Match My Speed | Busy Benny on the Up!

Match My Speed is a 2012 gelding by My Atacana. Bred by Redwood Park in Western Australia, Match My Speed began his racing career in 2015. After two trials with David Harrison and one trial with Brendon Fitzgerald, Match My Speed was retired from racing late in 2015, after showing no desire to race competitively.

Match My Speed was picked up by Tammy and Isla Bolton in 2022 after seeing footage of the gelding jumping with Madi Gielen, who was selling him on for his previous owner, Lucy Mallen. Despite not being in the market for a new horse, “Benny” showed such a natural talent over fences that Isla could not resist having a look. After her second ride, despite feeling nervous and unsure, Isla’s coach, Pippa Barber, insisted that the Bolton’s take a chance on Benny. Isla expressed how glad she is for that decision and how incredible the ride has been onboard Benny so far.

Match My Speed is described as a cool and chilled guy, with an aloof nature. He has a natural athleticism that he enjoys expressing within the paddock with some impressive bucks and handstands. Under saddle however, Benny is a true gentleman and tries his heart out.

“Coming off a thirteen-three hands high pony, Benny has been the best teacher and introduction to riding bigger horses,” said Isla.

Isla described Benny as a soft and responsive ride at first, which made their transition smoother; Although, It did take six-months before she became familiar with Benny’s impressive jumping style. Currently, Isla and Benny are focused upon their speed and angles, as although Benny may have been bred for speed, he prefers to ensure he clears rounds safely.

Isla and Benny are current members of the Junior Equestrian Development Squad and have been invited to become squad members of Next Generation for Show Jumping. They have also been selected to represent WA at Interschool Nationals after winning the Intermediate Senior Show Jumping Championship at Interschools and will be competing at the Pony Club National Championships in October. Isla and Benny – competed as Bolton Park Benny – won their first rug at the Bussleton Winter Show Jumping Festival for the Best Performed Off the Track Horse in Arena One.

“Our biggest highlight so far was being invited to be a member of team OTTWA at the inaugural Perth Show Jumping Leagues first event. It was the best experience and so much fun. Benny handled the atmosphere amazingly well!” Isla expressed fondly.

Isla and Benny have a busy season planned for the second half of the year, with Perth Royal Show, Pony Club Nationals, Patrons Cup and State Show Jumping Championships written on their calendar. Isla aims to tackle the 1.15m Junior Series at State Show Jumping Championships, and long term, would love to take Benny over-east to the TSHA National Titles and Australian Show Jumping Championships in the future.

OTTWA wish Isla and Benny all the best for their future adventures together!