A PRIZE-WINNING stallion based at Lewdown has recently been awarded the prestigious title of Supreme Champion of Champions by the Native Pony Association.

Trevarth Black Lad, a Section D Welsh Cob stallion was one of two horses from the Rexon Stud who qualified to compete for the award after a successful year in the show ring. The other being a Miniature Shetland named Little Vic Of Kelly.

At the judging final, which took place at Barguse Riding Centre, all 60 champions were paraded to the music of 'We Are The Champions' before performing to the judge on an individual basis.

The judge was Lizzie Bryant of Chippenham, Wiltshire whose experience includes riding for the Queen. She had the difficult task of judging the champion prize winning stock against the merits of their particular breeds, and described Black Lad as having particular star quality and tremendous presence.

Black Lad, sired by Parc Cardi and out of Trevarth Black Lady, was purchased from the Trevarth Stud as a two-year old, ten years ago, and has been standing at Rexon Stud ever since. Black Lad has won many championships both in-hand and under saddle, including the Mountain & Moorland Championship at this year's Okehampton Show.

Rachael Grylls, stud manager and family member, who regularly rides Black Lad says he has a wonderful temperament.

Black Lad is also due to represent the Welsh breed at the Equine Fair to be held at the Bath & West showground later this month.

This has been an excellent year for the Lewdown-based Rexon Stud, which has seen success in competition, including at the Royal Cornwall showground, growth in business and further development of schooling and breeding capabilities, including investment in facilities for artificial insemination.

The stud is owned by Captain P G McGarry and family and has four generations of Welsh and Miniature Shetland pony enthusiasts in residence, all very committed to breeding and producing quality livestock.