Amy Capper shines at South View Equestrian’s Small Pony Premier Show
Monday 12 February 2024
The spotlight was on Amy Capper this weekend as she shone in the 128cm Second Rounds on both days of the South View Equestrian Small Pony Premier, cementing her spot in the Winter 128cm Championship Final at the Agria Royal International Horse Show.
The first day of competition did not disappoint. 36 pony-rider combinations started, with only 12 posting the clear round needed to progress to the next round. Ultimately it was Amy Capper and Annabel Widdowson who dominated, securing all the spots in the second jump-off aboard two ponies each. Racing against the clock, Amy rode to success clinching first and second place aboard Riverview Sandy and Dooneens Electric respectively.
Lucia Caroline continued her success from Aintree Equestrian Centre last month, as she once again emerged victorious on the second day of the 128cm Second Round class aboard Desdemone du Marquais. With a fabulous triple clear, Lucia showcased her exceptional skills and solidified her position as a rising star in the sport.
Not far behind Lucia, Amy Capper again delivered outstanding performances, achieving a remarkable three triple clears on her rides, securing second and third place in the competition.
Saturday's Winter 138cm Second Round provided an exciting challenge for the riders. With a testing course, seven clears were achieved in the first round. The jump-off was incredibly tight, with only 0.28 seconds separating first and second. In the end, it was Christina Cotton riding Mayfly Black Pennell who stopped the clock first, securing the win with a time of 37.43 seconds. Raphaela Dawson on Churchfield Tulla Bluebell closely followed in second place, earning her a sought-after qualification spot in the Final.
Sunday's qualifier brought even more determination from the young riders, as they battled it out in the final round in a bid to secure their place in the Winter 138cm Championship Final. Raphaela outperformed herself from the previous day, this time riding Ardnacashel Little Dreamer to claim the top spot in a time of 31.74 seconds. Although she posted a faster time on Noahs Lady, 4 faults prevented her from securing a one-two finish.
A wonderful display from these young riders, earning well deserved spots in the Winter 128cm and 138cm Championship Finals at the Agria Royal International Horse Show
Lacie Williams had a successful weekend, scoring a double win in the 128cm/138cm Handicap Special Qualifier on both Saturday and Sunday. Riding Little Field Twilight on Saturday, Lacie guided her pony to victory, finishing nearly 5 seconds faster than the next competitor. On Sunday, Lacie continued her winning streak with Jessie Mae Harmony, stopping the clock at 31.70 seconds narrowly surpassing second-place finisher Ted Bastian-Mason on Ballytrasna II by 1.97 seconds.
The 11 Years and Under Qualifier was a true showcase of young talent and skill, as riders put on a spectacular display of showjumping prowess. With an impressive 36 double clears out of 55 starting combinations, the standards were high, with all those who achieved double clears taking joint first, highlighting the exceptional level of performance.
The second day of the show was equally remarkable, with 30 combinations riding double clears in the 11 Years and Under incorporating the 10 Years and Under Style and Performance Qualifier. These young riders proved their mettle and demonstrated their potential for future success in the sport.
A special congratulations goes out to all the riders who secured their spot at the Winter Pony Finals later this year by riding their second double clear - a well-deserved achievement.
In the Scope 128cm/138cm Championship Handicap Qualifier, competitors gave it their all as they rode to contend for their spot at the prestigious Scope Festival. An impressive 41 double clears were achieved, showcasing the level of talent and determination among the riders.
The Small Pony Premier Show at South View Equestrian was filled with exceptional performances and wonderful displays of horsemanship. It was a testament to the talent and dedication of the young riders, and we look forward to seeing their continued success in the future.
Image: Phil Hillier/Landscapre and Horses Photography
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