MORE THAN 75 vaulters from across the Borders, and as far north as Pitlochry, competed in a number of disciplines over the course of the day at the inaugural season opening vaulting competition at Monteviot RDA Centre, Ancrum.
The event was hosted by Scottish Borders Disability Sport Group in association with British Equestrian Vaulting and Borders Riding for the Disabled Group and, for the first time at any vaulting competition, a disability classification structure was developed to allow vaulters with a disability to compete in disciplines equitably.
All categories were very competitive and all vaulters had to perform freestyles or set compulsories and freestyle routines, depending on their category.
Rosettes were given to the top six places in each category. Special mention must go to head judge Andrew Williamson who travelled from Wales.
This fully inclusive event was a huge success, high participation numbers seeing everyone enjoy themselves, but at the same time being competitive.
Equestrian vaulting is a passionate sport in the Borders and everyone involved was delighted to be able to organise an event for local vaulters.
Competitor Jane Currie said: “The atmosphere in the arena was great and being able to compete against and watch other vaulters with a disability is thoroughly inspirational, seeing how people can adapt skills to suit their ability.”
Shelly Henderson added: “It was a great day and there was a fantastic turnout from competitors and supporters.”
Scottish Borders Disability Group would like to thank committee member Ann Stark for organising and running the event, especially as it must have been a challenging task to incorporate three different organisation’s rules into one event.
Thanks also go to Borders Riding for the Disabled for agreeing to the use of Monteviot cost-free and the British Equestrian Vaulting for sanctioning the event.
Results – walk individual: Group A: 1, Abbi Romanes; 2, Katy Buchan; 3, Hannah Page. Group B: 1, Kate Murray; 2, Natalie Brown; 3, Jane Currie. Group D: 1, R. Girdwood; 2, Jack Hume; 3, Taylor Brown.
Pre-novice individual: Group A: Abbey Aitchison; 2, Abbi Nicol; 3, Elisa Hibbert. Group B: J. Bromley; 2, Kirsty Gibb; 3, Shelley Henderson. Group D: 1, Lisa Borthwick; 2, Harry Mcann; 3, Trevor Hanley.
Novice individual: Group A: 1, Amy Gilmour; 2, Suzie Crerar; 3, Beth Hay. Group B: 1, Christopher Lyons. Group D: 1, Callum Steel.
Walk pairs: 1, Amy Gilmour & Ellie Gilmour; 2, Suzie Crerar & Beth Hay; 3, Amelie Johnstone Jones & Hannah Page.
Walk squad: 1, Pegasus; 2, Reivers; 3, SBV; 4, Pegasus Victory Bay.
Best horse points: Zigourney.