Here we go behind the scenes and find out more about Randalstown Rolex, produced and ridden by TopSpec-sponsored Robert Walker.
Could this eye-catching lightweight be the next superstar cob on Robert Walker’s yard? His results so far certainly show promise for the future and when asked about the stunning black cob, showman Robert has a broad smile on his face.
The six-year-old came to Robert from Sam McAteer in Ireland and is owned by showing supporter Paul Mortimer.
With a plentiful character and bursting with that ‘look at me’ factor, Rolex arrived a week before the 2014 Horse of the Year Show and quickly made his mark on the Cheshire yard.
Having enjoyed much success in the world of showing, the North Lincolnshire-based owner is hoping that Rolex may follow in the success of his previous big-winning cob, Tommy Tucker.
After bringing Rolex over from Ireland, Robert did some initial work with him before he enjoyed a short winter holiday with Paul, then it was all systems go in preparation for the 2015 season.
Like many cobs, Rolex is a good-doer, once back at Robert’s he was put on to a TopSpec feeding regime of Comprehensive Feed Balancer, Cool Condition Cubes and TopChop Alfalfa to give him time to add that bit of extra muscle development to have him ready for the show ring.
Said Robert: “He came back into work in January to be prepared for the show season and is just proving to be a fantastic horse, a real showman and loves the atmosphere of a big occasion.”
With the season underway Rolex’ successes include Champion Cob – BSHA Northern Spring Show, Champion Cob – North of England Spring Show, Champion Cob – Cheshire Premier, Lightweight Cob winner and Reserve Champion – Nottinghamshire Country Show, Novice Cob winner and Reserve Champion – Royal Windsor Horse Show.
Rolex is certainly proving to be a yard favourite, especially with Robert and Sarah’s young daughter, Isabella.
Sarah says: “He is such a poppet and really sweet. He’s so easy in every way, everyone loves him.”
So what does make him so special? Sarah is quick in her response, “It’s got to be his amazing foreleg, which is a fantastic attribute in a cob. His temperament is great and he’s lovely to work with. He’s also got a good step.” Sarah describes the lovely sparkle Rolex has on his face “and he really wants to be a show horse, which always helps.”
Robert clearly holds this horse in high regard, confident that he will fulfill the potential he has already demonstrated.
He’s certainly aptly named – he’s got style and reliability in abundance.