Andrew Nicholson: It’s good to be a gangsta

New Zealand eventer Andrew Nicholson has so many **** horses, he had to kick one off his plate. Britain’s Oliver Townsend got the ride on Armada, a 13-year-old gelding owned by Paul Ridgeon.

“Armada is a ‘true four-star horse’ who has already completed seven four-star events in his career and really should go to Badminton,” said Andrew told Horse and Hound. “I just can’t guarantee I can ride him there because of my other horses. If anyone can develop a good partnership with him, it is Oliver. It is in all our interests that he goes well.”

Armada’s top-shelf jumping ability is marred only slightly by an erratic dressage record. His best finishes with Andrew include an 8th at Burghley in ’08 and 10th at Luhmuhlen in ’10 and ’11. Andrew has produced the horse throughout its career.

Andrew’s string includes 2011 four-star performers Nereo, Avebury, Mr. Cruise Control, Calico Joe and Shady Grey.

[Horse & Hound]

Photo: Samantha L. Clark, courtesy of EN