Billy Colclough Claims Double Podium in Thrilling Ariat Senior British Novice Second Round at Willow Banks
Wednesday 06 May 2026
The Ariat Senior British Novice Championship Second Round at Willow Banks delivered an exciting weekend of competition, with riders battling it out for their coveted qualification to the British Showjumping National Championships later this summer.
A strong field of 38 rider combinations came forward to take on Piers Warmoth’s technical and thoughtfully designed course. It proved to be a true test of accuracy and consistency, with only 14 combinations managing to produce two all-important clear rounds to secure their place in the jump-off.
When it came down to the final showdown, it was Billy Colclough who dominated proceedings with an outstanding performance. Riding Christopher Colclough’s Another Cora, Billy delivered a superb clear round in a swift time of 34.99 seconds to take the top honours.
Hot on his heels was Stephanie Gunn aboard Quarantino, who also jumped a faultless round, stopping the clock at 37.72 seconds to claim second place. Demonstrating impressive consistency, Billy Calclough returned to the podium once again, this time securing third place with Simply Addictive after another polished clear effort.
“We had a great day, Billy was first and third in the second round and also won two other classes while we were there as well, so it was a worthwhile trip! The mare is a six year old and co-owned by Georgina Brill, who has produced her for the last twelve months, she’s been with us now for four months for Billy to ride. They’ve had a great partnership from the off, we have horses in to sell so Billy is able to adjust to new horses quickly, he’s only 16 but has an old head on his shoulders.
“Piers builds a very good and following course, which suited us, there were enough clears through to round two. We have only been to Willow banks twice and went for the qualifier, we are also going back next weekend for their NAF Bronze League Qualifier. We will step her up to Newcomers now and aim to get those double clears and any other qualifiers we can aim for. Billy has been to the Championships before with other horses, he is good under pressure, he takes everything in his stride so hope to have a good chance in the final.” Said Billy’s dad, Chris.
With a competitive field and high-quality performances throughout, the class at Willow Banks was a fantastic showcase of emerging talent within the sport, setting the stage perfectly for an exciting championship final later in the season.
Ariat Senior British Novice Championship Second Round
Willow Banks, Saturday 2 May 2026
1st – Billy Colclough & Another Cora – 0/0/0 34.99
2nd – Stephanie Gunn & Quarantino – 0/0/0 37.72
3rd – Billy Colclough & Simply Addictive – 0/0/0 38.19
NB Results pending official grading
