Competing at the Royal Melbourne Show in September, the pair proved that with more practice they could take home a few titles in years to come.
Although they didn’t place in any of the four competitions due to fence height difficulties and large crowds, they now know how high to raise the bar for next time.
Only days later they arrived at the Nathalia show with five young horses who all placed in their class, with Grand Dette winning the 90 and BP Converte the 105.
And in early October in Sydney Boris and Tori arrived at the Opening Ceremony’s indoor arena for two perfect rounds and a leading time until the last rider, a speedy Queenslander, came out in first.
Then to make up for lost placings Tori and Boris came out second last to win the class with a one-point lead over the Queenslander in the final day of competition.
That Friday, Tori was early in the draw and the pressure of leading took its toll on her nerves. A young and perhaps tired Boris saw them have a rail, possibly putting them in the jump-off.
Then the Sydney weather hailed and rained, growing heavier until a blackout halted the proceedings for a few hours. When the competition resumed clear runs came with it, though only for four rounds until the judge deemed all four faulters must return for a jump-off.
Boris hit another rail, rattled by the confusion, and finished seventh during a nervous 24 hours before they placed with equal first with the Queenslanders in the PCA National Champions.
They would like to thank Liam Atkins Farrier Service, the Clancy family for their ongoing support, Adam Basile of Reflex Kyabram, Chris and Sheryl of Mr Embroidery and Dr Liz Lester of Geelong for their recent sponsorship and to those who purchased hats, polos and donated to their Facebook fundraiser and auction.
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