TAVISTOCK horse owner Mandy Medcraft has just returned from Pompadour, France after watching her horse compete for Great Britain for the first time.

Wringler, known as Wriggles, is a 14-year old grey KWPN Dutch warmblood by Rhodium out of a Pion mare, and been owned by Mandy for three years; the horse was ridden at the event by Holsworthy-based dressage rider and trainer John Chubb.

John and Wringler’s international dressage debut took place at the Fédération Equestre Internationale, Consours Dressage International 3 competition in Arnac-Pompadour, France, June 23-25.

Eleven nations were represented at the event and as well as the expected participation of established dressage riders from Germany, the Netherlands, Spain and France, the competition also saw riders from Canada and Thailand taking part.

John achieved marks in the mid-sixties in both the Prix-St-Georges and intermediate one classes.

‘John is an absolutely brilliant horseman who has worked his socks off to get Wriggles this far,’ said Mandy. ‘People seem to forget that to achieve this level of competition demands hard work, dedication and total focus; John has those qualities in spades. I’m so very pleased for him, Wriggles and our technical staff.’

John was also delighted.

‘This has been a great experience and one that would not have been possible without Mandy, my support team, sponsors, friends and family,’ said an excited John on his return to the UK. ‘As well as our achievements it has been brilliant spending time with the other British team members.’

John grew up with horses around him and prior to his career as a dressage rider, used to event and show jump. He is now based at Coles Mill Stables training yard in Holsworthy.

‘My first international compet-ition experience has been fabulous,’ said John. ‘I’m so proud of my team and supporters for making this happen and every element has been an adventure and learning experience. Wriggles has been so accepting and coped amazingly with everything. He is a star.’