The first Baileys Jump Training event of 2012 got underway on Sunday 22nd January at Golden Cross Equestrian Centre in East Sussex under the watchful eye of Coaches Ben Leather and Cindy Llewellyn. The series offers the opportunity for riders to have the experienced eye of the Coaches on hand whilst taking part in a competitive event.
Ben noted the importance of the series saying “It provides a great opportunity for young riders in particular. It gives them a great start and the chance to receive some coaching on how they can improve. We should encourage more people to take part because it really does make a difference.”
British Eventing newcomers dominated the day, and Emily Watson and My Prince Charming won the BE80T section. This was only their second British Eventing competition, having competed at Pulborough Horse Trials when Emily took the ride of the horse in October 2011. Watson and the 12-year-old gelding finished on a score of 29 penalties. Hannah Roddis, who was on her first British Eventing outing with 6-year-old gelding Backley Charmer, followed them in 2nd.
Hugo Goodwin was to qualify two rides for the BE90 final at Solihull Riding Club in April. He finished in 1st place with Ravens Final Choice, and in 4th with Shanagarry at only his second British Eventing competition. Coach Ben Leather, who was casting an eye over the Jump Training for the first time was particularly impressed with Hugo saying, “He won the class particularly convincingly. Joshua in 2nd place was strong too, and after those two there was a 12 point gap!”
2nd placed Joshua Thompson was another on his first British Eventing run with As Cool As Ice, although the 11 year old gelding was part of the winter series in 2009 with Alice Sandberg, who is having a very strong JAS series this year.
In the BE100 section Sarah Bliss took the top placing with Lyagett Bay, an 11-year-old gelding she has been eventing since 2010. The pair finished on a score of 33 points. Clare Walton-Cole took the second place with Carenthago Z, who she also took to Solihull’s JAS event last week.
British Eventing Coach Ben had just one tip for those entering the Jump Training series. “Be realistic. Don’t try and push yourself too far too quickly. You’re better to stick with what you’re comfortable with and build your confidence that way”.
The next Jump Training event takes place on 14th February at Wellington Riding, Hampshire.
Report: Paul White
