A first-season pair is formidable in open and junior ranks, a mini partnership overcomes a setback and mares make their mark

HIGHLIGHTS 15–19 October

A lead-rein combination stands supreme against the odds, a riding pony partnership enjoy a spectacular swansong and family teams come up trumps

BICTON ARENA (2) 22–26 October

A small pony proves mighty, a Texan is surprised by HOYS and an expectant mother gets out of hospital just in time

THINGS ARE very quiet here at the moment. It’s weird - I am used to a life overfull of things to do. For the first time in 20 years I have no building project on the go, and general maintenance, fenci