The prestigious Garryowen Equestrienne Turnout took place Friday morning at the Melbourne Royal Show, with Stephanie Barrington riding to another victory aboard Global PPS.
The combination won the class in 2024, while Steph also claimed the title in 2011 at the age of 20 aboard a Thoroughbred named LA.
Now owned by Sue Thompson, Global PPS was piloted by Steph in this year’s Garryowen. First into a very wet arena, the pair impressed the judges and secured the ultimate prize for a second time.
Purchased by Greg Mickan and Terry Van Heythuysen as a yearling from Parnell Park, Global PPS is by well-known dressage sire Fürstenball out of a mare named PPS World On Ice (Weltmeyer x Thoroughbred). Steph was offered the opportunity to purchase ‘Harry’ as a yearling, and he spent his first few years growing up at Romsey Park, where Greg and Terry started his education. Steph and Harry made their Melbourne Royal debut in 2023 before taking home the coveted Garryowen Perpetual Trophy the following year.
Sirrah Regal Whispers (Royalwood Boy Soprano x Atlas Whillow) placed second in this year’s Garryowen for owner Rachel Monaghan and rider Margot Haynes. In a remarkable result, first and second place were tied on scores, with Steph and Global PPS awarded the win on a countback. Kate Halliday was third with her own Regal Quest (Quarterback x Regal Rendezvous).
Hannah Fischer was named Best First Year Garryowen Competitor with Hollands Bend Secret Empress (Secret x Hollands Bend First Symphony), while the Garryowen McKinnon Medal was awarded to Margot Haynes and Sirrah Regal Whispers.
Hannah Fischer and Hollands Bend Secret Empress also enjoyed success in the Esquire Equestrienne Turnout, finishing ahead of Global PPS, ridden by owner Sue Thompson.
The Col. A.V. Pope Cup Final, presented by Racing Victoria Off The Track, was awarded to Kate Halliday and Lyriq, while Josh Clarke and SLM Fascination were named runners-up.
Full results from the Horses in Action Competition at Melbourne Royal can be found here.
