Melton at sharp end of World Equestrian Games

Show jumper Holly Smith is set to embarked on the biggest test of her career on Wednesday as she lined up for Britain in the World Equestrian Games in the United States.
Holly Smith in action at Hickstead this summer with another stable star Quality Old Joker EMN-180919-133219002Holly Smith in action at Hickstead this summer with another stable star Quality Old Joker EMN-180919-133219002
Holly Smith in action at Hickstead this summer with another stable star Quality Old Joker EMN-180919-133219002

The Wymeswold rider was one of just four riders selected for the Games, in Tryon, North Carolina, and was due to begin her test with Heart’s Destiny on Wednesday afternoon at 3.30pm.

It’s been a swift rise to prominence for the combination who only began working together last year, but Smith has represented the British team several times, most notably with her previous star horse Dougie Douglas.

“I’ve had ‘Ted’ just over a year and this is already a massive achievement,” she added.

“This will be the first time we’re heading out there, but I really trust in his ability and I think he has the scope to do well.”

Melton has already enjoyed big success at the global championships with Caroline Moore playing a significant part in a famous double eventing gold on Monday.

Moore, who lives in Melton and runs Vale View Equestrian Centre in Old Dalby, helps train Ros Canter who became world individual champion and anchored Britain to team gold, and also co-owns Canter’s mount Allstar B.