Hayley Watson-Greaves and the stunning, WG Rubins Nite put in a superb performance at this year’s Le Mieux British Dressage National Championships to win the prestigious title of National Champion.
Riding her long-term partner, the 13-year-old Rubin Royal gelding WG Rubins Nite, TopSpec-sponsored Hayley secured her first ever National title after a fantastic and confidently ridden test.
A test that in fact prompted John Bowen who was commenting that ‘there was not one foot out of place, it was beat perfect. Hayley must be thrilled – there’s definitely a competitor inside her after that performance’.
Earning a score of 78.43%, Hayley and ‘Squeaks’ as he is known, may have just been pipped to the post for the Freestyle title, however their brilliant performance in the Grand Prix gave them an average score of 76.18% – enough to win the title, a brilliant achievement for the duo.
Said Hayley after the prize giving: “I can’t quite believe it; I’m a little bit speechless
“He’s just absolutely awesome and tries his heart out every time. I love him to pieces, we have a great partnership and he’s got me where I am today.
“I know my freestyle really well and I knew the pressure was on because it was so close with the competition, but I love riding him, I just went in there to enjoy it and have fun – which is what I always do with him.”
With campaigning for the World Cup as their next step, Hayley announced that the event was the last time the pair was riding to that particular music.
Added Hayley: “I’ve got bits and pieces of my new floor plan as I’d like to make it a little bit more difficult for the World Cup competitions – although I’ve been told that it’s already quite challenging!
“I’m hoping to run through my floor plan next week and then I’ll be getting Chris Lever, who does my music, to compose it in time for the end of October, hopefully.”