Norwegian Olympic individual Grand Prix rider Siril Helljesen was the star of the 2013 Norwegian Horse Gala, winning no less than four titles for her team. Helljesen claimed awards for her trainer, her horse, as well as the overall Horse of the Year title and for the Achievement of the year.
The Norwegian Horse Gala has been held since 2009 and for the first time the title of "Horse of the Year" did not go to a trotter or race horse but to a sport horse instead. Helljesen's Danish warmblood mare Dorina (by Don Schufro x Ragtime) claimed that prize. Three times a harnass horse has won before and once a race horse. Dorina was also named "Sport Horse of the Year".
Helljesen also received the trophy for "Achievement of the Year," as she was the first Norwegian to compete in the Dressage Olympics in 60 years. Her long-time British coach Paul Fielder was named "Trainer of the Year."
"What a night," Helljesen said overcome with emotion. "Thank you for all the lovely comments and support. I am grateful and touched. I never expected to win the Horse of the Year title," she admitted.
The Horse of the Year title is decided for 70% by public vote and for 30% by a jury.
Dressage rider Trude Hestengen and breeder Tormod Bakke Johnsen were awarded the trophy for their young horse Tobajo Pik Disney as the stallion was named "Young Horse of the Year". Show jumper Ole Kristoffer Meland became the "Rider of the Year."
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