To the music of Game of Thrones, Moruya dressage rider Isabella Wall and a fabulous black Friesian made a dramatic impression at the recent Australian Youth Dressage Championships.
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Wall and her neighbour's stallion, Hilwert L., had a hill to climb when he was brought back into work after more than four years in the paddock.
Qualifying for the championships in a short time was achievement enough, and a seventh place nationally was no disgrace.
Wall had worked hard to condition him in between studying veterinary science at Charles Sturt University.
Even before the event, Wall and "Hilly" were turning heads.
So much so, that artist Keedah Throssell was inspired to create an artwork called The Blonde and the Black, named for the rider's blonde locks and the striking colouring of her mount.
The work will hang in The Bas gallery at Moruya from 6pm on Friday, July 12.
Proud mum Emma Lipscombe thanked Eurobodalla Shire and Canberra coaches and paid tribute to her daughter's first riding mentor and coach, Hetty Munda.
"If it hadn't have been for her supporting Bella and her passion so much, none of this would have been possible," she said.
She said the stallion "was honest and keen" in the test.
"Coming back into work after a 4 to 5 year hiatus is hard," she said.
"(She) loves Game of Thrones, so to create a test with all the required moves and to be able to ride a big black Friesian stallion in an indoor arena to that sound track was a dream.
"She knows there is always something to work on, like collection, flexion, bend etc but the aim was to have a beautiful free forward ride and enjoy.
"They did and they had fun."
Ms Lipscombe thanked Hilwert's owners, Debra Strachan and Ray Whigham, from The Darkside Friesian Warmblood stud, Moruya, "for entrusting this gorgeous man to Bella".
"Whether they are galloping in the paddock or trying to master the moves, it's just been lovely to watch," she said.
In testament to their bond, Wall opted to ride her huge friend in a more gentle snaffle bridle, rather than a double.