Champs at Cheshire by Katelyn Brown

Champs were a great experience but unfortunately it took us 7 hours to get up to the show ground but luckily only 5 on the way back which was a lot kinder for Spirit. It was lovely when we got there to be able to park with the Birkbys and the horse and pony care teams. I was very helpful with giving them so revision, they definitely knew more than me! After the first day at the champs I could not be any more pleased with Spirit. 15th out of 60 in the Open Section. Finishing on 4 faults, with there only being 4 double clears in total. We also gained 5th in the horsemanship section of the competition. This is awarded for the effectiveness of the rider and giving your horse the best chance of going clear. On the Sunday myself and Spirit joined with other members of Area 11 to make up an Open Team at the National Championships. The team finished on a combined total of 24 faults placing us 12th out of 30 teams. But 11th as a National team. Myself and Spirit finished with 8 faults over the two rounds. It was a pleasure to be part of a great team. I would like to thank all the team at Pony Club that make this such a great Championships for all.

Also to add in I had super groom Leonie who kindly platted Spirit for me on the Saturday which stayed in very well for me to keep in and jump with on the Sunday!