Leading riders head to Thoresby Park

Catch up on the action at the Eventing Spring Carnival.

Although persistent and heavy rain hampered preparations, it didn’t dampen the BEDE Events team’s spirits. In true “show must go on” style, they went ahead with the event, albeit with the cancellation of some sections.

The original CCI4*S entry featured Olympic, World and European champions and medallists, and although the final day was streamlined due to weather conditions, visitors were treated to winning performances from some of the sport’s biggest stars.

Regarded as one of the sport’s most prestigious 4* prizes, this year’s Lycetts Grantham Cup saw young rider Emily King in winning form.

Riding her own, Philippe Brivois, Event Horse Owners Syndicate, Jacquie Shere and Jeremy Shere’s Valmy Biats, Emily delivered a superb performance to finish on a score of 41.2, adding 14.4-time faults to their 26.8 dressage.

Emily, who is one of 66 horse and rider combinations heading to Badminton Horse Trials this month, said: “I can’t really believe it! He’s been fantastic all week, and it’s his first run of the season. If he was a bit excited, I’d have completely forgiven him and I couldn’t have asked any more from him.”

CCI4*S section saw a back-to-back Thoresby win for Piggy March and Brookfield Equestrian. A reunited partnership, with Piggy having ridden Brookfield Cavalier Cruise as a seven-year-old, the pair led from the start to complete on a score of 36.6 for owners Alison Swinburn, John and Chloe Perry.

Piggy March said: “I’m very lucky to have the ride on him again. He’s a talented horse who really enjoys his job. He’s one who won’t run a lot as he doesn’t need to, but he’s a very cool and an exciting

With weather affecting going and a significant number of withdrawals, there was much discussion regarding the cross-country course and how it is now playing a crucial role in preparing horses and riders

Speaking of Stuart Buntine and Captain Mark Phillips’s cross-country course, Piggy said: “It’s definitely a step up from last year. They’ve done a very good job and they’re going the right way in making it a course to prepare you for Badminton.

which was what the sport needed.”

For further information visit www.bede-events.co.uk

Photographs: Hannah Cole
Photography, EquiConsulting

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