‘He makes the impossible possible’ 14.2hh overcomes kissing spines and mystery illness to qualify for Badminton grassroots

A pony known as the “comeback king” – and “a walking vet’s bill” – has beaten kissing spines and a serious illness to qualify for the LeMieux Grassroots Championships at Mars Badminton Horse Trials, at his first attempt.

Lauren Wiggins thought she would have to let her 14.2hh Irish pony Cookie Clover go, early last year, as vets did not know what had made him so ill. Hoping just to have him back to retire him, she brought him home – but he returned to competition in style about 12 months ago.