Ellen Whitaker takes the glory in the Horse of the Year Show Wild Card Qualifier
Friday 10 August 2018
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Friday at the British Showjumping National Championships saw leg one of the Horse of the Year Show Wild Card Qualifier in Championship Arena 1. With an incredible 77 combinations setting out to contest the 1.40m course the challenge was on. After a great display of showjumping talent, there were 20 horse and rider combinations through to the jump-off for a chance to win the Championship title. It was Ellen Whitaker who prevailed in dramatic fashion with a confident display on board Casaktie. With the sun shining once again after a torrential downpour, the showjumpers paved the way for the exciting weekend ahead.
The successful partnership of Ellen and nine year old Casaktie came together in April this year and has been going from strength to strength ever since. She commented: “I knew my horse was on good form as she has been doing well across Europe this season. Although she is quite new she has been continually coming on. I knew she was quick so I thought I just have to ride my own jump-off, at our natural speed and not worry about anybody else.”
With multiple clear rounds posted, the pressure was on. Ellen and Casaktie took the competition on head first, taking risks and going all out – much to the delight of the crowd. The courage and confidence displayed by the pair is testament to the bond they have forged over the five month period they have been together.
“Casaktie is so careful; she is one of those horses in the jump-off that you can just keep pushing.”
Ellen concluded: “You have to take it as it comes and do your best. Tonight I am going to go and celebrate with my little boys who are going to be delighted with my sash and my rug.”
Saturday and Sunday will see the continuation of the Horse of the Year Show International Wild Card Series. The Wild Card League Points Table can be found here: https://www.bsnationalchampionships.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Wild-Card-points-11.08.2018.pdf
It is not only competitors who are guaranteed a fabulous day out, the British Showjumping National Championships also offers a great family day of exciting competition, hospitality and afternoon tea offerings and a retail shopping village. Entry for spectators wishing to take advantage of this fantastic show is free and parking is only £5 per car. For more information please go to http://www.bsnationalchampionships.com/ or call 02476 858205.
Image Credit: 1st Class Images
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