Robert Whitaker made history by becoming the fourth member of the Whitaker family to win the prestigious Al Shira’aa Hickstead Derby on 22 June, riding the 19-year-old horse Gentlemen VH Veldhof. After several attempts and near misses, Robert finally secured victory in a thrilling jump-off, finishing ahead of William Whitaker on Flamboyant III and Sammie Jo Coffin on Chaccomo Blue. Despite strong competition, including last year’s winners William Funnell and Dublon who did not make the jump-off, Robert’s win was a significant family achievement, with Michael Whitaker also competing but unfortunately unseated during the event.

In a separate heartwarming incident at the Lincolnshire County Show, farrier and breeder Matthew Strawson stepped in to lead a stranger’s horse after the owner, Gillian Black, fainted due to the heat. Strawson not only took care of the horse, Fuerty Supremacy, but also won the in-hand class with it, demonstrating remarkable kindness and sportsmanship. With temperatures soaring, the article also highlights advice from the British Grooms Association on safely traveling horses in hot weather, emphasizing early morning or evening travel, hydration, and preparedness for emergencies.