The Thoroughbred in Equestrian Sport (TiES) continues to highlight the extraordinary second careers of New Zealand’s off‑the‑track Thoroughbreds — and few horses embody that spirit more completely than Grassendale Enzo, this season’s TiES Jumping Accumulator Series Champion.

Ridden by young talent Sofia Williams, Enzo’s journey has been one of resilience, maturity, and undeniable Thoroughbred heart. From junior classes to Grand Prix victories, from a serious paddock accident to a triumphant return, their partnership has become one of the most inspiring stories of the season.

A Partnership Built Over Time

Sofia first began competing Enzo at the end of the 2022/23 season, stepping into her first full junior season with him the following year. Results were modest — one junior win at Waipukurau and regular placings around fifth — while her mum, who was still riding Enzo at the time, was winning Pro‑Ams and speed classes on the same horse.

“Enzo clearly favoured mum over me!” Sofia laughs. But the 2024/25 season brought a shift. Moving into Young Riders, Sofia and Enzo began to click at bigger heights, picking up two wins and gaining valuable mileage — until a serious injury halted everything.

The Accident That Changed Everything

In January 2025, just as their Young Rider campaign was hitting its stride, Enzo caught his left front foot in a fence, slicing off the inside of his heel.

“It was the day we were meant to leave for our summer holiday — perfect timing on his behalf!” Sofia jokes.

Enzo was immediately sent to Little Avondale Stud, where her uncle Sam Williams and the resident vets oversaw his care. What followed was nine months of slow, frustrating rehabilitation, made harder by the uncertainty of whether he would ever return to higher‑level jumping.

“Every time I asked mum if he’d be okay, she said yes without a doubt,” Sofia says. But setbacks continued — including a float accident that left Enzo upside down in the bars, scraped and bruised, and requiring further rest.

Finally, in September, Enzo came back into work. The focus was simple: fitness, muscle, and soundness. And then, in true Enzo fashion, he won his very first class back — the Young Rider at Feilding Spring Show.

“He didn’t miss a beat.”

A Breakthrough Season

This season has been a revelation. Sofia credits maturity — both hers and Enzo’s — for their leap forward.

“We just click so well now. After such a long break, we were desperate to prove ourselves again at a higher level.”  A pre‑season lesson with coach Brooke Edgecombe confirmed it: Enzo was back, and better than ever.  Their standout moments include:

  • Their first Grand Prix win, just one week after their GP debut — with family and friends cheering ringside.
  • A clear round and second place in their first Premier League at North Island SJ Champs — the biggest track either had ever jumped.

“He was feeding off my adrenaline and excitement. It was unforgettable.”

Sofia won the Jumping Young Person of the Year title at the ESNZ HOF awards after her phenomenal season.  It is no surprise that she was also nominated for Junior Sportswoman of the Year, by her local area. Competing against some of the best riders and horses in NZ, she showed younger riders watching, that dreams can come true.

Winning the TiES Jumping Accumulator Series

For Sofia and her family, the TiES win means more than a title.

“Enzo proved that Thoroughbreds can still be super competitive at the top level, even though they’re not bred for it.”  His Thoroughbred traits shine in the ring:

  • Naturally fast pace
  • Forgiving, kind nature
  • Incredible heart
  • Quick thinking
  • Genuine desire to please

“He saves me when I get it wrong and forgets about it instantly. He did the same for mum.”  They weren’t aiming for the series — but consistent results carried them to the top. This is Enzo’s second TiES Jumping Series win, a testament to his talent and versatility.

Looking Ahead: Big Dreams and Bigger Classes

Sofia’s goals for next season are ambitious:

  • Compete in her first World Cup class once she is age‑eligible in January
  • Aim for a top‑three placing
  • Chase more Premier League placings — and maybe a win
  • Explore opportunities to compete overseas

“I’m so excited to see what else we can achieve on the NZ stage — and maybe abroad.”

The Enzo We Don’t See in the Ring

At home, Enzo is a character.

“He’s the most playful horse in the paddock. He and his best mate Roy expend so much energy playing — then he sleeps for hours.”  He’s also famously cuddly.

“He’ll lower his head into your arms for a cuddle and lick your face for kisses.”  Despite being “not a big foodie,” he is adored for his gentle, affectionate nature.

Why TiES Matters

Sofia believes TiES plays a crucial role in showcasing the versatility of Thoroughbreds across jumping, dressage, and eventing.

“Their trainability and attitude is second to none. Most will excel at something outside of racing because of their genuine natures.”

Her advice to riders considering a Thoroughbred?

“Definitely give it a go. Most of them can jump — and every now and then you’ll get a freak like Enzo!”

A Thoroughbred With Heart

Enzo was “way too slow to race,” but he has found his calling in the showjumping ring. His story — from paddock accident to Premier League podiums — is a powerful reminder of the heart, resilience, and talent that Thoroughbreds bring to sport.

“He always gives me his best and truly just wants to please.”  And with another Reliable Man youngster now in the family, Sofia sees the same traits emerging again.

“They just keep trying for you. They pick things up so quickly. They love being loved.”

Congratulations to Sofia Williams and Grassendale Enzo — your 2025/26 TiES Jumping Accumulator Champions.

A partnership built on trust, talent, and Thoroughbred heart.