Fishguard Sports edge Camrose in dramatic Division Two Cup Final
A FISHGUARD amateur rider has qualified for the prestigious Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) following a standout performance at a major qualifier in Warwickshire.
Hannah Jenkins and her eye-catching grey horse, Le Paz—known as Balou at home—secured victory in the Working Horse class at the SEIB Search for a Star qualifier held at Stoneleigh Park on Saturday (May 25). Judged by top showing experts Nicola Taylor and Richard Ramsay, the win earns the pair a coveted place in the HOYS finals at the NEC Birmingham this October.
Hannah, who works full-time as an intensive care nurse, spoke of the challenges she faced juggling work commitments and competition preparation. The pair narrowly missed qualification at an earlier event at Hartpury University, where they finished runners-up.
'Hartpury was originally the only qualifier I could do,' she said. 'After we came second there, I thought, 'I'm going to have to try again now,' so I swapped my shifts around so we could come here today.'
Balou originally came to Hannah on loan from her best friend, who bred him. 'I had twin boys and she knew I got on with Balou and wanted to help me get back in the saddle,' Hannah explained. 'He came to stay and never left. I've owned him since last summer and I love him to bits.'
Nicolina MacKenzie, organiser of SEIB Search for a Star, praised Hannah's determination and the ethos of the competition. 'Search for a Star is all about the journey—learning and improving over time. Our team of judges and stewards are committed to supporting competitors and helping them achieve their potential.'
The SEIB Search for a Star series, launched in 1996, has opened the door for thousands of amateur riders to compete at national level, including at HOYS and Your Horse Live. Qualifiers take place throughout the country, offering a broad range of classes for amateur show riders.
For more information and updates, visit www.seib.co.uk/competitions or the SEIB Search for a Star Facebook page. Entries can be made via the Showing Scene platform.
SEIB has been providing specialist equestrian insurance for over 60 years, offering tailored cover for horses, riders, horseboxes, trailers, and businesses. More details can be found at www.seib.co.uk.
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