Merlin reaches tour final in Spain

Holmgrove Merlin, a 12-year-old 15.3hh pink-papered Trakehner, had taken on a new challkenge when he travelled out to take part in the famous Circuito Hippico del Sol near Cadiz in southern Spain.

Owned by Nikki Green and her father, Ian Ferguson, both of Storrington, Merlin earned himself a place on the tour because he distinguished himself so much in dressage competitions last season.

He was ridden in Spain by regular rider and trainer Debby Lush of Upper Beeding, a well-known Grand Prix rider as well as a popular Listed judge. Nikki was able to go out and see them in action for the full three weeks of competition and was joined for part of the time by her photographer husband, Mike Green, a recognised photographer of horses and book illustrator.

For full feature see Wedst Sussex Gazette April 25