The team achieved outstanding results across multiple disciplines, securing one National Championship title, three team silver podium finishes, a team bronze in dressage, and an impressive total of 27 rosettes — a significant milestone for the College’s equestrian programme.

Leading the celebrations was Anaya, who was crowned Open Individual Champion in the Eventers Challenge, a demanding competition that showcases technical precision, boldness, and confident riding. She was supported by her teammates, who also performed strongly to claim team silver in the same class, demonstrating the squad’s depth of talent in their specialist discipline of eventing.

The success continued in the 90cm Eventers Challenge, where the team once again secured second place, with riders achieving a series of strong individual placings. Performances were particularly impressive given how closely competitors rode to the optimum time, with results often separated by just seconds.

In dressage — an essential component of eventing — the team rose to the challenge of competing against specialist combinations. Their commitment and quality shone through as they achieved third place in the Open County Dressage Championships. Neve and Isobel both earned notable individual placings, while Neve delivered an exceptional performance in the Winter Dressage Finals, finishing second on both of her horses.

The College’s horses also competed in the Open County and Elite 1m Show Jumping classes, producing a number of polished rounds and securing a team placing, with only the occasional rail in tightly contested second rounds.

This year’s achievements mark a significant progression for the team. When Shebbear last attended the Hickstead Championships two years ago, they returned with four rosettes. In contrast, this year saw every rider come home with a prize, contributing to a remarkable total of 27 rosettes — clear evidence of the programme’s continued growth and development.

The team — Neve, Isobel, Anaya, Annabelle, Nancy and Zola, alongside their nine horses — demonstrated not only competitive excellence but also exceptional dedication to horse welfare in extreme conditions. Ensuring the horses remained cool, comfortable and performing at their best was a top priority throughout the event.

Every rider played a vital role in the team’s success, showing resilience, teamwork and sportsmanship at one of the country’s most prestigious equestrian venues.

Shebbear College extends its thanks to the NSEA and event sponsors for organising a fantastic championship and providing such memorable opportunities for young riders.