Rider credits 40-year-old bridle – made before he was born – for helping him win grand prix

['Jennifer Donald', 'Jennifer Is Passionate At Showjumping', 'Her Role As H H S Showjumping Editor Has Taken Her Around The World Reporting Shows', 'Interviewing Riders', 'Connections', 'Those Involved Behind The Scenes. Since Joining H H Bbc Sport In', 'She Has Written On Every Subject Across The Equestrian Sphere', 'Turnout Rugs To Stable Management', 'Has Interviewed Gold Medallists', 'World Champions'] Horse & Hound 2026-01-29 18:17:29

Showjumper James Smith credits a bridle bought in 1986 for helping him win the winter grand prix at Aintree International Equestrian Centre. The 33-year-old rider had been struggling to find a bridle that suited 14-year-old stallion Tayvale Hunky Dory, but showjumper-turned-coach Alan Fazakerley stepped in to help at last weekend’s Winter Classic II show (22-25 January). “We’ve been messing around with Hunky Dory’s bridle and Alan had a hackamore in his car that he bought in 1986,” explained James of the four-decades-old tack, made before he was even born. “The line to the double was difficult, you had to come round the last fence and it gave you a chance not to be square. To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2026, subscribe to the Horse & Hound websiteYou may also be interested in: