Laura Tomlinson's Triumph With Forest Hill Ignites British Dressage Ex

The Rise of Laura Tomlinson in Equestrian Sports

Laura Tomlinson, a name synonymous with British dressage excellence, has once again captured the spotlight. Her recent triumphs with Forest Hill, a home-bred stallion, at the 2024 Horse of the Year Show, mark a pivotal moment in her illustrious career. But what makes this victory so significant, and what does it say about Tomlinson's future in equestrian sports?

Laura Tomlinson's Journey and Achievements

The story of Laura Tomlinson and Forest Hill is an inspiring one. Forest Hill, sired by Furstenlook and out of a mare by United, has become a standout in the Dressage Future Elite Championship. With a stunning samba-style freestyle performance, the pair managed a score of 75.833% at the 2024 HOYS. Such a performance is not only a testament to Tomlinson's dedication but also highlights Forest Hill's exceptional capabilities. David Trott, one of the judges, praised Forest Hill's performance, emphasizing the horse's expressive movement and suppleness. His ability to stay perfectly on beat and execute complex half-passes made him a favorite among judges and spectators alike. With sayings like, "Forest Hill looks like he has a big future," one can understand why there’s such excitement surrounding this eight-year-old gelding.

The Significance of Home-Bred Success

Tomlinson’s success with Forest Hill carries a special meaning; he is a home-bred horse. There's a unique pride and satisfaction that stems from nurturing a horse from birth to top-level competition, and this victory underscores the family's long-standing commitment to breeding excellence. She mentioned that her father would be proud to witness the progress of horses born and bred under his watchful eye. This personal connection deepens the victory's significance and provides an emotional backdrop to the technical skill and precision showcased during the event.

The Dressage Future Elite Championship: A Platform for Rising Stars

Since 2013, the Dressage Future Elite Championship has been a venerable stage for young horses aged eight to ten. In 2024, the competition featured eight talented combinations. Andrew Gould and Active Solaris took second with a score of 74.458%, while Sarah Higgins and Samuel secured the third spot with a commendable 74.167%. Such competitions are crucial for spotting future stars and providing them with the experience they need. They also serve as rigorous testing grounds for horses and riders, demanding nothing less than excellence.

Laura's Thoughts on Stewardship and Sportsmanship

Laura Tomlinson is an advocate for good sportsmanship and effective stewardship in the equestrian world. Her appreciation for the organized nature of the National Championships reflects her belief in the importance of structured and well-managed competitive environments. This also includes the competent handling of exercise arenas, which she acknowledges can sometimes operate in "grey areas," especially when dealing with difficult horses. These thoughts resonate with her approach to training and competition—disciplined yet flexible, respectful yet relentlessly passionate.

What's Next for Laura Tomlinson and Forest Hill?

Looking forward, Tomlinson intends to use the upcoming winter to consolidate her progress. Her eyes are set on an exciting 2025 season, with plans to gradually advance Forest Hill to Intermediate II and potentially to Grand Prix challenges by next year. The journey of Laura Tomlinson and Forest Hill isn’t just about medals and accolades. It's about the passion for the sport, the dedication to excellence, and the bond between a rider and her horse. As she continues to groom young talent in her yard, one can only anticipate more remarkable achievements on the horizon.

Conclusion

Laura Tomlinson's recent victories highlight her as a pillar of British dressage and an inspirational figure in modern equestrian sports. With her deep commitment to breeding and training excellence, her successes with Forest Hill serve as the latest chapter in a career filled with remarkable achievements. As Laura and her talented steeds move forward, they remain poised to make significant contributions to the sport. After all, in Laura Tomlinson’s world, it’s not just about winning—it's about the journey, the growth, and the shared triumphs along the way. For further insights into the world of Laura Tomlinson and her equestrian ventures, visit [Horse & Hound](https://www.horseandhound.co.uk) for more stories and updates from the equestrian sphere. Sources: - Laura Tomlinson: ‘I couldn’t have been prouder – although I did make a faux pas’, Horse & Hound. - Laura Tomlinson and Forest Hill Shine at the 2024 Horse of the Year Show