Pupils at a Shropshire school have achieved ‘astonishing’ results after dominating a national equestrian competition.
Teams from Ellesmere College were crowned champions in three out of four fixed height class competitions while individual students also captured podium places at the National Schools Equestrian Association (NSEA) UK National Showjumping Championships last weekend (OCT 17 and 18).
The students and their horses and ponies had to qualify for the championships at Addington Equestrian Centre, Buckinghamshire, in various events at different venues across the country before taking part in the four days of competition against more than 1,200 horses and riders from schools across the UK.
Jonathan Shaw, head of Ellesmere College said competing at this level represents the pinnacle of school equestrian sport in Britain and all the staff are very proud of the riders’ outstanding success.
He said: “This truly is an astonishing achievement. The pupils absolutely dominated the competition and came home with more silverware than they have ever achieved at this event in the past.
“The hard work and perseverance has really paid off with success across multiple disciplines, combining skill, composure, and teamwork throughout. We believe this will be just a stepping stone to even more success in the future.
“Just putting this in perspective, Ellesmere pupils beat some serious competition including some schools which are known for their equestrian prowess, it is a wonderful occasion.”
Ellesmere College students won the 70cm Team, 80cm Team and 1m Team NSEA UK National Championshipships while Grace McKerchar came first in the 90cm individual and runner up in the 80cm individual competition.
Jasmine Newsman also came runner up in the 1.20m individual competition and fourth in the 1.10m individual event, while the team finished second in the Mixed Height RPL UK and 6th in the 90cm event.
In the weeks leading up to the National Championships, the students received lessons and mentoring with former Ellesmere College student Carmen Edwards, an international showjumper for team GB.
Carmen, who attended the College until 2015, enabled students to use his facilities and get support and guidance from a professional show jumper.
In addition, the students were coached by Polly Stockon, a former show rider in the British World Class Performance squad and Showjumping Coach for Ellesmere College.
Christopher Horrocks, Director of Sport at Ellesmere College, added: “Polly Stockton has serious riding and showjumping acumen, having our students coached by her is a huge coup.
“Moreover, the fact Carmen wanted to help prepare our pupils for the event says so much about the investment he still has in Ellesmere and showjumpers of the future.
“These two benefits, as well as an incredible amount of hard work and practice, while continuing with their school work, from our pupils was the perfect recipe for their well-deserved success.”
For more information about equestrian opportunities at Ellesmere College visit www.ellesmere.com.
