Kim Young from Clarebrand, Dumfries and Galloway and her 6yo KWPN mare ‘First Miss Sunrise A.S’ qualified to compete in 3 classes at the British Dressage Winter Championships at Hartpury College, Gloucestershire last weekend.
Kim Told DGWGO Sports News ” The first class took place on the Wednesday which was the Elementary Open freestyle were we finished 17th on 68.72%. It was a very electric atmosphere which the horse found a touch daunting so the test was marred by tension unfortunately.
The next day we upped our game and finished 5th in the Novice Open Freestyle with 72.96% which was a great result in a class full of the countries most talented horses and riders.
On Friday we had our last class with the Novice Open were we we finished in 13th place on 68.33% which was disappointing to not get a top ten but we finished highest Amateur rider which was great as the majority were professional riders.
Training and competing is my hobby as I work full time as a self employed dog groomer so to qualify for 3 classes was a great achievement especially on such a young horse. Competing amongst the countries top riders was a privilege and has really inspired and motivated me to up my game so we can improve our results hopefully the next time we qualify for Championships. ”
Kim also said ” Thanks must go to Gaynor Ranshaw, the local WOW saddle fitter who ensured my saddle was in top shape for the competition and WOW Saddles themselves for donating saddlecloths for my horse to wear.
Also Thanks to Elaine Caig from Excellence in Equestrian Bedding, a local company who sponsored Fiona and I with some feeding for our trip.”
