Strong Showing for MVNZ horses at Horse of the Year 2025

Rodrigo MVNZ and Laura Inkster Impressive in Olympic Cup Debut

Nine-year-old Rodrigo MVNZ and Laura Inkster had a standout week at Horse of the Year, finishing 2nd in the Norwood Gold Cup and 3rd in the Lady Rider of the Year. Stepping up to the 1.50m Olympic Cup for the first time, they held their own in a tough two-round format, finishing 10th. A strong result in their top-level debut.

Ricochet MVNZ and Oliver Croucher also impress at Olympic Cup Debut

Also making his debut at the top level was nine-year-old Ricochet MVNZ, bred in the same year as Rodrigo. He delivered a strong performance to finish 5th in the 1.50m Olympic Cup and also placed 6th in the Silver Fern Stakes (1.45m) earlier in the week. Another strong result at the top level.

Completing the trio of MVNZ horses, 10-year-old Picasso MVNZ and Carissa McCall also stepped up to the Olympic Cup, delivering a confident round. Their performance capped off an impressive showing of MVNZ horses at the top level.

FMG Young Rider of the Year
Congratulations to Orietta MVNZ and Catalina Rocco, whose steady and composed round earned them the title—coming home clear with just a single time penalty.
Taking second place was Olivia Newsom aboard Royal MVNZ, who also impressed placing 10th in the 1.45m Premier Stakes and 13th in the Lady Rider of the Year earlier in the week.

Francesca Corich van der Bas and Perseus MVNZ delivered a winning performance in the 1.30m class, coming home clear to take the top spot.