Bristol teen takes Hickstead title

Monday 23 June 2025

Young Bristol showjumper Sophie Howell enjoyed a major win at the Al Shira’aa Hickstead Derby Meeting, one of the country’s most prestigious equestrian competitions.

Sixteen-year-old Sophie took the top spot in the Hickstead 1.10m Amateur Championship, beating 15 of the country’s best amateur riders with her mother’s seven-year-old mare Saphira Ballante. “I’ve had her since she was three years old, and she’s always been a fiery mare,” said Sophie

The pair stopped the clock on 42.46sec in the jump-off – more than half a second faster than her nearest rivals, Katie Vaughan and Garou.

It’s another excellent accolade for the young rider, who is currently working towards her A-levels at The Castle School in Thornbury. She was previously awarded British Showjumping’s NAF Shining Star Award in 2022 for her commitment to the sport while competing for the Bristol and Somerset Academy.

For now, she’s enjoying working hard and training towards her competitive goals, and while her success in Hickstead’s International Arena might have given her a taste of bigger things to come.

Image: Boots and Hooves Photography

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