CNN
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Budding show jumping star Michael Duffy has ridden many horses during his rise through the ranks but one in particular stands out.
“Without a doubt my horse of a lifetime is EFS Top Contender,” Duffy told CNN EQ, having become inseparable with the chestnut stallion on the Global Champions Tour and League.
“I suppose he’s so special to me because I’ve had the most success on him for a start, but also I’ve really gotten to know him,” added the Irishman.
“I got him when he was still quite green at the top level of the sport so to be able to help develop him during my first time on the tour, it meant we kind of grew at the same rate.”
- Source:
CNN
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Published
9:40 AM EDT, Thu July 5, 2018
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Horse of a lifetime: Don VHP Z
Duffy, who in 2012 became the youngest ever senior Irish national champion aged 17, now rides for the Miami Celtics.
And the Irishman’s fondest memory with Top Contender “would have to be Mexico City,” where the pair helped the team to victory in the Global Champions League competition.
“It was the first time on the tour for both of us, so to go out there and win the league with the Celtics was incredible,” said Duffy. “We went in as the underdogs and it was great to be on the podium.”
- Source:
CNN
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Horse of a lifetime: Casall ASK
Duffy acknowledges that he’s had particular success with Top Contender but denies that’s the sole source of his affection.
“He’s a really soft horse, a really kind horse,” said Duffy. “For an impressive stallion he’s actually very easy to manage. He stables beside the mares, he travels beside the mares. He really is a big-hearted horse.
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“I just feel a really good bond with him. I feel I know him inside-out. The minute I sit in the saddle or pull him out of the stable, I know exactly how he feels.”
