The Sedbergh team eagerly embarked on their journey to this year’s National Schools Event held at Addington Manor in Buckinghamshire, a highly anticipated event that marks the culmination of a year’s worth of tireless teamwork and dedication. Thirteen horses and riders, representing both our Prep and Senior School, were part of our contingent. In this unique sport, riders from both schools join forces on the same team, fostering strong bonds. Our teams competed across a wide range of classes, spanning from 70cm to 1m 10, encompassing arena eventing, show jumping, team dressage, and individual dressage. With opportunities for riders of all interests, many of our equestrians participated in all three disciplines. For several riders, this Nationals event marked their inaugural experience on such a grand stage, proving their mettle as they transitioned from qualifiers to nationals. Merely making it to the event was a remarkable achievement, but returning home adorned with rosettes added the perfect finishing touch.
Prep school rider, Ella, got the week off to a flying start winning the competitive 70cm Pumpkin Show Jumping class with a speedy round and very tight lines. Scarlett took Reserve National Champion in the 1m 10 Arena Eventing so finished 2nd in the UK with a stunning round. This was an emotional round, as it was Scarlett’s last round for Sedbergh after competing in seven Nationals with the School. A true Sedberghian and brown blazer recipient helping the Team out whilst at university. We sincerely thank Sally and Scarlett for their endless input over the years. Prep School rider Zara took a super win the 80 Pumpkin warm up class with Elsie taking 3rd and Lucy finishing 5th.
Our teams narrowly missed out on securing rosettes this year. In the highly competitive field, our 90cm and 1m arena eventing teams claimed the 11th and 10th positions, respectively, among all teams in the UK. During the final two days of the event, our dressage riders showcased their skills in both the team and individual tests. Special recognition goes to Zara, who achieved an impressive 2nd place in the Novice Plate for her previous school, narrowly missing the top spot by a small margin. The grand finale of the Nationals belonged to Emma, who fearlessly tackled the challenging 1m 10 track in the pony section, ultimately earning the title of Reserve National Plate Champion. Despite the grueling three days of competition, they displayed unwavering determination and gave their all over the formidable jumps.
Thank you to the NSEA organisers and volunteers for organising such a fabulous Nationals. Thank you to all our parents, family, support crew and instructors for making this happen. Well done to the riders and ponies for working hard all year to gain these qualifications. The Sedbergh spirit shown throughout with everyone helping one another through the ups and downs of competing. Everyone showed a fantastic Sedbergh attitude throughout especially towards the mud and made some fantastic memories. Well done.