Two members of Hurst’s equestrian team have continued to compete during lockdown, courtesy of the winter pop-up dressage series from home organised by the NSEA (National Schools Equestrian Association).
Riders can choose from a selection of dressage tests to learn and perform at an arena near their home from November through to March. They can practice the tests a number of times before uploading a video to be judged and points are awarded according to placings. Riders also receive feedback and tips on how to improve their score.
Martha and Maddie competed in the November and December editions. Martha, who finished seventh in November and fifth in December, felt her mount, Kilconly Richie, was much calmer in second of the two tests and was delighted with the result as her horse can get a little over excited and tense. Maddie and Desperado were not placed but their overall score improved each time with 64.4% in December compared to 62.5% in November.
“ This is a brilliant opportunity for our students to put in some hard work during the winter months and receive some invaluable feedback so that they can progress and come into the spring and summer months as a stronger combination ” Georgina Black, Equestrian Team Manager