YOUNG Henry Barton and West Leake Sophistication captured the TopSpec Supreme Pretty Polly Ridden Championship at the North of England Summer Pony Show after a successful day.They took home the prize of £1000, the latest triumph in a hugely successful season which has seen West Leake Sophistication crowned first and Champion at Nottingham, Derby and Staffordshire Counties, as well as Reserve Champion at Cheshire.Seven-year-old Henry, from West Leake, near Loughborough had already ridden West Leake Sophistication to victory in both the Pretty Polly Lead Rein Show Pony Class and the Pretty Polly Championship to take part in this prestigious competition.
A home bred mare West Leake Sophistication is by Orielton Aristocrat out of West Leake Sensation and is the fourth-generation of a pony Henry’s mother, Henrietta, used to ride called Hinton Silhouette.Said Henrietta: "I have lots of fond memories of Hinton Silhouette, it feels extra special for me to see Henry become so successful with her great granddaughter, you could say it’s a real family affair!"It was a great victory, I’m very proud and special thanks to TopSpec for providing such a generous prize.”