VHPRC at the British Riding Club National Horse Trials Championships – Swalcliffe

Last weekend, VHPRC proudly took on the British Riding Club National Horse Trials Championships at Swalcliffe – two days of top-class competition with dressage and show jumping on Saturday, followed by a testing cross country course on Sunday. Our team of four – Charlotte Alford, Nicola Steele, Kate Stenner, and Bella Wills – had qualified at Howick and were ready to represent the club in style.

Kate & Brenin got the team off to a strong start with a smart 26.2 dressage score. The show jumping brought an unfortunate 8 faults, both down to their shared bogey fence, but they didn’t let that dent their spirits. Out on the cross country, the course proved tricky with a couple of stops, but they soon found their rhythm and flew the remaining fences in style.

Nicola & Blue had a frustrating dressage result and a few poles in the show jumping, but the cross country was where they really shone. Blue – just six years old – was first out on course and attacked it with bravery and flair, even giving spectators a heart-stopping two-legged start before powering round with confidence.

Bella & Ollie produced a well-ridden dressage test but sadly an unplanned dismount in the show jumping brought their competition to an early end. True to form, Bella turned her energy into supporting her teammates – walking courses with them, offering encouragement, and being a huge boost to the team’s morale.

Charlotte & Josie delivered a fantastic all-round performance – a solid dressage score, a foot-perfect clear in the show jumping, and a super cross country round to clinch a brilliant 7th place in their section. We are SO SO proud of you both!!!

It was a weekend of mixed results but unwavering team spirit, with plenty of smiles and proud moments all round. A huge thank you to the grooms and supporters who came along – your encouragement and help made all the difference.

We’d love to see even more members get involved next time – whether as part of a team or competing individually. And if riding isn’t on the cards, why not join us as a supporter or volunteer? It’s a fabulous day out and a great way to be part of the VHPRC spirit.

Charlotte Alford and Josie - Racing their way to 7th Placing