the good classes this winter".

Dan and Zavira Qualify for HOYS 2011 7/8yrs Championship

Dan booked a ticket for this years 2011 HOYS 7/8yr old Championship with an impressive win in the qualifier at Arena UK. A very nice recruit to Dan's team, Zavira has been in excellent form recently jumping in the 7yr old age classes at several International show, and put all that experience to good use producing two top class rounds to secure the victory. "She's a very nice horse" said Dan "We've been careful to bring here along nice and quietly and she's now developing into a very nice mare. She's a big jumper and was super today and managed the step up very well. We'll keep her ticking over until HOYS and hopefully she'll have a very good chance" added Dan

Great Britain’s Tretorn Young Rider’s Bring Home Team Bronze

Monday 11 July 2011

The weekend saw the second round of the Young Rider European Championship Team competition take place in Comporta, Portugal. Securing Team Bronze with less than two fences between themselves and a Team Gold it was Jason Smith, Lucy Guild, George Whitaker and Dan Neilson who were all flying the flag high for Great Britain

The course was a tough one and it saw many of the competitors incurring faults with only six clear rounds achieved across the eighty that were jumped.

It was twenty year old Jason Smith from Kilmarnock who was Great Britain’s pathfinder riding Anne Smith’s fourteen year old bay gelding Rival 14 a horse which had partnered him in a previous Junior European Championship.

Second to jump for Great Britain was nineteen year old Lucy Guild from Fraserburgh with her own eleven year old dark bay gelding Titi D’Oase. This combination showed what a great partnership they have built over the past few years and jumped consistently in both rounds.

Following them was nineteen year old George Whitaker from Huddersfield who was making his debut at Young Rider level this year with Sally McSharry’s eleven year old chestnut mare Tubana.

Last to go was twenty one year old Dan Neilson from Brentwood with Celia Mason’s nine year old chestnut gelding Chauvinist whom has been with Dan for a number of years now with considerable success

It was Belgium however who came out on top to take the Gold Medal finishing on a score of 23penalties followed by Switzerland on 25penalties with Great Britain finishing on 30penalties securing the Team Bronze

Young Rider European Championship & Team Competition

• Gold: Belguim - 23 faults
• Silver: Switzerland - 25 faults
• Bronze: Great Britian - 30 faults

Dan selected for gb young rider team

Dan will be competing in the Tretorn Young rider European Championships in Comporta, Portugal riding Celia Mason's 9yr old chestnut Chauvanist. Dan and Chauvanist have been in great form this year and will be tested to the full during these championships. Dan joins:

• 21 year old Joe Clayton from Huddersfield and his own 12 year old bay gelding Saveur.
• 19 year old Lucy Guild from Fraserburgh and her own 11 year old dark bay gelding Titi D’Oase.
• 20 year old Jason Smith from Kilmarnock and Anne Smith’s 14 year old bay gelding Rival 14.
• 19 year old George Whitaker from Huddersfield and Sally McSharry’s 11 year old chestnut mare Tubana.

"I'm delighted to be selected again" said Dan "It's always an honour to be selected to compete for your country and I do really enjoy riding in the team events. There's always a very good spirit about the young riders teams and I think we have a very strong team which will hopefully be able to compete right through to the final day" added Dan.

TRM SUPPORT FOR TWO LEADING YOUNG SHOW JUMPERS

TRM, a Business Partner of British Show Jumping, has announced it is to extend its high profile UK sponsorship portfolio with support for two leading young show jumpers Daniel Neilson and Pippa Allen.

“For me as a showjumper, TRM really completes the full professional package”, explained Daniel, “as it’s unbelievably important to have individual nutritional advice and support for each horse, because it will give me that edge in the ring.”

Pippa is equally enthusiastic, saying, “This is a great opportunity, as I can make use of all the experience of the TRM team to help with the science behind the nutritional management of the horses, which is such a crucial part of being successful. I am looking forward to learning a lot along the way.”

Tom Barrett, Vice President Europe, North America, Tom Barrett said, “Both of these young riders have impressive records in the sport and we are delighted to develop our association with British Show Jumping in this way, as they will be excellent ambassadors for the TRM brand.”

more international success for dan at San Giovanni

Dan added further international success during the second week of the San Giovanni show in Italy with victory in the Small Grand Prix on Varo M and a top class second in the San Giovanni Grand Prix on the fast improving Chauvanist.

The first day of the final week of this two week International show saw Dan and Zivira jump another impressive double clear in the 7yr old age class. Varo M followed up with good schooling double clear in the 1.40m CSI class that put him spot on for the Small Grand Prix. Again it was left to Chauvanist to jump the 1.50m 25k World Ranking Class and again he jumped very well just touching a pole to finish on four faults.

Varo M was the undoubted star of day two with a fantastic win in the Small Grand Prix. After a very classy first round, Dan and Varo M gave an exhibition in the jump off and ran out a very convincing winner. Chauvanist again jumped well in the 1.50m 25k World ranking class, jumping impressively clear in the first round, and even though things did not quite go as planned in the jump off, he nevertheless showed he remained in excellent form.

The final day of the two week show was another excellent day for Dan. After Zavira jumped a super double clear in the final of the 7yr old Class to finish a very good 8th, Dan left his very best until last with a top class second in the San Giovanni Grand Prix. Over a very big and technical track, Chauvanist jumped out of his skin and was one of only two clears in the first round. Last to go in the jump off Dan just failed to get past the winner and settled for an excellent second place. Chauvanist is starting to look a real Grand Prix horse and this was by far is best performance.

"Absolutely thrilled" said Dan "Chauvanist was superb today and I thought we might just win. He's improved significantly this year and just takes everything in his stride. He has an ideal temperament to jump the big tracks as he's doesn't let anything bother him and he's very brave. The last three weeks have been good, all the horse have been in good form. Attack appears to be very close, Zavira has done everything we've asked of him and Varo M is definitely on the upgrade. Let hope they all maintain this level of form, especially in Copenhagen" added Dan

Commenting on his selection for the GB Senior Nations Cup Team in Copenhagen Dan Said "It's always an honour to compete for your country. It makes all the hard work worthwhile but now it's up to me to continue to work hard and keep a place in the team. I'm really looking forward to the challenge"

DAN remains in excellent with more international placing's

Dan has just returned from two CSI shows at Maubeuge and San Giovanni with yet more good performances. The shows were particularly useful as it gave Dan a chance to get some of the squad up and running for the big summer events as well as giving some of the more inexperienced horses good international track experience.

Dan had four horses with him at the CSI Show at Maubeuge (29th April - 1st May) and San Giovanni (6th-8th May) Varo M, Chauvanist, Attack and Zavira.

At Maubeuge most of the first day was spent getting the horses jumping and ready for the rest of the show. The promising 7yr old Zavira was the first in the big arena and looked at home with a nice double clear to get Dan's show going. Varo M had a nice schooling round with an impressive clear in the 1.40m Open class and Attack, who was having his first show back sine his break, jumped a very pleasing double clear in the 1.35m CSI class. The big class of day one , the 1.50m 25k World Ranking event, was a left to Chauvanist and again this impressive performer but in a very solid effort. After a classy 1st round, Dan and Chauvanist were very unlucky to have the last fence down in the jump off, which would have meant a top three finish, but Chauvanist proved his well being and looked ready for another good show.

The second day got off to another good start with the very consistent Zavira jumping a very nice double clear. Varo M had an unlucky day with one down in the 1.45m CSI Open class and Attack looked very confident during his impressive clear in the 1.40m CSI class. Lead horse for the show Chauvanist again took on the big 1.50m 25K World Ranking class and produced another classy effort jumping an excellent clear to finish in 5th place. Chauvanist really does look comfortable at this level which augers well for the rest of the season.

The last day of show highlighted a big step up in class for Varo M who had a crack at the 1.50 40K Grand Prix. Despite a couple of novicy mistakes, Varo M jumped very well and he will greatly benefit from this experience, this nice horse is still on the upgrade and jumping big and technical tracks such as this should really enhance his ability. Chauvanist jumped an nice easy clear in the 1.40m CSI class and Attack also jumped a very nice double clear in the 1.40m CSI class and is nearly ready to take on the bigger stuff in the next couple of weeks. Zavira completed the show with another bold performance in the 7yr old final. After jumping an eye catching clear in the first round, he just touched a pole in the jump off to finish in the pack. That was his first mistake of the show and this nice 7yr old looks to have a very bright future.

Dan got off to a solid start on the first day of the San Giovanni show. Varo M had a good schooling round in his first class with a nice clear in the 1.40m CSI class. Again the impressive 7yr old Zavira took to the big arena very well with nice clear in the 7yr old age class. Attack looked very powerful during his double clear in the 1.35m contest and appears to be getting better and better. Chauvanist took on the 1.50m 25K World Ranking class and looked in excellent form just having the last fence down to finish in the pack. He really jumped well and looks completely at home over the bigger tracks.

Dan's luck didn't get much better on day two with Varo M having four faults in the Small Grand Prix and the same happened to Chauvanist in the 1.50m 25K World Ranking event who just touched a wavy plank for four faults after looking very impressive on the track. Zavira improved things for Dan with an excellent double clear in the 7yr old class and Attack was again in good form with a nice clear in the 1.40m class which was a schooling round for the Grand Prix.

The final day of the show started in great fashion. The impressive Zavira started the day with another excellent double clear in the 7yr Old age class. This fast improving 7yr old hasn't touched a fence all week and is very much one to watch this year. Chauvanist had an easy day with a nice clear in the 1.40m class as did Varo M who was also clear in the 1.40m class. Attack was left to take on the 1.50 40K Grand Prix, and after jumping a cracking first round he just touched a pole in the jump off to finish in 12th place. Dan and Attack were very impressive and Attack really does look to have come back in great order, and now Dan has three quality horses to take with him to the International shows and be competitive wherever he goes.

DAN gets more international placing's

Dan has just returned from another good International CSI show at Saut Hermès with a couple of excellent placings. After a good warm up class, finishing 7th, on day one, Dan and Chauvanist were in very good form on day two finishing third in the CSI***** 1.45m U25 Championship, just behind Tobias Meyer - Aluta and Lorenzo de Luca - Skik. Dand and Chauvanist then followed that up with an excellent 4th after jumping double clear in the Internation Riders U25 class. Dan was teamed up with fellow Brit Matthew Sampson - Utopia, and were unlucky not to finish higher.

DAN FORTH IN Lowen Classics CSI 4*GRAND PRIX

Dan produced yet another top class performance in the CSI 4Star Lowen Classics Grand Prix finishing a gallant 4th on Milena 8 just behind the likes of Marco Kutscher, Marcus Ehning and Rolf-Goran Bengtsson. To be that competitive in such world class company is a testament to how Dan has improved the last 18 months and it sets a great platform for the coming season. After a very impressive clear round over this very tough International track, Dan was even better in the jump off, showing great maturity go nurse Milena 8 home in a competitive time of 38.92secs to capture forth place. "She was great today" said Dan "It was such a big track I was just trying to make sure I got her to the fences on the right stride and keep her very relaxed. She answered every time I needed a bit more effort and I'm thrilled we jumped double clear. When she relaxes she can jump the biggest tracks, a great effort" added Dan

Dan also jumped Chauvinist at the show and even though it was yet another step up for this talented horse, he jumped very well all week with a clear round in the 1.45m on day one and in his subsequent classes he only had one pole down over some very big and technical tracks. "We just wanted to see how he would handle this class of track, and as he has done every time we've stepped him up in class he appears to take it all in his stride" said Dan

MORE INternational success for dan

Dan took four horses Chauvinist, Milena 8, Zavira and Vilka B to the CSI 3star show at Strazeele this last weekend and enjoyed another very successful show.

Dan used the show to give two of his younger horses, Zavira and Vilka B, international experience and get them ready for the 2011 season. Zavira a 7yr old mare, who Jason has had since a 3yr old, is very inexperienced and hasn't been to many shows, started in very impressive fashion with a nice double clear in the 1.30m open class. She followed that with another super display of jumping going double clear on day two in the 1.30m class. This was a really nice start for this promising mare and an exciting season looks on the cards.

Vilka B, another really smart mare, also came for the experience and was equally as impressive. After a very nice schooling clear round on day one in the 1.25m class, Vilka B produced a really small double clear on day two to finish an excellent 4th place. With the mare is such good form Dan jumped her in the Small Grand PRIX on the final day and she produced a superb display jumping double clear finishing in an impressive 3rd place. "Both the inexperienced horses jumped really well. We didn't expect much just wanted to give them some experience, but they've both schooled well and that really showed during the show. Hopefully both will improve throughout 2011 and become really nice prospects" said. Dan.

Dan's older horses both showed they are in great form for the coming season we some super displays of jumping. Milena 8 had a nice schooling round on day one jumping really well and just lowering one pole in the 1.45m class. Day two saw another classy effort from this big jumping mare jumping double clear in the big 1.45m class to finish an excellent 5th place. "She was great tonight" said Dan "She feels in really good form and we know we can jump her in any class and she'll be competitive" added Dan.

As good as Milena 8 was, Chauvinist was the real star of the show. Firing straight out of the blocks on day one Dan and Chauvinist we hugely impressive winning the big class of day one the 1.45m in emphatic style. Always traveling smoothly, Chauvinist responded to all the questions Dan asked him to win in impressive fashion. Day two saw Dan and Chauvinist jump another double clear in his Grand Prix warm up class and even though everything was going very well in the first round of the 1.50m Grand Prix on the final day of the show, a very lucky pole in the combination cost Dan and Chauvinist their chance.

This very talented gelding has been produced by Dan and the team over the last few years and does nothing but improve every year. Having been stepped up to the bigger classes last year he made the transition effortlessly and has now become really consistent jumping the big International classes. Chauvinist has become not only competitive at this level but he has already show he has the ability to win classes at international level.

"Chauvinist was very impressive at this show" said Dan "He had a great feel throughout the show and was very unlucky in the Grand Prix. He has already shown he can handle the very big classes and just keep on improving he could have a very exciting year" added Dan

Dan selected for World class development squad

Riders selected for the 2011-2013 World Class Development Programme have been announced today by the British Equestrian Federation.

Funded by UK Sport, the Development Programme works with talented riders to maximise their potential and deliver success.

The selected riders cover the three Olympic sports of Dressage, Eventing and Showjumping and the Paralympic sport of Para-equestrian Dressage.

For a full list of all the riders selected onto the Porgramme please visit the Development Start or Potential pages.

“The selection process was slightly changed this time and carried on over a longer period of time allowing applicants to be viewed ‘in competition’. The standard of rider applying was higher than ever and the selectors had a difficult job; but, that’s excellent news for us as a nation as it reflects the wealth of talent that we are fortunate to have,” commented World Class Performance Director, Will Connell.

The World Class Development Programme underpins World Class Performance and, together with the Equine Pathway, they comprise the Equestrian World Class Programme. It incorporates the three Olympic sports of Dressage, Eventing, Showjumping and the Paralympic sport of Para-equestrian Dressage.

The Programme has been funded by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, through Exchequer and National Lottery funds, via UK Sport since 1998.

Content from Equestrian Team GBR website

Dan ends year in fine form at La Coruna CSI5*

Dan ended an amazing 2010 with another fine performance at the CSI ***** event at La Coruna.

Dan took his top big jumpers Flaming Star and Milena 8, and it was Flaming Star who got things off to a really nice start with a super double clear in the 1.45m class to finish a fine 10th place. This James Kernan owned stallion has been in excellent form recently and this very talented stallion is starting to look comfortable in the these big classes. Milena 8 took on the €80,000 World ranking class on day one and jumped really well just lowering a tall vertical for 4 faults.

On day two of this high class show Flaming Star showed why he is a real one to watch in the future. In the €130,000 euro Telefonica Grand Prix, he jumped an immaculate clear in the 1st round over a massive 1.60m track. In the jump off Dan and Flaming Star were so unlucky, when right on the time in a super fast jump off, they had the penultimate vertical down for a very respectable 7th place.

On the final day again Flaming Star really showed his outstanding potential in top international company. Competing in the City of La Coruna Grand Prix, an €80,000 euro World Ranking Class he was again foot perfect under a wonderfully judged ride by Dan. In the jump off he was so unlucky when turning back to a massive 1.60m vertical just rolling the top rail in a quick time for an excellent 7th place.

Overall a wonderful show for Dan and an end to a fantastic 2010 season where he has finished as the top Young Rider in the country and has leaped up the senior national and international rankings. There is so much to look forward to in 2011

Dan ends year in fine form at La Coruna CSI5*

Dan ended an amazing 2010 with another fine performance at the CSI ***** event at La Coruna.

Dan took his top big jumpers Flaming Star and Milena 8, and it was Flaming Star who got things off to a really nice start with a super double clear in the 1.45m class to finish a fine 10th place. This James Kernan owned stallion has been in excellent form recently and this very talented stallion is starting to look comfortable in the these big classes. Milena 8 took on the €80,000 World ranking class on day one and jumped really well just lowering a tall vertical for 4 faults.

On day two of this high class show Flaming Star showed why he is a real one to watch in the future. In the €130,000 euro Telefonica Grand Prix, he jumped an immaculate clear in the 1st round over a massive 1.60m track. In the jump off Dan and Flaming Star were so unlucky, when right on the time in a super fast jump off, they had the penultimate vertical down for a very respectable 7th place.

On the final day again Flaming Star really showed his outstanding potential in top international company. Competing in the City of La Coruna Grand Prix, an €80,000 euro World Ranking Class he was again foot perfect under a wonderfully judged ride by Dan. In the jump off he was so unlucky when turning back to a massive 1.60m vertical just rolling the top rail in a quick time for an excellent 7th place.

Overall a wonderful show for Dan and an end to a fantastic 2010 season where he has finished as the top Young Rider in the country and has leaped up the senior national and international rankings. There is so much to look forward to in 2011

Dan wins in porto

Last week saw Dan travel to Portugal with a string of horses for the CSI3* International Show.

On Friday, Dan topped the leader board in the 1.40m class while riding James Kernan’s eleven year old bay gelding Flaming Star. The pair showed their class by jumping two foot perfect rounds in a jump off time of 35.18 seconds, a fraction faster than the Netherlands Leopold Van Asten who also jumped a double clear in a jump off time of 35.60 seconds.

Dan then went on to compete in the BPI Masters which was a €10,000 1.45m class. Riding Peter Ward’s 13 year old bay mare Milena 8 Dan showed his class once again by jumping four clear rounds in a jump off time of 30.42 seconds. Unfortunately this was just off Roger Yves Bost’s time for France as he completed the jump off in a 28.17 seconds putting Dan in second place.

Dan now heads for the CSI***** show at La Coruna this week and is hopeful of carrying on his excellent form.

Dan takes good form to Germany and Belgium

Dan has just returned from a two week trip where he competed Flaming Star and Milena 8 at Oldenburg Germany CSI 3 star 12th – 14th November and Milena 8, Flaming Star and Chauvinist at the Wieze Belgium CSI 3 star 18th – 21st November.

Dan and Milena 8 were in outstanding form in the 1.50M 20000 Euro World Ranking Class jumping a super double clear to finish 2nd. Dan had set the pace throughout the jump off and he was just touched off by the last rider to go.

Flaming Star produced another excellent performance in the 1.40M 2phase jumping double clear to finish 4th. Flaming Star continues to show he is comfortable at this level and Dan is looking forward to a successful winter with this talented horse.

On the first day of the Wieze show Dan had two very good performances from Chauvinist and Flaming Star. Chauvinist took on his warm up class, the 1.35m 2phase, with his usual enthusiasm, jumping a smart double clear to finish in 5th place. Flaming Star wasted little time in making an impact at the show and was in excellent form in the 1.45m jump off class jumping an impressive double clear to finish in 2nd place.

The the second day of the show the ultra consistent Chauvinist again was in top form jumping a very smooth double clear in the 1.40m two phase contest to finish in a very good 5th place. Milena 8 got her show under way with an impressive clear in the 1.40m A4 class to just miss out on top hon ours finishing 2nd, this big jumping mare is in fine form at the moment and is close to winning a good class.

On the final day of the show Dan didn't quite have the luck run his way. Chauvinist jumped in the 1.45 20000 Euro World Ranking Class and was putting in a very impressive round until he just toed out the planks coming out of a double. However, this was still an encouraging performance from a horse that is very much on the upgrade. Flaming Star took on the 30000 Euro Grand Prix and like Chauvanist was very unlucky to have just one down. He looked very comfortable at this height and is not far away from winning a nice class.

"They all jumped well at both shows" said Dan "Chauvanist is becoming very consistent on the bigger tracks and is really tuning out to be a solid performer. Milena 8 and Flaming Star are very close, both jumped super and with a little bit of luck both could have won a nice class. The're all in good form and it's a good sign for the winter shows coming up"

Dan in excellent form at Aintree

Dan took three horses, Flaming Star, Milena 8 and High Tone Z, to the big national show at Aintree and was again in impressive form.

The irrepressible High Tone Z got things off on running on day one with a super clear rounds in the 1.30m Open contest finishing a very good 2nd place. High Tone Z has had a short break and has come back nice and fresh. She has had an incredible year already and she looks as if she is ready to resume winning ways very shortly. Dan's new charge Flaming Star came flying out of the gates on day one with a very impressive double clear to win the 1.40m open class. Dan and Flaming Star already appear to have struck up a really good understanding and this impressive jumper is going from strength to strength in the bigger classes. No to be outdone Milena 8 also jumped a really nice double clear to finish 2nd in the same class.

Day two saw Flaming Star again is superb form and he again jumped an eye catching double clear in the 1.40m open just failing to catch Paul Barker on Temple Ryefield and settling for 2nd place.

Dan was in great form on the final day of the show which saw High Tone Z get back to her winning ways with a superb performance in the 1.30m Open contest. High Tone Z has been a machine in these type of classes all year and when Dan and this lovely grey mare are in this form they are extremely hard to beat.

In the Jumping In Yorkshire Grand PRIX Dan jumped Flaming Star, and after an excellent clear round they just tipped of a very big vertical in the jump off and had to settle for 7th place. "He's jumped fantastic all week" said Dan about Flaming Star. "We're starting to get a really good understanding and I think he could be really good. High Tone Z was a bit fresh, but she's had a break and we were starting her back easy, but still didn't stop her from winning a class!!, she just doesn't know any other way to jump other than to give her very best every time she gets in the ring"

Dan enjoys further success abroad

After an excellent show at HOYS, Dan kept the team busy (Chauvanist, Milena 8 and Flaming Star) at two European CSI** shows at St Lo and Caen.

On the first day at St Lo Chauvanist showed is well being with super double clear in his 1.35m warm up class to finish a good tenth. On the last day of the show Chauvanist yet again showed what an exciting prospect he is jumping clear and four in the big 1.45m class to finish an excellent 4th place. Milena 8 also joined in the fun with a classy clear in the 1.40m finishing just behind the winner in second place. "Chauvanist is starting to get really comfortable in the bigger classes now, we thought it might take more time to get him ready for these type of events but nothing fazes him now and he's in great form" said Dan

The Caen show started as the St Lo one had finished with Chauvanist jumping double clear in his 1.35m warm up class to finish a nice 4th. Flaming Star, Dan's latest ride, got his show up and running on day two and despite Dan still finding out about his new ride, they already appear to have struck up a nice partnership. In his first class of the day, the 1,35m two phase contest, Flaming Star left his rivals in his wake with a quality round of showjumping to take top prize. Not to give his stablemate two much glory, Chauvanist was superb in the 1.45m A4 single round class, jumping clear to finish a very close 2nd. "Flaming Star was really good today" said Dan "I'm still finding our about him, but he's got lots of class, a big jump and he's brave, he should have a very bright future" added Dan "Chauvanist was top class, i thought i'd done enough to win but it was still an excellent effort"

On the final day of the show Jason , Dan and the team decided to put Chauvanist in his first CSI** Grand Prix and he performed with great credit. Although he got a poor draw, Dan and Chauvanist jumped for four faults and again showed how much improvement he has made this year. "Very pleased with him" said Dan "We just got our of our usual tempo as the time was very tight, but he was unlucky to have the vertical down and he did jump really well. He's been very busy the last few weeks and has handled everything brilliantly. Without being one of the flashy jumpers, he just keeps improving and jumps everything in front of him. 2011 could be a great year for Chauvanist" added Dan

FULL 2010 HOYS REPORT HERE...

Dan warms up for HOYS

Dan took part in the Solihull Pre HOYS show to get some of the horses ready for HOYS next week and all looked in fine form. Chauvinist started the ball rolling with an excellent win in the Accumulator, jumping the 1.55m Joker with ease. Chauvinist will be busy next week at HOYS as he takes part in both the Newcomers and the 7&8 Year old Championship.

Dan introduced a new ride at the show Flaming Star and a star he was. After winning the 1.40m class on the Friday, Flaming Star produced two flawless rounds to win the Grand Prix in great style, and just to show the well being of the team, Milena 8 also used the Grand Prix as as a good warm up for HOYS finishing just behind in second.

Dan and attack 3rd in Pinerolo Grand prix

Dan and the team were competing in the CSI*** Pinerolo Italy this last weekend (10th - 12th Sept) and produced a top class performance to finish third in the €25,000 Grand PRIX on Attack. Over a very testing track - only four double clears - Dan and Attack produced two flawless rounds of showjumping to finish just behind Ugano - Rikkert Kirsten and Stallone - Capponi Francesca to take the third place. Attack has produced some top class performances this year after being stepped up and to this level and really looks at home over the big and technical tracks.

Another notable performance was an excellent 7th for Chauvanist in the 1.40m two phase contest. Chauvanist is another one of Dan's horses that have stepped up this year and shown that he is competitive at this height at International shows.

In other news, Dan's excellent season has enabled him to climb up the ranking table high enough to compete in the International classes at this years HOYS. Dan will be having a very busy show as he has also qualified for three of the top national classes as well.

Dan top ranked young rider - wins thame area trial

Dan's hard work, extensive International travel and excellent performances this year have paid off in the rankings as Dan now heads the British Young Riders rankings ahead of William Whitaker. Dan has also broken into the top twenty of the senior ranks in 17th place, which is a good indication of the progress Dan has made in only his second full year at senior level.

Just to emphasise the point Dan went ahead and won the Area Trial at Thame - 31st July - on Attack II. One of the most improved horses in the yard, Attack has looked in top form recently and won the Trail in impressive fashion, this a week after jumping very well in the International Stairway at the New Forst County Show.

Dan selected for 2010 young riders team

Dan's outstanding season has resulted in selection for the 2010 UK Young Riders Team for the 2010 European Young Rider Championship in Jardy, France between 13th and 18th July 2010. "It's always an honour to represent your country" said Dan "I'm really looking forward to it, we have a great team and I think we have a chance to do something really good at the Championships. Attack has been in great form recently and hopefully he will bring this into the championships. Representing my country at the Europeans was one of my main targets this year so it's nice to get the chance to jump in such a strong team" added Dan.

The Tretorn International Young Rider European Team is as follows:

 

20 year old Joe Clayton will ride his own 11 year old bay gelding Saveur. Joe is currently based at Michael Whitaker’s yard in Nottinghamshire.
 
21 year old Daniel Moseley who is based with William Funnell will ride Carol Toliver’s 12 year old bay stallion Kepi d’Elle.
 
20 year old Daniel Neilson from Essex will ride Celia Mason’s 10 year old bay gelding Attack II. Dan is currently based with Katrina Moore.
 
20 year old Matthew Sampson from Sheffield, South Yorkshire will ride his own 10 year chestnut mare Pitts Daughter.
 
21 year old William Whitaker from Huddersfield, West Yorkshire will ride the 11 year old bay gelding Sarlino owned by his father Iain.
 
The Young Rider European Team ~Competition will take place on Friday 16th July with the Individual taking place on Sunday 18th July

ATTACK STARS AT CSI*** AT CANTELEU

Dan took Attack, one of his most improved horses during 2010, and three of the younger horses, Chauvanist, Varo M and Savira to the CSI*** at Canteleu, France this last weekend - 24th - 27th June.

Without doubt the star of the team was Attack, who after finishing an excellent 9th on day two in the 1.50m CSI*** PX PRO MARITIME URA SOMAP, was simply brilliant in the 1.55m Grand Prix finishing 3rd behind Tim Stockdale riding Fresh Direct Kalico Bay and Penelope LePrevost riding Oscar Des Fontaines. Taking this big step up in his stride, Attack was foot perfect in the first round and then produced an excellent jump-off just finishing less than a second behind the winner. "He was great today" said Dan "He has improved all year and he keeps surprising us as he takes every step up in his stride, he could become a very very good horse" added a clearly delighted Dan.

Dan also had some nice performance with the youngest member of the team Savira who jumped a very nice double clear on day one to finish equal first and then followed that up with an excellent seventh place on day two. Chauvanist was also in good form on day three jumping a nice double clear to finish 10th place in the 1.45m CSI*** PX SERVICE VERT MJR PEG ECOLIT.

DAN AND VARO M BOOK HOYS FOXHUNTER FINAL TICKET

Dan booked another 2010 HOYS place with the very talented Varo M qualifying for the prestigious Foxhunter Championship Final. With one to go in the jump off Dan was in first and second place with Varo M and Chauvanist (already qualified for the HOYS 7&8 year old Championship final), but Chauvanist was just pushed out of the final placings. However, these outstanding 8yr olds continue in great form and will now go abroad to gain more invaluable experience. "That was a shame for Chauvanist" said Dan "They both jumped great and I thought I had done enough to get them both through. We've still got another chance and hopefully we can get Chauvanist to the final" added Dan

DAN IN GREAT FORM AT LATEST INTERNATIONAL EVENTS

LISBON CSIO**** 27TH - 30TH MAY

Dan continued his outstanding International season with another excellent show in Lisbon. Again the star of the show was High Tone Z who was quite brilliant in the International Knock Out Class. After beating Alexandra Carter (RSA) in the first round, Dan and High Tone Z made short work of Franck Schillewaert (FRA) in round two. The semi final was a close call with Dan just getting ahead of Julien Gonin (FRA) to make it to the final. Saving her best till last High Tone Z was brilliant in the final with Dan beating Andrea Herholdt (ITA) to win the €2,500 first prize.

Varo M, who has been stepped up recently, was also in excellent form in his two classes. His first 1.45m jump off class was a top class effort jumping double clear to finish in 3rd place behind Ludo Philippaerts - Vadetta vh Mettenhof and Stephane Lafouge - Pontiac. This was his best International finish and Varo M looked completely at home over what was a big and technical track. Varo M completed another successful show with a further placing finishing 8th in the 1.40m two phase contest.

"High Tone Z was great, her level of performance at every show is amazing and she feels as good as ever" said Dan "We were very pleased with Varo M, he continues to improve and this was his best performance at an International show"

VIMIERO CSIO*** 4th-6th JUNE - HIGH TONE Z IN GREAT FORM

Three classes, three placings no fences down little guessing that this was the result sheet for High Tone Z at the CSI*** show at Vimiero. The first of these outstanding performances was an 8th place in her warm up class the 1.40m two phase contest. On day two Dan and High Tone Z really stepped up and just failed to catch the winner settling for a top class second place in the 1.45m jump off class. Finishing off another outstanding show the grey machine again produced an excellent display to finish in a very good 4th place in the 1.40m speed class. " She was just outstanding" said Dan "I have so much faith in her at the moment I just let her go and she does the rest, an amazing mare" added a smiling Dan.

PORTIMAO CSI ***

Dan brought 4 horses, Milena 8, High Tone Z, Varo M and Attack II to the CSI*** show at Portimao, Portugal - June 11th - 13th, and had another outstanding show

Day one was a very solid start for Dan. Varo M looked in top condition with a very nice clear in the 1,40m A4 contest, also in the same class was Attack who like his stable mate jumped a nice solid clear round. After High Tone Z had the last fence down in the 1.45m contest, Milena 8 produced the highlight of day one with a double clear in the 1.45m €20,000 World ranking class to finish in an excellent 6th place.

If day one was a good day at the office, day two was simply outstanding. Dan's day got off to a wonderful start with yet another International victory for High Tone Z. This amazing mare has produced some wonderful performances recently, but this was just a special performance as she destroyed the opposition to win the Small Grand PRIX in fantastic style. There simply cannot be a more consistent partnership in the country than Dan and High Tone Z in International classes this year and she shows no sign of slowing down. Not content with winning the class, Dan & Varo M were next up and showed what an exciting future he has with an excellent 3rd place in the same class.

It appeared that the day could not get any better, but Dan had other ideas. In the 1.45m €20,000 World Ranking Class, Dan completed an amazing day of jumping with a victory on Milena 8. After Dan & Attack II had just jumped a fantastic clear / 4 faults to finish in a very good 10th place, Milena 8 produced one of her top class performances jumping double clear to win the class in brilliant style. When this mare produces a this type of performance she is competitive in the very biggest classes. "That was an amazing day" said Dan "They were all outstanding, High Tone Z was High Tone Z, just puts in an amazing effort every time. Milena 8 felt as good as she's felt in a long while and I hope she's back to her top class best".

Even though the final day of the show could not rival the second day, Dan and the string still had a very solid day. Milena 8 had a good spin in the 1.40m two phase contest finishing the show in fine style with a 3rd place. Next up was Varo M, who despite being stepped up to the bigger classes is really starting to show consistency over the bigger tracks. In the competitive 1.40m two phase contest, Varo M produced another eye catching performance jumping double clear to finish in a very good 10th place. After a very unlucky pole on day two, Attack II was out to make amends in the €24,000 World Ranking Event 1.50m contest and very nearly did. Even though Dan and Attack II had one pole, he really did produce a fantastic display of jumping over a very big Grand PRIX track and looks ready to take on the step into very big classes.

"The whole string is still in great shape" said Dan "The team have done a fantastic job with the horses, they all look great, feel really strong and are in great form. I'm very lucky to have such a great team behind me and would not be in this position without there help. Hopefully we can continue this form through the summer and pick up some more good classes" added Dan.

CBBC SPORTSROUND – HIGHLIGHT DAN NEILSON FROM THE ADDINGTON MANOR SPRING CLASSIC

Don’t miss CBBC Sportsround this Friday when they feature former Pony & Junior European Championships Gold medallist Dan Neilson.

With media interest rising in British Showjumping it was great to have the BBC on site at the Addington Spring Classic show last Friday (7th May) where they were gathering footage not only of Daniel Neilson but also some of the up and coming horses competing there. With only some of the extensive footage collected being included in this initial programme, it is hoped that further material will be used for future features during the rest of the season.

CBBC Presenter Seema Pathal was on site throughout the day with Dan, focusing on his journey in to the sport, his current successes on the International and National stage along with his future senior Nations Cups and Olympic aspirations.

Dan is a member of the 'Start Squad' within the World Class Development Programme which underpins the World Class Performance Programme. Both of which share the same aim of delivering more medals for Great Britain at Championship level by both supporting the sport and individual riders via UK Sport/Lottery Funding.

To watch this initial feature, make sure you tune in to CBBC at 18:35 this Friday (14th May) or BBC at 07:25am Saturday morning. For those that miss it, the programme will be available for viewing online at www.bbc.co.uk/CBBC - Artical sourced from the BJSA website

Dan and Chauvanist qualify for 2010 HOYS 7&8 yrs Final

Fresh back from his fantastic show in San Giovanni, Italy - Dan added a most welcome victory on home soil winning the 2010 HOYS 7&8 yrs Championship Final qualifying round on Chauvanist at Addington Manor. This young horse has been another who has progressed every year and appears to take the step ups in height all in his stride. Over what was a big Bob Ellis designed track, Dan and Chauvansit were in great form and Dan chased down Philip Miller and Text Back in the jump off to qualify in good style. Dan will be hoping to carry this form into Royal Windsor this week (12th - 16th May), before he again takes the string abroad looking for more European success.

High Tone Z & Attack in brilliant form in San Giovanni

There simply cannot be a more consistent mare in the country than High Tone Z and she again was in brilliant form. Dan and the flying grey mare flew out of the traps on the very first day in the 1.40m International class, where she made quick work of the opposition, jumping double clear to complete a hugely impressive victory. Jumping at her fast and fluent best, Dan and High Tone Z took all the turn backs available to win the class by nearly a second. As equally impressive in the 1.40m speed contest on day two, Dan and High Tone Z just failed to catch the winner, having to settle for a courageous second place. Not content with two top quality performance, High Tone Z finished the show with yet another double clear in the 1.40m two phase class to yet again finish in a 2nd place. Outstanding the whole show, didn't lower a single pole, High Tone Z shows no sign of slowing down and this dashing grey mare is credit to Dan and the whole team back in Essex. "There's really not a lot you can say about her" said Dan "She's just a machine at the moment, she never looked like having a pole the whole show and just maintains her incredible run of form, she's a pleasure to ride at the moment" added Dan

Attack is another of Dan's string in impressive form and he took this form to Italy to produce a stunning performance to win Small Grand PRIX on the second day of the show. After a 'pop round' on the first day to sharpen him up, Dan and Attack always had the Small Grand PRIX in mind and the plan was executed perfectly. In a class of 80 starters and last to go in the jump off, Attack showed why Dan, Jason and team have such high hopes for him, turning inside to number 2, a big square oxer across the middle of this vast arena, then swung 180 back on himself to the final line of water tray then vertical where he took out 2 strides and went 5 to the last, a very large and wide oxer to complete one of his best International victories. "He was great today" said Dan "I asked everything of him in the jump off and he responded every time I asked, he's a really brave horse and hopefully we can take this form into the summer" added Dan.

As usual, the big jumping Milena 8 took on the 20k World ranking classes and again had an excellent show. After a very uncharacteristic 8 faults on day one, Milena 8 quickly got back to her usual self with a fantastic effort in the 1.50m big class on day two, just rolling the very last fence to finish on four. In the 35k Grand PRIX on the final day, Dan and Milena 8 again were luckless. Jumping one of the best rounds of he career, she produced brilliant display of jumping but just put a toe on the tape of the the water to finish on four. "Can't believe that" said Dan "That's the best she has jumped at this level, it was really big and technical and she gave me a great feel all the way round and I didn't realise we put a toe on the tape, but that's showjumping and if she jumps like this she should quickly make amends" added Dan

 

Dan maintains his form at Italy CSI*** Show

Dan took four horses to the CSI 3 Star show in Manerbio, Italy (9th-11th April), the really exciting 6 yr old Zavira, High Tone Z, Attack and Varo M.

On the first day of this quality show Dan got the string up and going in fine style. The six year old Zavira got things off and running with a fine double clear in the 6yr old class to finish a fine 10th. Varo M carried on the good form with a very clean clear round in the 1.35m class. Varo M is a neat and accurate jumper and Dan has been quietly producing this very nice horse over the last 18 months. Attack was given a nice school around in the 1.45m class, jumping a nice clear round and looking on very good terms with himself. Dan and High Tone Z jumped the big class on day one, the 1.50m - 20k World Ranking class, and were very unlucky to have one pole down finishing with the fastest four, but this fantastic mare showed she was in her usual top form.

Day two was a flawless Day for Dan. Again Zavira got things up and running with another impressive display of jumping going double clear in the young horse class. Dan and Varo M stepped up on day two and produced a quality display of jumping in the 1.45m contest finishing double clear and just outside the money. Attack took on the big 1.50m class on the second day and was very classy jumping an excellent clear round to finish just outside the placings. As is so often the case recently High Tone Z was the star on day two adding yet another International victory to her portfolio, winning the 10k Small Grand PRIX in tremendous fashion. Chasing a fast time in the jump off, Dan and High Tone Z were very impressive moving swiftly and smoothly round the jump off course and clip over half a second off the time, this mare really is in the form of her life.

The final day of this International show was another good day for Dan. The youngster Zavira completed a faultless show with another double clear in the young horse class. The lovely young horse has showed huge potential at the show and will be an exciting prospect during 2010. Varo M just touched one pole in the 1.45 accumulator was not over taxed at the show and is being built up for a summer campaign. High Tone Z was looking to add to her success in the 1.45m Accumulator contest but just flicked off a tricky upright to finish with one down, but yet another top class show for this brilliantly consistent mare. Attack took on the 1.50m 35k Grand PRIX and looked in great form round the circuit, but a novicey mistake at the water cost Dan and Attack their place in the jump off.

"I was very pleased with all of them" said Dan "We have a very nice youngster in Zavira. He jumped really well all week and we'll aim him at the age classes this year. We didn't want to over tax Varo M and pretty much jumped him round every day with no pressure, we'll hopefully have a big summer with him. Can't really say any more about the grey mare, she still feels as good as ever and is just a machine at the moment. Attack jumped great the whole show, it was a real shame about the water in the Grand PRIX, but he is showing himself to be at home in the big classes and we could have a really exciting summer with him."

Dan outstanding yet again at Dourtmund CSI show

In what has already been a fantastic March, Dan yet again excelled in International competition winning again, this time at the CSI show in Dortmund. With the likes of Marcus Ehning, Vincent Voorn and Ludger Beerbaum at the show, this was nothing short of a top class event but Dan took all this in his stride with another set of impressive displays.

Dan brought three of his string to the show, the very promising Varo M, Attack II and the very much in form Milena 8. Dan started off very quietly on day one of the show with a very nice clear on Varo M. This promising youngster has already had good experience and it clearly showed in Dortmund. Day two was a spectacular day for Dan, after jumping another excellent clear round on Varo M to finish 5th, Dan and Milena 8 left a high class field in their wake with a superb double clear round to win the big 1.55m class. Dan was at his confident best in the jump off and with Milena 8 answering all of Dan's calls they took all the difficult turns to win by nearly three quarters of a second. Milena 8 has been in fantastic form in the big International classes this year and she wasn't finished, jumping another superb double clear to finish third the big 1.50m class on day 3 just failing to catch Janne-Friederike MEYER riding CELLAGON LAMBRASCO and Vincent Voorn riding AUDI'S REFLECTION. "She was simply brilliant" said Dan "It was big and technical but she took it all in her stride and gave me everything when I asked her. She is now really confident in the biggest of classes and we're all trilled with her" added a delighted Dan.

Not to be outdone, Varo M completed the show with a very good double clear to finish in 4th place in the young horses final. Dan and Varo M completed the week without lowering a pole and looks very accomplished on the International stage. "He was really good all week and is very progressive, we will step him up this year and see what happens, but he has a great attitude and I'll think he could be really good"

Dan completes great Villeneuve Loubet 2010 Festival

Dan has arrived in France for one of his favourite shows, the three week CSI** festival at Vlleneuve Loubet. Dan has taken a big squad of seven horses with him incliding - Milena 8 , High Tone Z, Iolanthe, Pikolino, Attack, Lorca de Caryan and Arielle.

Dan third in CSI*** Zuidlaren Grand PRIX

Dan and Milena 8 put in a fantastic performance to finish in 3rd place in the Zuidlaren Grand Prix 1.55m. In what was a very high class field Milena 8 built on her impressive performances at the Nantes CSI *** show, to produce two quality rounds of jumping to finish just behind Nathalie Van Der Mei - Heecchiem's Tersina and Kevin Gielen - Robbdoes. This was a top class effort by Dan and Milen 8 finishing ahead of the likes of Jessica Kurten, Albert Zoer, Jos Lansink and Eric Van Der Vleuten and looking comfortable at this height and is clearly a big step forward. "She was very very good today" said Dan "I thought I had a bit of a chance in the jump off but I didn't want to press too hard and let her down. I hope we can build on this and she's starting to show that she can jump at the level and be competitive"

Dan had other noteworthy performances at the show, with Attack producing two excellent performances to jump clear in the 1.40m class on the second day and finishing the show with an impressive 5th place in the 1.45m Accumulator. Dan also stepped up Varo M to the 1.45m class and although she had one down jumped very well. This young horse is super careful and scopey and he continues to improve and will be a valuable member of the squad in 2010.

More International success for Dan at Nantes CSI*** show

Dan showed no signs of slowing down with another outstanding show at the Nantes CSI*** International event in late January.

Quick out of the blocks, Dan started the show with some very solid rounds on day one. Varo M and Chauvanist contested the 7/8yrs old Qualifier and both were in excellent form. After Chauvanist had jumped well, having just one pole, Dan and Varo M looked very impressieve to finish in equal first place with a smooth clear round. The very consistent High Tone Z and Iolanathe both jumped very well in their first class of the show, both having just one pole, but without doubt it was Milena 8 that was the star on day one. Milena 8 has been jumping the very big classes without much luck recently but on the first day of this International show she was on great form jumping a brilliant double clear in the €20,000 World Ranking class to finish a very impressive 2nd

Dan built on his excellent first day with another display of quality and consistent jumping. Varo M and Chauvanist were again in excellent form in the 7/8yr old Final both jumping double clear to finish 2nd and 3rd respectively. These two young horses have been given plenty of time to find their feet and have been excellently managed by Jason and Dan and have improved every year.With this invaluable International experience under their belts both horse look to have an exciting future and 2010 should be a very interesting year for both these talented young horses. HIgh Tone Z has been a money machine recently, and it didn't take her long to yet again get into the winners enclosure with a superb clear round to win the 1.35m A4 contest. This lovely grey mare is on fire at the moment and the enthusiasm she shows every time she gets into the ring is remarkable. Milena 8 was again in top form in the 1.50m €20,000 World Ranking class and was very very unlucky to have just one down to finish in the money in 9th place.

The final day of the show saw more success for Dan and the team. After Varo M jumped an excellent double clear to finish 5th in the 7/8 yr old two phase contest, Dan and High Tone Z decided it was time to win another class with a flawless display in the 1.35m final. Dan was simply brilliant in the jump off with High Tone Z answering his every call taking two amazing turn backs to win convincingly. Iolanthe, who has been rested on day two, was stepped up to the big 1.45m €20,000 World Ranking class on the final day and produced an very impressive display. After jumping clear in the first round she just rubbed a vertical coming off a corner but still finished a very good 10th place. After producing two huge performances on the first two days, Milena 8 finished her show in the Grand Prix and just ran out of petrol finishing with two down.

"I thought it went really well" said a clearly delighted Dan "It was nice to give the younger horses some International experience and both of them stepped up nicely we were really pleased with both of them. High Tone Z was great again, she just tries so hard and is very very genuine, winning 2 classes at this level is very impressive. Iolanthe jumped very well in what was a step up for her and was very unlucky in one of the big classes to have just one down in the jump off. She's very good and hopefully this could be a big year for her. Milena 8 felt really well and showed so much scope on the first two day. She deserved her placings at this show because she's been very unlucky recently. She can handle the very big classes and might surprise over the next few weeks."

DAN Has great start to 2010 with more CSI** wins

Dan confidently brought his impressive 2009 form into the new year with two hard fought wins at the Zwolle CSI** International show in Holland. Dan competed his top three horses High Tone Z, Iolanthe and Milena 8 at the Dutch four day show and all showed that 2010 could be a very good year.

The impressive High Tone Z had yet another outstanding show and quickly got into her stride. After having one pole down in her warm up class, Dan and High Tone Z quickly set about their business with a very fluent 3rd place in the 1.35m Grand Prix qualifier. The qualifying class was the perfect setup for the Grand Prix in which Dan and High Tone Z were simply brilliant winning the class in impressive fashion from a very competitive field. "She felt great from the very first day" said Dan "She was quick and safe and when I asked her some serious questions in the Grand Prix jump off she responded to every one, she feels on top form and the more International experience she gets can only help her progress at International level" added Dan.

Iolanthe, who has been in excellent form over the past few months, showed she is as well as ever in 2010. This dapple grey mare came flying out of the gates on day one and produced a brilliant double clear to win the 1.40m jump off class in great style. Iolanthe is deceptively fast and never gave her opposition any chance in the jump off with a fast and fluent display of accurate jumping. "She was very fresh and enthusiastic from the very start" said Dan "I knew we'd have a good chance in the jump off and she really was explosive when I set her alight, she keeps improving and has now established herself at this height at International level" added a clearly delighted Dan.

Iolanthe was again impressive on day two having just one pole down in the 1.40m jump off class while chasing a very competitive time, and was even unluckier in the Grand Prix as she had the very last fence down in the jump off to finish just outside the placings.

Dan jumped Milena 8 in the big classes at the show and this big jumping dark bay mare continued to show good form in the bigger classes. After having a couple of poles down in her warm up class, Milena 8 was in very good form in the 2nd Grand Prix qualifier and although she had one pole down she jumped with great accuracy over what was a big and testing track. With that good performance on day two being good enough to qualify her for the final of the Grand Prix, Milena 8 again just lowered one pole in the final after another good round of show jumping. "I thought she jumped very well. She was a bit rusty on the first day but the next two days I thought she was very good and with a bit more luck we could have easily been in both jump offs" said Dan.