SAM Watson defied the very worst of the weekend’s weather conditions, to land an emphatic and rewarding victory in a highly competitive CIC3*. Riding Ardagh Highlight, Watson brilliantly pulled up from seventh spot after dressage (47.3) and, having recorded one of only two show jumping clear rounds, progressed to deliver the fastest time in the country.

The pair had rerouted after a disappointing trip to Blenheim the previous week, and as Watson explained, “this is the horse that I know. Blenheim did not go according to plan. He suffered from the atmosphere and was a bit green, but he was only competing at one-star last year. He was really on song today, and is probably the best horse I have ever sat on. The ground bought the best out in him – he’s as tough a galloper as Bushman, and you don’t find that out till you get to this level.”