Equestrianism: John sets Whitaker standard

JOHN WHITAKER had hoped to win yesterday's Everest Championship, on the second day of the Royal Show, without recourse to a jump-off. First to go on Henderson Grannusch, he had the only clear round until the last three riders were also faultless.

These included his brother, Michael, and sister-in-law, Veronique. After John had made some finely judged turns to go fast and clear in the jump-off, he was able to sit back and watch the opposition peter out.

Martin Lucas eventually finished second with four faults on Senator Akrobat. Veronique was third with 12 faults on Henderson Fol Amour and her husband, Michael, finished fourth on Alonso.

Grannusch had been sidelined since competing early last month at Bramham, where he sustained an injury through puncturing his elbow with the stud of a hind shoe. He was not lame, but plans to take the horse to Germany, for last week's big international show in Aachen, had to be abandoned.

Now obviously back on form, Grannusch will be Whitaker's mount for today's Henderson National Championship, which Veronique won last year from her husband.

Tim Stockdale had a swift clear round on Santas Echo to win the Pet Plan Speed Competition by a 3.57sec margin over Tina Cassan on Asdic Archie.

Results, Sport in Short, page 31