DORSET’S Mary-Anne Hart was the clear winner in the Equissage Elementary Res-tricted Music Freestyle Cham-pionship at the NAF Five Star Winter Dressage Champion-ships at Hartpury Arena in Gloucester.

Riding Lorna Davis’ chestnut mare Donna Charisma, Hart scored 76.39 per cent in the electric atmosphere of the Hartpury Arena to claim the coveted national championship title.

A delighted Hart, from Wimborne, said: “I was really nervous before I went in. She wasn’t easy to warm up and I literally ‘galloped’ her round to expel some energy.

“I just took a deep breath as I went in, though I’d ride a forward test as she was on her toes and just do the best I could. I can honestly say I enjoyed it once I was going as it’s such a lovely atmosphere here.”

Hart and Davis took the brave decision to change the programme of movements and music for the championships and it was only finally ready just three days previous.

The latter said: “We owe a huge amount of thanks to Julie at Equivisions who has really helped us put new, upbeat music together using jazz and funk tunes. Also, Jackie Stolper has been an inspiration with the layout of the test. I’m so pleased our gamble has paid off.”

Donna Charisma is very much a pet at home with Davis, who gave up riding after an injury to her back.

“I brought her directly from Germany following a friend’s advice as she didn’t grow big enough,” added Davis.

“She knew I had a passion for chestnut mares – especially if they have great spirit. Mary-Anne has built up a great partnership with her and I get enormous pleasure watching them compete.”