Manx riders from Riding for the Disabled delivered a standout performance at the National Championships at Hartpury College in Gloucestershire over the weekend.
The three riders placed in seven of their eight classes across dressage, countryside challenge, and their newest discipline, showjumping.
Catrina, Seb and Tilly represented the island on borrowed ponies from an RDA group in the North East, each surpassing their previous qualifying scores in what coaches described as a “remarkable” step forward for the squad.
The annual championships, held at Hartpury’s prestigious equestrian facilities, offered what the group called “a wonderful setting to make memories” as they look to expand next year’s entries to include vaulting and showing.
Coach Diane Simpson said: “We could not be prouder of the team this year. Everyone is new to the competition and just qualifying is such an achievement, let alone doing as well as they did at a national level.”
Group Chair Joan Waters added: “Sending our riders and coaching team to the Nationals is such a privilege. We’re so grateful to everyone who supports us, from the Guilcagh team for horse prep to the Steam Packet for travel assistance. It all adds up to the amazing memories and results they bring home.”
