Emma-Jo Slater Secures Second Round Success at Parwood

The Ariat Senior British Novice Championship Second Round at Parwood Equestrian Centre attracted 35 rider combinations at the weekend, all aiming to secure one of the coveted qualification spots for the final at the British Showjumping National Championships this August. 

Riders faced a testing track designed by John Farrell, with the course proving influential throughout the competition. Only seven combinations managed to keep a clean sheet through the opening two rounds to earn their place in the all-important jump-off. 

Rising to the occasion was Emma-Jo Slater aboard Kim Barzilay’s Big Night KZ. Producing a confident and efficient round, the pair stopped the clock in an impressive 39.40 seconds to claim victory and secure their ticket to the championship final. 

Taking second place was Seamus Dillon riding Chrome, who also delivered a faultless performance in the jump-off, crossing the line in 40.55 seconds. 

Third place went the way of Kirsty Oliver and Lipstick Lexy PG, who maintained the pressure with another clear round in a time of 41.61 seconds. 

With another exciting second round complete, attention now turns towards the British Showjumping National Championships in August, where qualified combinations will go head-to-head for the prestigious Ariat Senior British Novice Championship title. 

“The horse is by Big Star and we bought him after Nationals last year from Graham Dalton for Emma to bring on and produce a bit, we got all his double clears for British Novice, Discovery and Newcomers so we will keep him to do those second rounds. Starkey is a nine year old and a real character to have around, we call him ‘spaghetti legs’ but he leaves the fences up. 

“The course was good, a couple if the distances were a bit short but it wasn’t a problem for us and we didn’t have to go mega quick in the jump off. Emma was able to do an inside turn which the rider who had the quickest time hadn’t done so that gave us the edge. Starkey will go on to jump the other second rounds he has qualified for ahead of the National Championships.”  Kim Barzilay said, owner of Big Night KZ. 

Ariat Senior British Novice Championship Second Round 

Parwood Equestrian Centre, Saturday 9 May 2026 

1st – Emma-Jo Slater & Big Night KZ – 0/0/0 39.40 

2nd – Seamus Dillon & Chrome – 0/0/0 40.55 

3rd – Kirsty Oliver & Lipstick Lexy PG – 0/0/0 41.61 

NB Results pending official grading  

Image: LRG Photography