Third time lucky for Newbridge College

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Having been second for the past two years, the team from Newbridge College in Co Kildare was delighted to take the Senior Schools team and individual titles at the Hurstpierpoint College National Schools and Pony Club Jumping Finals.

The annual team competition ended up in a jump-off between the three teams who had all posted three clears in the first round – Newbridge College, eventual runners up Dean Close School and Millfield School Red. A fast clear round from Newbridge College’s Caragh Sweeney (16) and Kippure Steepleview Jack secured team honours, while her team mate Max Ross (14) took the individual prize. In second individually was Kings of Wessex school pupil Kathryn Thomas and Zorba IV, who were also part of the winning Pony Club Team.

“This is one of the biggest competitions that we take part in so it’s great to win,” said Max, who was riding his 14.2hh showjumping mare Bally David Souz.

“It’s unbelievable to get the opportunity to compete at such a well known prestigious venue as Hickstead,” said fellow Newbridge College team member Leah Heffernan, 15, who rode My Rockstown Two.

Fifteen-year-old Niamh Flinter and her mare Classie Lass were taking part in this team competition for the first time. “I couldn’t help but smile when I was competing in this arena. I had a feeling we might win as we have a great team,” she said.

For the first time ever, the Hurstpierpoint College National Schools and Pony Club Jumping Championships were held over two days (1 & 2 August).

Wednesday saw a number of National Schools Equestrian Association (NSEA) Finals take place at the All England Jumping Course. Radnor House pupil Honor Redhouse took the honours in the NSEA 1.10m Elite Final, riding Zara Queen of Hearts. In the NSEA 1m team competition, the team of Amber Fletcher, Katinka Beckett, Ellie Fredericks and Lauren Dallison from Dauntsey’s School won following a jump-off against Mayfield School Reds. The NSEA 80-85cms Individual title went to Katie Toulson-Clarke from Heathside School, riding Pleuny Esme.

The final event to be held at Hickstead this year will be the All England Jumping Championships (30 August – 2 September), which has classes from 90cm up to a £6,000 1.40m Grand Prix.

For full results click here.