Holly’s Story
After searching for a special horse that had both talent and temperament, Jane knew she had found the unicorn she was looking for when she met Equus Holiday, affectionately known as Holly.
Jane purchased Holly in 2021 from the Lamont family, where she was ridden by sisters Grace and Samantha, who carefully piloted her around the larger tracks to 1.20m. She was bred by Equus Australia in NSW and competed by Jess Brown until she was 5 years old. Holly is by the Warmblood stallion, Higgins, and out of Equus Lucky Bay.
Since becoming part of the family, Holly has formed a great partnership with Jane, and they are a formidable team, often seen on the showjumping circuit – currently competing in ring 2 classes.
Whilst Holly has been well educated and is an experienced jumper, managing her weight can sometimes be tricky. Compared to Jane’s thoroughbreds, who thrive on Liberty, Holly keeps good condition on all the time, from very little feed. Providing her the nutrients she needs for high performance work without her gaining excess weight has been a challenge.
As a showjumper, it is important not to have excess weight loading joints, and also important to provide adequate levels of essential proteins, vitamins and minerals to support the athletic demands of the sport. Even whilst on a low-calorie hay, and restricted pasture access, Holly can really only consume between 500g-1kg of a concentrate feed per day before she gains excess weight. Michelle Meylan, Milne’s Equine Nutrition Advisor, has been providing guidance on Holly’s diet since she was purchased. Her ‘easy-keeper’ metabolism meant she was an ideal candidate for Pegasus Lite, which she has trialled for the last 12 months, prior to the product’s launch. Pegasus Lite is a low NSC, low fat concentrate that provides essential proteins, vitamins and minerals, electrolytes, and antioxidants without adding excess calories or starch to the diet. Lite also contains branched-chain amino acids, pre and post-biotics, KER BioBloom, and KER BMC.
Pegasus Lite fits perfectly into Holly’s training routine – 400g morning and night. Her work routine includes a focus on flatwork to complement her jumping training. She has been competing well at 1m whilst also losing a few kilos. Holly is kept company by her Shetland friend, Ted, who also has weight and metabolic issues. He too has enjoyed the 12 month trial and has lost around 15kg in weight. His coat has never looked better.
Aside from competing, Holly loves bush rides and post-ride Pegasus Lite treats. The size and structure of the Lite pellets mean they keep well in riding clothes without the crumbles. Holly and Jane are looking forward to the next couple of months of shows, including Patrons Cup, Yalambi, Southside and the Horseland Young Horse Championships.
Holly and Jane in the competition ring. Photo credit: Eric Lloyd Photography