Inaugural Arena Eventing champions crowned
The Festival of British Eventing hosted an Arena Eventing competition for the first time this year, giving amateur riders at BE90 and BE100 levels the chance to compete on Gatcombe’s hallowed turf.
The two-phase challenge comprising a mixture of showjumping and cross-country fences, proved exceptionally popular with nearly 200 entries across the two sections. Both classes were hard-fought and required skill, accuracy and commitment from horses and riders.
BE90 honours went to local rider, Anna Wiles and her 16.2hh gelding, Glen.
“He’s quite well-established at BE100 level, but he’s had a little holiday while my children have been off school, so it was great to be able to come here and have a go at this,” said Anna. “I thought it was a lovely course — very flowing, beautifully built and prepared — and the ground had dried out really well since yesterday. I will definitely be coming back next year.”
Victory in the BE100 went to Morgan Shelley and Cavandjo Silver Fox.
