Shane Breen wins British Speed Classic at Hickstead

Ireland’s Shane Breen has won the British Speed Classic at Hickstead with Can Ya Makan.

Speed freaks

Living up to the competition’s name the riders flew around Hickstead’s international arena and there was just over half a second between the top three.

William Whitaker was second with Lammy Beach, ahead of Nigel Coupe and Jubille II in third.

Shane has enjoyed great success at Hickstead with the 12-year-old gelding, and the pair came third in last month’s Al Shira’aa Derby and also won the Bunn Leisure Derby Trial.

‘So versatile’

“A speed class like this inspires him and keeps him keen,” said Shane. “I don’t use him as a speed horse as such – he jumps Derbies, Grands Prix, teams – I love him because he’s so versatile.

“He’s a very good horse to have in the stable. Next year I think he’s got a great chance in the Al Shira’aa Derby and in the King George – he’s so useful.”

Watch the Royal International Horse Show on Sky 184 or Horse & Country. You can also view the show via Amazon Video, Roku and Virgin TV.

Here’s what’s on, when:

RIHS 2018: Queen Elizabeth Cup Sunday 5 August 8pm

RIHS 2018: British Speed Classic Wednesday 8 August 7pm

RIHS 2018: Supreme Ridden Championship Sunday 12 August at 7.30pm