Imported German stallion Donnerubin showed all the class of his famous bloodlines to win the Level 1 Horse of the Year Championship. The Oldenburg/Hanovarian stallion boasts the pedigree of Donnerhall, Rubinstein, De Niro and Wenzel I. Under the helm of Feilding lawyer Jacinda Younger, the pair headed up a strong Level 1 field, impressively scoring over 70% in both of their championship tests.

With 48 horses in the class, it was by far the largest dressage field at Horse of the Year Show and one of the most hotly contested. Younger discovered the stunning stallion through her long time trainer Ben Conn. “Donnerubin’s kind temperament makes him unique in any horse, let alone a Stallion. His level headedness and eagerness to please, makes him a truly trainable horse; a crucial factor for competitive success. “ Jacqui Thompson (Upper Hutt) with Georgio kept the pressure on all weekend, also posting scores of over 70% in the title classes.

Level 1 Horse of the Year Champion: Jacinda Younger, Donnerubin Reserve Champion: Jacqui Thompson, Georgio.