Over the winter we have been running qualifiers at our monthly Show Jumping shows for the PC Dengie winter SJ series, the Area 19 National Qualifier (one of only two held in Scotland) took place at SNEC on the 9th March and saw West Kype well represented. Regular competitors; Jenne Letham, Fraser Beattie, Meghan Ballantyne and Laura Mitchell all took part in the qualifier. In the warm up competition over 90cm Jenna Letham was placed 1st riding Hazel and Kirstyn Beattie second riding Misty Meg.

The qualifier was a very tightly fought competition and of a very high standard. From the first round, seventeen competitors made it through to the jump-off including Jenna on both Hazel and Sam, Fraser on Tornado and Meghan on Landlord. With four qualifying spots and ten rosettes up for grabs it was a case of all or nothing for all riders as each competitor went faster than the one before. However as we all know, as the times come down often the poles do too, but not for Jenna who had two superb rounds on both Hazel and Sam to finish 1st and 3rd respectively. Meghan posted the second fastest 4 faults to take the final 10th place rosette. The finals will take place at Moreton Morrell in Warwickshire on the 6th of April.

There was also success for one of our younger competitors, Thomas Young and Heather Belle won the earlier 70cm class and was placed 5th in the 80cm class. He was presented with a well deserved hot chocolate by his mum at the end of the day!