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Tulara Diarangol

If there’s one thing Tulara Diarangol—better known as “Didi”—is good at, aside from soaring over massive fences, it’s bringing pure joy to those around him. And for his rider, Jess Rice-Ward, there’s never a dull moment with this dark brown powerhouse.

Bred by Mark and Anna Fraser of Tulara Warmbloods, Didi was always destined to be special. His sire, Diarado, is renowned for producing bold, careful jumpers, while his dam, Tulara Tanzee, carries the bloodlines of the legendary Contango II. It’s a pedigree that screams class, yet it’s Didi’s heart and enthusiasm that have truly made him a standout.

Originally bought by Isabel Houghton as a colt, Didi took an unconventional path, starting his career as a 4* eventer before making the switch to showjumping. And what a switch it was. When Jess found herself without a Grand Prix horse after an unfortunate career-ending injury, Issy suggested Didi as a potential partner. With limited funds to replace her top mount, taking a risk on an older, relatively inexperienced horse seemed like a gamble—but one that has paid off in the most spectacular way.

 

Since forming their partnership in mid-2023, Jess and Didi have defied expectations, proving that trust, determination, and a bit of well-placed faith can take you to extraordinary places. In just six months together, they finished 12th in their first-ever World Cup at DJWTS 2023, securing a 2* Minimum Eligibility Requirement (MER). Then came the 2024 season, where they continued their rise, placing 10th in the Willinga Park World Cup and earning an impressive 10th overall in the Australian Senior Championships. Every time Didi steps into the ring, he gives it his all, and for Jess, every ride is a reminder of why she took that chance on him.

But Didi isn’t just a competitor—he’s a character. With boundless enthusiasm and a serious case of ADHD, he’s always on the move, ears pricked, ready for whatever comes next. Whether it’s a competition or just heading to the paddock, he doesn’t walk—he charges ahead with excitement, embracing life with an energy that’s contagious.

And if you call his name? You’d better be ready. Didi doesn’t just amble over—he bolts to the gate, neighing in response, a habit that never fails to bring a smile. When it comes to food, he’s not picky—he loves ALL of it. Carrots, apples, treats… if it’s edible, Didi’s interested. But don’t let his playful nature fool you—when it’s time to work, he’s all business, pouring his heart into every round.

With support from sponsors Completely Equine, De La Coeur, and Rosehip Equine Vital, Didi has everything he needs to perform at his best. His future is bright, with goals set on improving at the top level and, ultimately, winning a World Cup. But in the immediate future, all eyes are on the GDP Grand Prix—the next step in an already incredible journey.

Didi’s story is one of resilience, unexpected opportunities, and an unbreakable bond between horse and rider. From taking a chance on an older, untested mount to competing on the biggest stages in Australian showjumping, Jess and Didi have proven that sometimes, the best partnerships are the ones you never saw coming.

The road ahead is long, but one thing is certain—Didi is just getting started.

See you at the Classic, Didi!


 

Photographers -- Australian Jumping, Simon Scully Photography, Elegant Exposures, Michelle Terlato Photography, Emma Kwasha, Jessie Smith.

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