Equine Christmas Show

Brackenhursts' college-level Equine students organise Christmas Show

Winners of the Prelim 13 dressage competition

At the end of last term, the college-level Equine students enthusiastically threw themselves into planning, running and riding in their own Christmas show. The weather was challenging to say the least, with icy winds battering the eager competitors and their steadfast horses as they warmed up in the outdoor menage. NTU's Liz Taylor (Subject Leader for Level 3 Extended Diploma in Equine Management) entered into the festive spirit and donned angels' attire as she ushered the students into the Mary King Arena for their big moment. Friends and family also wore Santa hats and wrapped up warm as they packed into the viewing gallery to cheer the competitors on.

The first class was In-Hand Showing with Poppy Prince and George taking first prize after demonstrating a strong partnership and some beautiful forward-going in-hand work. Two Dressage tests followed - Intro B and Prelim 13 - with students riding a mixture of their own horses and Brackenhurst's home-owned. Ash Edwards riding Woody secured first place in the Intro B test, displaying some elegant precision movements including 10 and 20 metre circles. Paige Rouston Turner riding Bobby took first prize in the Prelim 13, showing off some beautifully balanced paces at medium and working trot, free walk on a long rein and working canter. To finish the afternoon off, a small jumping course (max height 2'6", max width 2') was built and the bell was duly rung! Charlotte Lowe riding Bannagh flew round the tight-turning course, winning first prize with the fastest clear of the afternoon.

Huge thanks to all staff for helping the students to organise their event, including the Christmas Elf (Sarah Tomlinson, Senior FE Lecturer) and Father Christmas (Gabbi Hawkins, FE Lecturer).