Kilconnell Sam
Sam arrived in Denmark in 2005 from Ireland as a 5 year old pony with only limited competitive experience.

Bought well in advance for Rikke he was on loan to Josephine Toftdahl Bagge, one of Rikke's clubmates, until August 2007. During this period they were selected for the Europeans in 2006 & 2007 and in their last show won the national championship for 148cm ponies.

Target for 2008 was simple - Rikke and Sam to the Europeans. A detailed competition plan for 2008 was agreed and followed and show by show their self confidence grew and the results started to come in the big classes.

Just 4 days after winning the Grand Prix in Ikast they were in Wierden, probably the toughest CSIOP show on the calendar. Another good show an selection for the Nordic Championships was a reality.

Clear rounds in the team competition contributed to Denmark winning and 5th place individually was a fine result and secured selection for the Europeans.

Best placed Danish rider after the 1st round but disppointing rounds in the team rounds and the dream of the final was gone. Great experience and a super weekend in Switzerland as well as being part of the team who gave the best ever result for Denmark until the fantastic gold performance in 2009.

At the start of 2009 Rikke was totally focused on her horses and to assist in this development it was decided to use Sam as a junior horse from February 2009.

For Rikke and Sam the pony adventure was over. It had been a great time after 3 European Championships - Sam was a fantastic pony!