Trouncing a top-class field to gain the biggest win of her career, Ennis opened her challenge by recording a smart dressage mark (42.1) and forged ahead after delivering two faultless jumping performances. As one of the fastest in the country, the pair carried the addition of 6.6 time penalties leaving them with a fractional advantage over the French rider Cedric Lyard (Cadeau du Roi) and British international Izzy Taylor with Orlando.

“Shocked and thrilled – as I wasn’t expecting that at all,” admitted Ennis. “I knew that the cross-country was going to be big, but I have to say I didn’t think it would be as strong. He was very relaxed the whole weekend and felt very good in all three phases. We have been working hard with Ian Woodhead for the dressage and Ian Fearon for the show jumping, which I feel has made an enormous difference.”