Charlton has the calming effect on Rua

KATHY Charlton, who groomed for Cathal Daniels at last week’s European eventing championships in Luhmühlen, is in Burghley this weekend but purely as a spectator.

Back home for just two days at the Class Event Horses yard she runs in Co Kilkenny with partner Paddy Cleary, Kathy revealed how she came to care for Rioghan Rua at the German venue and, earlier in the year, at Bramham in England.

“I’ve been good friends with Cathal since he rode Match My Class for me a couple of years ago. When he said he had problems getting to Bramham in June, I offered to drive the mare over and groom for him as well,” Charlton explained.

Notorious for getting very hot and agitated with the crowds and atmosphere, Kathy seems to have a calming effect on Rua. “Rua seems to like me, I chill her out, and as they won the Under 25 four-star at Bramham it seemed a good idea that I’d groom for them again at Luhmühlen – I actually told Cathal I’d be coming with him!

“I was really proud to be involved with the Irish team at such a high level last week and then when Cathal won the bronze medal, it was just fantastic. Of course, I’ve only been associated with the mare on these two big days and there is a team of people who have looked after her at home in Co Kildare.”

Kathy is at Burghley to support two horses who passed through her hands, the Zara Tindall-ridden Class Affair and the Oliver Townend-partnered Ballaghmor Class who was second in the newly-termed CCI5*-L last year having won 12 months previously.