Horse event crowns first winner

The Wild Card competition saw four trainers start a colt in front of two judges, with the winner set to go against the three champions.

The Wild Card trainers were Kiara Stanley, Thomas Jones and Oliver Elson from Australia and Geronimo Faggiani from Uruguay.

Mr Elson took out the Wild Card competition due to his feel, trust and connection with his colt, Woodstock Smooth Move.

He then went head-to-head with the three championship trainers.

Champion trainer Lily Santulli from Oregon has been doing colt starting since she was 13.

She originally applied for a Wild Card spot but was invited to be a Champion trainer.

For any trainers hoping to get a start in colt starting, Ms Santulli said it’s all about learning quality.

“Do your research and learn everything you can before starting,” she said.

Champion trainer Lisa Earley from Maungaturoto, New Zealand was always a “horse-mad kid” growing up and had simple advice for new horse trainers.

“Find a good mentor,” she said. “You’re going to fail, don’t worry about it.”

Champion trainer Scottie Barclay from Moorilim owns eight horses and works as a fence builder.

“I’m not nervous, I’m just going to do my own thing,” Mr Barclay said.

Once again, Mr Elson took out the competition, securing his place as first Legacy of the Horse Champion.

“History has been made,” Legacy of the Horse announced on its Facebook page.

“With an outstanding display of skill, patience, and connection, Oliver Elson has been crowned the very first Legacy of the Horse Champion 2025.

“Oliver’s journey through Legacy showcased not only his remarkable horsemanship, but also the heart and dedication that this event is all about.”

Along with his physical award, he received $500 for winning the Wild Card competition and $2500 for winning the whole competition.

But there was one more award to give out, the Horsemanship Award, taken home by Wild Card participant Mr Faggiani.

“Geronimo Faggiani was recognised for his exceptional horsemanship, beautiful training approach, and outstanding sportsmanship throughout the event,” the event’s Facebook post said.

Woodstock Paint Horses owner Trevor Mason, who supplied the colts for the event, was first approached three years ago to supply colt starting.

Today he owns more than 100 horses on his farm in Devenish.

“Most of the time a horse takes six weeks to train, these people do it in four hours,” Mr Mason said.

“You don’t know exactly what you’ve got until you get going.”