Sedbergh Crowned Reserve National Schools Champions at Hickstead

Sedbergh School delivered an unforgettable performance to be crowned Reserve National Schools Champions in the 80 Eventers Challenge, a marathon class that stretched over ten hours.

For eight suspense-filled hours the Sedbergh quartet guarded their lead, tackling a demanding, technical course that pushed horse-and-rider partnerships to the brink. Each competitor crossed the finish with faces lit by pride and sheer exhilaration—a sight that left the support team misty-eyed and cheering.

The triumphant line-up—Elsie, Sophie, Lily and Izzy—the only school to finish with four clear rounds, a sparkling display of composure, teamwork and athletic flair. Their performance captured the very essence of school sport: riders competing not just for individual glory, but for one another. Sedbergh’s community could not be prouder.

Strong Performances at the County Show Jumping

Sedbergh School also shone in the County Show Jumping, an event where the leading school from each UK county goes head-to-head. In the fiercely contested 80cm and 90cm classes, Sedbergh claimed 6th and 4th place respectively, earning rosettes in both. The team—Elsie, Harriet, Sophie, Lily, Olivia, and Nina Jane—delivered performances that placed them among the best, a significant and well-earned achievement.

Nationals Qualifiers and Standout Individual Rounds

With eyes on the upcoming October Nationals, Sedbergh riders continued to impress in qualifying events. Natasha, Izzy and Sophie dominated the 90cm Arena Eventing, securing a major win. Sophie was particularly outstanding, finishing first and second on her two horses in the same class and later claiming victory in the 1.10m ponies with a flawless round in the polo arena.

The weekend began in style courtesy of Team Captain Elsie, whose foot-perfect 1m Eventers Challenge round on Ooda Loop left spectators in awe. Riding both Ooda Loop and Clough Rae Trixie, Elsie led the squad with confidence and humility throughout an unforgettable weekend.

Team Spirit and Unforgettable Memories

Beyond the competitive success, what truly defined the weekend was the exceptional camaraderie and team spirit. With ten horses and eight families representing Sedbergh, the team camp buzzed with energy, laughter and support. Most families spent eight hours travelling to the venue near Brighton, and it was especially meaningful to see three generations from many families come together, creating a vibrant Sedbergh camp. The weekend perfectly captured the essence of school days—pursuing a sport the riders love while sharing unforgettable moments with friends and family of all ages.

A special mention goes to Izzy (Year 10), who generously gave her time to support the team—handling jobs behind the scenes and cheering on her teammates throughout the weekend.

Heartfelt thanks also went to Mrs Kelsall, whose daughter rode for the team for seven years. This year, Mrs Kelsall returned to help transport a family on the long drive and played a vital role in supporting the group throughout the weekend; her selflessness and dedication were deeply appreciated.

During the team dinner, Team Colours were awarded to two exceptional parents in recognition of their extraordinary support:

• Mrs McMullen, for unwavering commitment to the team—always first to help with administration and ensuring her daughter could back the squad at every event despite a challenging six months.
• Mrs Kelsall, for years of dedication to the team and her readiness to step in at short notice to assist the group.

The Sedbergh community is truly fortunate to have such remarkable people; their generosity, spirit and love for the team make moments like these possible.

Team Manager Faye Barker reflected on the weekend:

“The team were absolutely phenomenal from start to finish—true Sedberghians through and through. They didn’t just compete—they rose.

From the setbacks to the successes, early starts to late nights, their unity and resilience were awe-inspiring with so much fun along the way. Finishing second in the country is an extraordinary result—but even more so is the way they supported each other, led with humility, and made unforgettable memories. These riders have shown what grit, grace, and teamwork can achieve. They’ve proven that kindness and commitment can ride alongside excellence, and they have looked out for each other every step of the way.

 

Myself, your families, friends, and the entire school are beyond proud—not just of your results, but of who you ar e. You’ve shown the very best of what school sport can be.

Thank you to the NSEA for these opportunities to come together in a sport which we are so passionate about and these riders show so much heart.”