SPORTS horse enthusiasts from across the country flocked to Kirk Hammerton at the weekend for a behind-the-scenes tour of Gornall Equestrian – one of the top training facilities in Europe and home to international showjumper Jamie Gornall and his collection of competition and breeding stallions.

More than a hundred visitors took their seats at the yard’s indoor arena to watch as Jamie introduced some of his elite showjumping horses, including stallions Baloutelli, Count Codex, Carsten and Christian 25.

The crowds also met Christian’s foal.

The open day featured presentations from vet and equine reproductive specialist James Crabtree from Equine Reproductive Services and Gornall Equestrian’s nutritional partner, Connolly’s Red Mills, as well as tours of the yard.

“We were absolutely thrilled with the day – it certainly surpassed all our expectations,” said Jamie. “We had some really interesting conversations, which I am sure we will continue over the coming months.”

Jill Hewitt, from nearby Whixley, was visiting the yard with a group of York & Ainsty North Pony Club members. “I loved the facts and educational aspects of the presentations, and found the talk on embryo transfer extremely useful,” she said.

“And as for that beautiful foal, what more can I say other than he was absolutely gorgeous?”

Allison Tasker, from Holmfirth, West Yorkshire came on a fact-finding mission to discover more about Gornall’s breeding potential for her mare. “I have really enjoyed looking at which stallions we could put her with,” she said.

For further information visit gornallequestrian.com.