29/08/2026
Exciting to have bred this lovely horse with Darren. Fingers crossed for some fun ahead……..
@
Darren Mattia Makes a Winning Return as Ophelia Claims British Hanoverian Supreme Championship
Darren Mattia made a very successful return to the British Hanoverian Annual Show in 2026, with his three-year-old mare Ophelia taking three major titles during the day.
Ophelia (Opoque x Donnerbrog), bred and owned by Darren Mattia and Julie Deverill, started the day in the Mare Performance Test, where she put in an outstanding performance. Test rider Lucinda Elliott awarded her a 10, an exceptional score and one rarely seen in a Mare Performance Test. Ophelia went on to be crowned the 2026 Mare Performance Test Champion.
Her success continued in the Young Horse Championship, which she also won, before going forward to the Supreme Championship later in the day.
Hannoveraner Verband International Judge Bo Eitenmueller had no hesitation in his final decision, naming Ophelia Supreme Champion of the 2026 British Hanoverian Annual Show and completing a memorable return to the show for Darren.
Reserve Supreme Champion was Charlotte Nash’s Miranda, who also had a very successful day. Miranda finished Reserve Mare Performance Test Champion before going on to take the Mare Championship. She was ridden and presented by Charlotte Dicker of Catherston Stud.
The quality continued in the foal classes, with Sean White’s striking filly Viva La Vida (Viva Vitalis x Totilas) taking the 2026 Foal Championship.
The Annual Show also saw three new stallions successfully licensed, with Fire Kracka (Fidertanz x Diamond Hit), owned by Claire Wyatt, taking the title of Champion Stallion. Bred by Philipp von Thaden, Fire Kracka was beautifully ridden and presented by Ruby Hughes and made a particularly impressive picture throughout the licensing.
With stallion licensing, mare performance testing, foal and young horse classes and the championships all taking place, the Annual Show brought together British Hanoverians of all ages and, just as importantly, provided an opportunity for breeders, owners and members to come together.
For Darren Mattia, Julie Deverill and Ophelia, however, it was certainly a day to remember, with the Mare Performance Test Championship, Young Horse Championship and Supreme Championship all heading home with the three-year-old mare.
Congratulations Darren Mattia and Julie Deverill 🥳
Photograph copyright tanjadavisphotography
Annual show sponsored by Elite Stallions, Animal Genetics and Saracen Horse Feeds
Hannoveraner International Hannoveraner Verband e.V.
