Royal Encounter

Introduction: Royal Encounter (Duke) is an exceptional young horse with the world at his feet. He is that ‘one in a million’ thoroughbred that you only read about! At six years old, Duke has already competed successfully in eventing, dressage,and showjumping and he has proven himself to be an absolute delight to ride and handle! He is ideal for a rider seeking a no-fuss, kind and competitive horse for a variety of disciplines.

Bloodlines and racing career: Duke is by More Than Ready out of Tears of Joy. He raced 4 times - his best result being second last! Duke did get a stewards embargo… for his complete lack of speed. He was not a success, by any definition, as a racehorse - which means he has very little wear and tear and no bad habits.

Education, skills and experience:  Duke was purchased as a ‘summer project’ in 2023 and was so lovely that he stayed! He is a pleasure to ride - he always aims to please, doesn’t rush and he isn’t lazy. Duke is a willing and reliable horse who is ridden in a snaffle in all disciplines. 

On the flat, he produces a very sweet prelim level dressage test. He has a sound, basic education in line with his age and collects when ridden correctly. 

Duke has competed successfully from 60 to 80cm over the last two years and is training 95. He is honest and brave - he willingly jumps anything from planks to brick walls and water. Duke is tolerant of a ‘miss’ and a rider who lacks the perfect eye for a distance. He has scope, is adjustable and responsive. Duke often places at shows and events - and in fact would have won at least one of them, had his rider used a cross country watch!

General demeanor under saddle:  Duke is as honest as the day is long, a loveable clown who will always make you laugh. He's the springer spaniel of the horse world, he has a busy mind that wants to be occupied. With the right person who's willing to put the time & effort in, Duke could be anything.

Duke is a lovely horse to ride. He has a fun, eager to please personality and always tries his best. Duke could be described as a ‘parent’s dream horse’ with his willing nature and heart of gold. 

Duke does not have any vices and is not worried by farm life, trucks, tractors, mowers, cattle and dogs. He is willing and happy to ride out on his own, even on trails and roads. At his first few events in 2024, he would occasionally look at something and wiggle slightly away from it - that is the extent of his quirks!

Current workload/ fitness: Duke is ridden three times a week and is currently competing. He does not need regular riding to be safe and is safe to hop straight on, after a spell.

Handling and general behaviour: Duke is easy to catch, saddle, groom, wash, travel (load, float, unload), shoe, and handle for veterinary or dental care. Duke is a fuss free bloke who takes everything in his stride. Like most horses, he will occasionally do a single kick out when travelling - this happens approximately once every 5 trips. 

Feeding and management: Duke is an easy doer, tough and easy care - not your typical thoroughbred. He is currently fed fibre pellets, chaff and hay. He is not on any supplements other than electrolytes if needed. Duke can be kept in a herd situation or on his own, with other horses in sight. 

Medical history: Duke’s very limited racing career means that he has little wear and tear and doesn’t have any medical issues affecting his performance. He is up to date with dental and vaccinations. Duke’s owners are happy for potential buyers to do a full vetting.

Rider Suitability: Duke has a heart of gold and will continue to thrive with someone who is a confident and balanced novice to intermediate rider and appreciates his brave, fun nature and versatility. He is not, however, a beginner’s ride or suitable for a nervous person who is ‘getting back into riding’. Duke is amazing but he is still a young OTT.

Reason for sale:  Duke is very reluctantly for sale as his rider works full time and realistically can’t keep three horses in work. He is the most saleable and that is the reason he is on the market, as opposed to either of the others. Duke is very much loved and only for sale to the best of homes.