Posted: 19th May 2016 | Back to news feed
International Eventing duo Kevin McNab and Emma Dougall have competed up to 4* level including the prestigious events Burghley, Badminton, Luhmuhlen, Pau and Adelaide. Here we talk to the couple about what they look for when searching for the perfect event horse.
What do you look for when buying an event horse?
We both find temperament and athleticism is extremely important for success in our sport. It is not necessarily the fanciest horse that is going to get you to the top but the horse that has enough natural ability and allows you to train it.
Where do you source your horses?
We source our horses from anywhere really. We have lots of contacts who know we are always looking for talented youngsters. For a horse that shows exceptional ability we are happy to travel the distance.
What temperament do you look for and why?
We also look for a horse which demonstrates an attitude of wanting to do the job. They need to have a trainable attitude and be on your side, not against you. We think this is important when progressing up the levels. As a rider you need them to want to jump for you and help you out when things get a bit difficult.
At what age do you like to buy your horses and why?
We like purchasing horses from a young age. On the whole when you look at the top horses competing, they have usually been produced by the rider from their early ridden careers. A good partnership is key. It can be more difficult to form this with an older horse that is used to another rider’s ways and methods.
Would you compromise anywhere?
Height is an area where we would comprise. Emma’s first top level horse was 15.3hh compared to her next which stood at 17.1hh. It really depends on the horse’s talents. 16.1/2hh is our preferred height if we could have the choice.
Do you know instantly if they are the right horse for you or does it take time?
As a rider we believe that you will have an idea straight away if the horse is your type or not, however it does take time to be sure what you really have.
Is there a particular breed you look for and why?
Looking for an upper level event horse our ideal mix would be ¾ TB for the athleticism and stamina. Unless you can find an exceptional full TB you need something in the breeding to bring the movement and power to the equation. This can come from a lot of different breeds/places.
We can’t ask you to pick a favourite that would be mean. But which horse did you immediately know was the horse for you and why?
I have a soft spot for Belcam Bear. He has just the right combination of character and talent. He is a beautiful horse to ride on the flat and has an attitude of always wanting to please. I love my horses to enjoy their routine and have a friendship with them. This is definitely the case with Bear. Emma remembers the day she picked Bear up as a three-year-old. He had never seen or been on a trailer before so he was led on with a loaf of bread (Owners owned bakeries). These antics have remained definitely remained!
Out of all the horses you have now, which one has surprised you the most and why?
Fernhill Tabasco. When he came from Ireland he was extremely nervous around people. He was super sharp to ride and producing him early on was very slow because of this. But looking at him now, you would never tell. He is enormously affectionate, loves a good cuddle and genuinely loves his life. He rides beautifully and we couldn’t be happier with the way he is going. He is a very exciting horse.
For information visit www.mcnabdougall.com
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