Bloxham’s equestrians had an action-packed Bank Holiday weekend, with a contingent travelling to Hickstead for the NSEA Championships and others competing at Princethorpe College for their annual two day event organised in collaboration with Stoneleigh Riding Club.
A dedicated group comprising Aisling M., Bridget H., Jemima L., Freddie S., and Jack W. arrived at Hickstead on Saturday, having earned qualifications for three different classes throughout the season. The students stabled on the showground for the weekend, showcasing remarkable team spirit, friendship, and determination.
Their primary focus was the 80cm and 90cm Eventer Challenge Championships. On Sunday, the team of Bridget, Jemima, Freddie, and Jack competed in the 80cm event, delivering exceptional performances to secure 11th place out of 55 teams.
On Sunday morning, the team tackled the 90cm Championships with renewed vigour. Aisling, Bridget, Jemima, and Freddie rode early in the competition, initially taking the lead on the scoreboard. After a tense five-hour wait, during which other teams came close but ultimately fell behind, Bloxham’s team emerged as the NSEA Eventer Challenge 90cm Championship Winners for 2024, triumphing over 35 other teams from across the UK.
This team had also qualified for the Royal Windsor Horse Show NSEA Show Jumping 90cm Championships earlier in May. Unfortunately, a heavy downpour led to the cancellation of the Inter-School class. However, the team is set to compete in the rearranged Championship at Addington in October.
A huge congratulations to the team and immense gratitude to their support crew, including parents, friends, Colina, and Mrs. Skevington. This weekend will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come. Additional congratulations go to Jack W., who secured 4th place in the Pop-up Dressage Championships at Hickstead. Also, well done to Hattie B. and Josh E., who both delivered outstanding performances at Princethorpe, finishing 5th in the 90cm class and 9th in the 70cm class, respectively.