PERSHORE High School’s equestrian team enjoyed considerable success when they competed at the National Schools’ Equestrian Association showjumping event at Allens Hill Competition and Livery Centre.
The Pinvin event was the only qualifying competition for the school to try and gain a place to represent Worcestershire at the County Showjumping Championships at Bury Farm in Leighton Buzzard (April 21-23).
It was also the last qualifying competition in the country for schools to try and gain a place to ride as one of 11 schools from the country at the Royal Windsor Horse Show on May 13 in the 90cm competition.
Schools had therefore travelled from far and wide to try and gain a place to ride at the prestigious show, with some travelling three to four hours to compete.
Pershore had an amazing day as riders enjoyed numerous wins and podium positions. In what was a stunning success, Pershore topped a 20-team pile in the 90cm competition to secure a place to compete at Windsor.
The team of Hannah Cartwright (16), Lauren Carpenter (13), Holly Scrafton (15) and Jess Thomas (16) cannot wait for the opportunity and they will also be the school representing Worcestershire at Bury Farm at the County Championships.
Lauren also finished fifth individually.
In the 1m competition, Sophie Rushton came first and qualified to represent Worcestershire in the County Challenge Championship as an individual, whilst Grace Plowman was third.
The team of Sophie (18), Charlotte Albutt (15), Grace (14) and Jess also won the 1m team competition and qualify to represent Worcestershire in the County Challenge Championship.
Hannah Cartwright won the 80cm event and qualified to represent Worcestershire in the County Challenge Championship.
Sophie was first and Grace second in the 1.10m competition and have therefore qualified to represent Worcestershire in the County Challenge Championship.
Lauren, Holly and Sammie Baker (14) also formed a team who were fourth in the 1m competition, whilst Ellie Shuter (14), Lily Elliot (13) and Emily Cooper (16) finished fifth in the 70cm competition.
Grace Titterton (14), Verity Hodge (13) and Emily came sixth in the 80cm competition and the team of Erin Hobbs (14), Mouse Robinson (13), Lily and Hannah narrowly missed being placed in the 80cm competition.
Team manager Rachel Kilmister said: “This was a truly fantastic performance from all riders.
“The girls also helped out with different tasks to help the competition run smoothly. They should be thoroughly pleased with themselves and I am incredibly proud to be part of their success.”
