Radway All Talk
B.S.P.S. Supreme Blue Riband Champion 2005
By Tally Kapadia
Photograph by Real Time Imaging

The moment I saw Radway All Talk (BJ) at our producer, Gill Thompson’s. I knew he was something special. BJ is not easy to ride.  He is really cheeky but you can’t help but love him.

At the Championships, I was delighted to get through to phase 2 of the Blue Riband despite the mud. I will never forget my emotions during the placings.  When it got down to the last two, my legs were shaking.  When I wasn’t called second I went into shock.  I have never won anything as big as the Blue Riband and I never expected it.

I worried about the evening performance but everyone kept telling me BJ would be fine. I didn’t believe them until the moment we entered the arena. I had to put my faith in him.  BJ could feel that I was nervous but he didn’t take advantage.  He gave me the ride of my life. We were last to do our show and as I walked back into line Nicky gave me the thumbs up and shouted my marks to me – “19, 19 and 19!”  Everyone was screaming and my heart skipped several beats. I put my hand over my mouth, I was so shocked.

When we stepped back into the arena for the Supreme Blue Riband, it felt as if time had stopped. BJ went so beautifully.  I never even thought about going Supreme because every pony in there was stunning.  On the lap of honour, I don’t think I breathed at all, we just floated.

I will never every forget that night.  Thank you to the B.S.P.S. for the best show ever, to everyone on Gill’s team both at home and at the Champs, especially Nicky Franks. Thanks to the Jagos and to all my family.  Special thanks to Gill; you are the most amazing producer and I can’t thank you enough for all your hard work. Finally, BJ thank you so much. You are my superstar and although I don’t always show it, I do love you.