Contenda Progeny in Profile: KL Columbus

Third in 6yo Young Event Horse class at Sydney 3DE 

Name: KL Columbus

Stable name: Calvin

Breeding: Contenda (imp) x Kirra Lea Hill (Stirling Sprite)

Breeder: Kerrie and Kirsten Bailey

Age: 6 years old

Height: 16.1hh

Owner: Elizabeth lowery

Rider: Elizabeth Lowery

Discipline/s: Eventing, showjumping and dressage

Justine Donohoe interviewed Elizabeth Lowery, winner of the 2015 CCI3* at Sydney International Horse trials about her up and coming young event horse.

Why did you decide to breed Columbus all those years ago?

My Aunt, Kerrie Bailey had a very good mare by Sterling Sprite called Lucy. Lucy had just recovered from an injury when Equine Influenza hit Sydney causing the entire horse industry to come to a standstill. Lucy was a quality mare so we thought it would be a good time to put her in foal.

What have been your highlights with Columbus to date?

In terms of competition, it would be placing 3rd in the 6yo Young Event horse at Sydney International Horse Trials earlier this year. He placed 2nd in the dressage phase and the dressage judge Carolyn Lieutenant said such lovely things about him.

​However, it is always exciting with a young horse, particularly one that you've bred, when they achieve milestones. Things they do for the first time such as going on the truck, being under saddle, having your first ride, etc. These are the day to day things that make riding exciting.

​Were do you see yourself and Columbus going in the future?

He's such a talented horse that he could succeed in either eventing, showjumping or dressage. However my passion lies with eventing so hopefully we'll keep progressing in this discipline. I have no doubt that he would be successful in any field.

What do you feel are Columbus's best qualities?

His stand out quality would have to be his quiet temperament. He's also very trainable which has made reaching those milestones that much easier.

What feedback have you received from coaches about Columbus?

I've had very positive feedback from all coaches, with each suggesting that he could excel in any single discipline.When I took him to Janice Usherwood and she said he should be doing straight dressage and when I took him to Jenny Shepherd and she said he should be doing straight show jumping! 

What do you like best about riding a homebred purpose bred horse?

Having bred them yourself there's always that extra emotional attachment as you've seen them grow and develop.

Would you like more information about how to breed your own all round superstar? Contact Justine at Wimborne Park Warmblood Stud now wimborneparkstud.com.au