Martinborough horsewoman Anna Stephen and her star charge Constantine have placed second in the Cathay Pacific New Zealand Grand Prix Series which came to an end at the Taranaki show held in Hawera over the weekend.
Stephen and Constantine finished with 100 points, collected from wins in Grand Prix classes atFeilding, Wairarapa, Manawatu, Central Hawke's Bay, Wanganui and the national showjumping derby at Taupo and minor placings at Pukahu, Woodhill Sands (Auckland), Gisborne and Horowhenua.
The national series title was won by Chris Harris of Christchurch on Te Peka Luciana, with Katie McVean from Mystery Creek third on Dunstan Daffodil. Fourth was Sally Steiner of Tauranga on Wickcliff Branigan, followed by Simon Wilson (Waipukurau) on Cortaflex Right Royal and Robert Steele (Taranaki) on Gospel.
Tinui's Morgan Percy and her pony Surprise Illusion finished the ESNZ Pony Grand Prix Series in sixth position, picking up a fourth placing in Saturday's final round.
Also prominent was Rebecca Presow of Eketahuna, who had a win in the 1.05m class on La Bella Vida. Fourth was Masterton's Kirstin Maxwell on Kiwidula.
Stephen rode Morningside into sixth over 1.10m and fourth over 1.15m, and Sarah Falloon of Masterton rode Country Rox into a minor placing over 1.20m.
The New Zealand Horse of the Year Show, in Hastings from March 15 to 20, is the final show of the season and a strong Wairarapa contingent is expected.
