Smiles all round for BHS Equitation Champions Arabella and
Holly
The grand final of The British Horse Society's National Equitation
Competition sponsored by Puffa and Trot on Club took place
at Warwickshire College, Moreton Morrell on 28 May.
Torrential rain failed to dampen the enthusiasm of the 40
young riders who came from all corners of the UK to take part
in the competition, which is designed to encourage young non-horse
owners to ride and compete.
Riders qualified for the final through a series of regional
qualifiers at BHS Approved Riding Centres across the UK. The
standard of competition this year was extremely high and the
judges were very impressed that the level had risen yet again
over the last 12 months.
The 13 years and under Championship went to Arabella Murrison
who rides at Pippin Equestrian Ltd in Dorset. She rode a beautiful
dressage test on Coco Pops, achieved full marks in the theory
section and performed well in the Show Jumping.
Helen Barton-Smith, winning instructor at Pippin Equestrian,
said: “This is a fantastic competition which provides
a wonderful opportunity for children who wouldn’t otherwise
get to compete at a national level.”
For the 17 years and under Champion, Holly Johnstone from
Murton Equestrian Centre, Newcastle Upon Tyne, winning was
“like a dream”.
Holly and her mount Indie came eighth in the competition
last year and were keen to come back again this year. “We’ve
been working really hard,” says winning trainer Leanne
Coxon, “I’m so proud of her.”
The generous sponsorship of Puffa and Trot on Club meant
that the winning riders, trainers and establishments received
numerous prizes, including training vouchers, trophies and
rosettes. They also received saddlery vouchers kindly donated
by the Worshipful Company of Saddlers.
Hayley Sparkes of Puffa said: “We are thrilled to support
such a worthwhile event for the second year, it was great
to be able to watch such talented young riders. We are delighted
that our team Puffa Event rider Gemma Tattersall was there
to award the prizes to the winners.”
Mrs Louise Loudaros of Trot on Club said: “The standard
and the turnout at the competition was truly excellent. I
hope all the children thoroughly enjoyed themselves.”
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