National Schools Equestrian Association (NSEA) Showjumping at Berkshire College of Agriculture

Since the start of term we have quickly recruited 5 riders to join the 2020/21 D’Overbroecks School Equestrian Team. So far the team consists of Helena Pryce, Georgia Ball, Bel Wilson (Team Captain) and Nell Needham from Lower 6th and Anouszka Dabrowa from Upper 6th.

The first NSEA event was on Sunday and Helena Pryce was the only rider able to compete. Georgia Ball unfortunately had to withdraw at the last minute as her horse picked up an injury in the field. Bel and Nou’s horses are both undergoing treatment but will be out competing again soon. Nell had a prior commitment.

Bel went along to support Helena and her stunning horse Lyra in the sunshine on Sunday and it was great to see D’Overbroecks represented in a very competitive field.

The showjumping course was a particular challenge as the arena at BCA is very small and Lyra (an Eventing specialist) has a big, rangy stride. Despite this, Helena rode a lovely round in the 95 cm and Lyra went beautifully clear in a really good time in a big, competitive class. The top ten were very close on time with not much separating the places and they came a very respectable 8th place.

An unlucky pole stopped Helena taking a rosette in her second class (105 cm) but it was good experience and preparation for representing the school again next weekend at an Eventing (Dressage, Cross Country and Showjumping) competition. Good luck Helena and Lyra.

If anyone has a horse or pony and is interested in joining the school team, please don’t hesitate to contact any of your teachers or email Bel Wilson.

Bel Wilson

September 2020