
CONCHItA VAN DE HELLE
Some horses just find their way to the right people at the right time, and Conchita Van De Helle known to those nearest and dearest as Connie, is one such horse with a very special story. A horse that was never advertised, yet somehow ended up exactly where she was meant to be.
Bred by Stoeterij Van de Helle in Belgium, Connie arrived in Australia around 2020. For the breeding enthusiasts, Connie is by Colman (a standout performance stallion, known for his power, elasticity, and jumping talent), out of Piola (by Quinar, who carries the legendary Quidam de Revel bloodlines). A serious pedigree for the sport!
She was first ridden by Izabella Stone, before Kate Hinschen took the reins in 2022, guiding her into the bigger classes.
Through it all, she picked up a nickname that stuck—"Con-eye", thanks to Kate!
So, how did she end up with Sam Overton?
As many good things do these days, it all started with an Instagram story. Yep, that’s right! Sam and Carly weren’t actively searching for a horse, but when they saw a clip of Connie with Kate, something just clicked.
Sam recalls, “We were just quietly looking for a potential GP horse, to take the pressure off Ed (Sam’s other highly successful Grand Prix horse Oaks Cassanova)”. Carly saw Kate’s Instagram story and showed me…. we loved the look of her, and it just felt right from the start.”
The connection between the Overtons and Kate goes back years. Kate, via another long time friend Amber Fuller had previously gifted Sam and Carly the incredible CD Visage (Dommy).
Dear Ol’ Dommy was nearing the end of his competition career and needed a lot of TLC, which he received in spades. In return for the love and care, the Overtons had an incredible few years filled with joy and success. Dommy took both of their daughters (Grace and Hannah) to the Australian Junior Titles, and Grace to her first Young Rider classes.
“We have been forever grateful for Dommy, and now with Connie, it feels like another chapter in this journey—another way to say thank you, and to share the joy of a wonderful horse again.”
Connie is a family favourite at Overton Showjumping loving life (and food!) she is always stabled next to her mate Cha Cha Blue (Chaz). The team has yet to see her pin her ears back—now that’s a temperament to admire! Sam’s favourite thing to say about Connie “Isn’t she beautiful?"
Recent highlights:
✅ Clear round & placing in the top teams at Magic Millions 2025 and 2024
✅ Placings at Larapinta, DJWTS, Shepparton, Waratah and Tamworth WC Shows
✅ Debut World Cup round in 2024 with Sam - placing 7th at Waratah World Cup
✅ 2024 family highlight was when Carly (Connie’s "mum") got a few rides in when Sam was out broken—and even brought home some ribbons!
Backed by the generous support of Emcee Apparel, Cavalor Equicare, Completely Equine and of course Bates Saddles (Connie loves her custom saddle), Sam and Connie are ready to take on the Martin Collins Australia Grand Prix in style!
We love a story where past and present owners remain family. Connie, we’ll be cheering for you all the way!
Photographers:
JRS Photography
Equico Studios
Flash Pony Photography

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