Opinion

The original aim of the Scope Festival was to provide a prestigious end-of-season championship show for senior, junior and young riders to enjoy together.

Riders often commented that they were too busy competing and had little time to socialise with owners and their families and a show like this provided that time.

During our 19 years at Stafford, we broke new ground providing outdoor surfaces and we met many challenges, the weather twice necessitating jumping continually through the night.

We took on board feedback from riders and sponsors, adding new championships and an international element.

After the loss of Stafford showground last year, we relocated to Oswestry and when they could not accommodate us this year, we had to move again to South View.

This meant considerably downsizing but, although ideally we need to include more senior classes, the new format has worked well and feedback has been very good.

Carry on regardless

Every year we try to get things right and we rely on constructive comments to help us do that.

At this show, a new indoor surface was put down, barn stables installed to combat any adverse weather and ample parking was arranged.

It has been nice to see so many regular competitors with us again and it has been particularly encouraging to see second and third generation riders coming on.

The standard of jumping has been excellent, and the social programme was a real hit with everyone.

Despite the loss of showgrounds, torrential rain and even hurricanes, we were always determined Scope would carry on and it is pleasing to have so much support and new sponsors wanting to come on board.

However, it has been disheartening to hear negative comment and criticism before the format of this show had even been published, particularly from people working for British Showjumping.

As for next year, we are good to go from 19-24 August.

Ref Horse & Hound; 30 August 2018

The week-long Alexander Horseboxes Scope Festival celebrates all that is great about showjumping — thrilling jump-offs, brilliant riders of all ages and some awesome equines. And, for those lucky enough to win a red rosette, a beautiful sash and the coveted rug, it’s then lap of honour time — hold on to your hats, these combinations are loving every minute of their moments in the spotlight!

1. No fear!

Claudia Moore and Tullineaskey Fear Deas go for a spin after 138cm glory

2. Golden wonder

Atiya Bussey and Ranchwood Latte scoop the Mandy Hall 1.15m Pony and celebrate in fine style on their lap of honour

3. Hands up if you’ve won!

Ella Hall is the most ecstatic rider at Scope after she and Calusa won the Cats and Pipes 138cm

4. Round of applause

Eloise Burden on Coolatooder Liath after success in the Graeme Ash Novice Masters

5. Perfectly poised

Demi Watson and her four-year-old winner Illonois I

6. Mini Milton

Glain Watkin Jones enjoys the lap of honour on My Gem Pearle, Graham Heath Equestrian Primary Handicap 138cm victors

7. Ribbons flying

Emma Slater and Kings of Leon take the Tacklocker 1m Novice

8. Motorbike!

Izabella Rogers feels the G-force as she whizzes round on Whinney Lass after victory in the Graham Heath Equestrian 128cm Primary

9. We have lift off

James Smith and Bolton Gate Ben head the 1.45m Big Tour

10. Giving Frankie Dettori a run for his money

Katie Bradburne certainly has the racing genes — she and Cappagh Misty land the HCC Contractors Tiny Tots

11. Blink and you’ll miss them!

Isabelle Ryder puts down the accelerator on Cuilin Dun after the POYS 5 and 6 year old Elite

12. Red ribbons

Nicole Lockhead Anderson and Gangnam Style II take the Squibb Group Dunglen 148cm

13. All smiles

Lesley Mitton on Heart of Savannah take the Buckaroo Saddlery Adventurer

14. Happy by name…

Another hat-trick on the cards for Paul Barker and Happy Boy

15. Faster, faster!

Noora Von Bulow riding Peppino II Grande, winners of the CGS Construction 128cm

16. We’re off!

Will Edwards and Candies B after victory in the Marnic Groundworks Young Riders Under 23 B&C

17. Don’t scratch the paintwork!

Grand prix winners Yazmin Davis and Zilverster II steer a very careful line past the rather nice set of wheels (Who parked there, we wonder?)

Don’t miss this week’s issue of Horse & Hound magazine (31 August 2017) for the full report from Scope Festival

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

You’ve won the class, you’ve collected the trophy, there’s only one thing left to do — it’s time to celebrate on your victory lap! The prize-givings at the Alexanders Horseboxes Scope Festival (UK) Supreme Championships are fantastic entertainment and we’ve picked out 17 worthy winners from last week’s show who really know how to rock that lap of honour in style

1. Giving Frankie Dettori a run for his money

Charlie Atkinson and Bunbury Conquest, Tiny Tots champions

2. All smiles

Harry Wood and Going Platinum, winners of the POYS seven-year-old elite title

3. Taking flight

Sophie Phillips and Valentino, who headed Supreme Novice Masters

4. “Let me go faster!”

Kallum Fletcher and Disco III, children-on-horses champions

5. It’s a pint-sized Frankel

Iwan Carpenter and Follow Jazzy Lady, winners of the POYS five- and six-year-old elite championship

6. Elegantly distinguished

Claire Williamson and Spring Fair, 85cm champions

7. In the red

Abigale Dorset and Dark Aurora, Bright Star victors

8. Rising to the occasion

Katie Benbow and Ruby St Loise, who headed the 95cm

9. Powering round

Louise Saywell and Feightling, ladies champions

10. Victory salute

Lily Freeman Attwood and My Bugsy Malone, 138cm primary winners

11. High five!

Rachel Proudley and Painted Lady IV, 128cm primary champions

12. Blink and you’ll miss them

Lily Smith and Holly VI, 138cm debut winners

13. Perfectly poised

Jessica Howard and Rocky Robin, adventurer victors

14. Desert Orchid eat your heart out

Faye Sutton and Robe Ruadh, 148cm champions

15. The need for speed

Sandy McLean and Warhol Wulfselection, under-16 title-holders

Like this? You might also enjoy reading these:

8 pint-sized ponies who think they’re Big Star

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16. Woah there!

Iwan Carpenter is back again, this time on Brookhall Glimpse, supreme 128cm victors

17. And finally… Morgan nails it!

Morgan Carpenter and Merllyns Mirage, winners of the 1.10m grand prix, show exactly how it should be done when it comes to rocking the lap of honour. Well done all!

Don’t miss the full report from Alexanders Horseboxes Scope Festival (UK) Supreme Championships in this week’s issue of Horse & Hound magazine (1 September 2016)

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

It never ceases to amaze us how much scope and agility the smallest ponies show over the coloured poles. If they were three or four hands higher, they’d be flying round 1.60m grand prix tracks with their eyes closed. We have simply fallen in love with some of these pint-sized ponies who starred at the Alexanders Horseboxes Scope Festival (UK) Supreme Championships last week — all of whom secretly think their name might be Big Star

1. Mini Milton

Brookhall Glimpse simply pings round the sizeable fences with Iwan Carpenter to earn the title of 128cm champions

2. Big Star’s not a patch on me

Painted Lady IV has more than a spring in her step as she scurries round en route to become 128cm primary champion with Rachel Proudley.

3. Where’s the next fence?

Holly VI hurdles this vertical with ears pricked and relishing every challenge thrown at her in the 138cm debut championship, which she won with Scope debutante Lily Smith

4. Point those toes!

Little Bunbury Conquest clears the fences impeccably neatly with Charlie Atkinson, on their way to a stylish victory in the Tiny Tots

5. No scope, no hope

Follow Jazzy Lady just wants to jump higher and higher for Iwan Carpenter and they head the POYS five- and six-year-old elite championship

6. Just call me Cassionato…

Rocky Robin sprouts wings to soar over every fence to win the Peace Love World adventurer title with Jessica Howard

7. When I grow up I want to be…

Mini Mouse II looks rocket-fuelled en route to Cats & Pipes 128cm debut glory with Ellie Burrell Squibb

8. Don’t look down!

The one and only My Bugsy Malone, just 138cm, hits dizzying heights with Lily Freeman Attwood to take the primary title

Don’t miss the full report from Alexanders Horseboxes Scope Festival (UK) Supreme Championships in today’s issue of Horse & Hound (1 September 2016)

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The showjumping world descended on Stafford County showground for the annual Scope Festival of Showjumping (23-30 August).

Every year at Scope champions at every level, from young riders on tiny ponies up to adults contesting the prestigous grand prix, are crowned.

Here we celebrate the winners:

Matthew Sampson triumphs in the Alexander Horseboxes 1.45m Big Tour

Hollie Pearce wins riding Hilarius

Emma Slater tops the Buckaroo Saddlery (UK) Supreme Adventurer Championship Kim Barzilay’s Kimba Flamenco

Jodie Hall-McAteer and Colette HBC collect the honours in the Geroge Babes (UK) Supreme Young Riders B&C Championship

Graham Heath Construction (UK) Supreme Primary Championship 128cm Ponies victors Madison Heath and Red Alert III

Emelia Mitchell and Jane Gibson’s Little Miss Ebony scoop the Graham Heath Construction (UK) Supreme Primary Championship 138cm Ponies

All smiles — Alex Mchattie scoops the Great Coffee (UK) Supreme Children on Horses Championship aboard Sonata Beryl’s Haslam

Jessica Hewitt and Ammanvally Santion are victorious

Emma Crawford and Stars Surprise celebrate their win

Back in the winners’ enclosure — Olivia Poole and Pauldarys Bobbys Girl top the Netley Hall Equestrian (UK) Supreme Pony Progressive Novice Prelim

Olivia Poole and Pauldarys Bobbys Girl take the Peace Love world (UK) Supreme Pony Adventurer Championship

Julia Helms triumphs in the Panda Bamboo Flooring 95cm

Winners of the Sports Horse Classic (UK) Supreme Blue Riband Championship — Claire Shepherd El Diablo Grande

Jodie Hall-McAteer and Lea Du Genier following their win in the Squibb Group Dunglenn 148cm (UK) Supreme Championship

Emilie Wright and Billy Two Rivers enjoy their lap of the Pure Feed Company (UK) Supreme Tiny Tots Championship

Geoff Luckett and Canant celebrate their win in the Wetherby Skip Hire 1.35m Medium Tour & Alexander Horseboxes 1.45m Big Tour

www.horsesolarium.co.uk (UK) Supreme four-year-old championship victors Galerius ridden by Pippa Allen

Nicola Wright and Galtee Voilet top the www.tacklockers.com (UK) Supreme 1m Novice Championship

Tegen Noy and Watts Joy scoop the www.oldschoolbamburgh.co.uk (UK) Supreme Novice Masters

Championship

Wednesday 26 August

Charlie Dawson rides Kerry Dawson’s TJM Henry De Reve to David Hopkinson (UK) Supreme Under-21 Championship victory

Charlotte Hall and Calusa enjoy their lap of honour after winning the Cats & Pipes (UK) Supreme Championship 128cm Ponies

Winners of the Safeway Scaffolding Ltd. (UK) Supreme Senior Rider Championship — Derek Morton celebrates aboard Dawn Mincher’s Zagy

Young Emilie Wright tops the Cats & Pipes (UK) Supreme Championship 128cm Ponies with Elizabeth Leak’s Billy Two Rivers

No fool — Katie Shaw and Fools Business, owned by Emma Sargeant, take the honours in Smarter Training Group 1.15m (UK) Supreme Championship

Tuesday 25 August

Emma Stoker scoops the £2,000 prize-fund in the West Coast Express (UK) Supreme Ladies Championship riding Bob Young’s Townhead Tallulah V

Emma Freeman Attwood’s pony My Bugsy Malone takes an interest in their glittering trophy after winning the Waddesdon Stud (UK) Supreme 138cm Championship

Geoff Billington and his own Elo triumph in the Bilton Ward Developments (UK) Supreme Gentlemen’s Championship

Fresh from her Pony European team appearance Jodie Hall McAteer claims the Graham Heath Construction (UK) Supreme Under-16 Championship riding Stacey Webb’s Colette HBC

Hannah Barker storms to victory in the Animo (UK) Supreme 128cm Championship aboard Ian Barker’s Ballybur Oh Jessie

Pictures by Graham Loader

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Pictures courtesy of Graham Loader www.blue-print-studios.co.uk

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Always a force to be reckoned with, Louise Saywell is having one of her most successful seasons yet.

Just one month into her partnership with Susan Platt’s Ardenteggle Poltarf, the Nottinghamshire-based rider produced a brilliant final effort to claim the Halsall Electrical National grade C title.

“Normally we just meet up with her at shows, but before Scope I had her at home for a month. She is a nice genuine mare, quite sensitive, but I think she has a lot more to give.

“This was a fast jump off, but I wanted to win. She is careful, and I can let her run to a fence, so I would rather have gone for it than played safe,” said Louise, 22.

Born into a family steeped in equestrianism — her mother Vicky competed, and father Mick rode at the Munich Olympics, it is hardly surprising Louise and her brother Andrew have both been successful riders all through ponies and into senior ranks.

“I couldn’t wait to leave school and work with the horses from dawn until dusk,” said Louise, who also mixes riding with some teaching, and going to the gym for “relaxation and a change of scenery”.

Louise, whose thirst for knowledge was quenched still further when she spent two years in Holland at the yard of Vincent Voorn, rides everything from four-year-olds to established horses at home in Retford, and mixes their routine with schooling and riding out.

“I think road work is good for horses fitness and legs, so we like to do plenty hacking,” said Louise, whose European medal haul includes pony 2005 individual gold and team silver, 2006 individual bronze, and junior 2008 team gold and individual bronze.

In addition to her grade C win with Ardenteggle Poltarf, Louise also gained additional places at Scope, and she has qualified three horses for five championships at this year’s Horse of the Year Show.

Scope Festival results – Saturday 1 September

Tacklockers.com National pony British novice championship. 1, T Rifle (W Walker); 2, Mr Billy Joe (D Lane); 3, Prince Pearl II (J Roberts). Autostop Adventurer championship. 1, Venus UK (C Foreman); 2, Gitta (A Bratt); 3, Custinov (C Foreman). Halsall Electrical National grade C championship. 1, Ardenteggle Poltarf (L Saywell); 2, Lux Fabulous (P Barker); 3, Rubiroso JX (K Shore). Shaw Farm Stud National tiny tots championship. 1, Forever Penny (M Deakin); 2, Coco Can (H Bishop); 3, Martlets Masters Madam (E Mitchell). Great Coffee Dunglenn 148cm championship. 1, Razorlite II (J Mendoza); 2, Enzo III (D Ward); 3, Wizard VIII (E Ward). Bilton Ward Developments midget & mighty masters relay. 1, Ballindooly Queen (T Ward) & Cassi Go (D Ward); 2, Magic Trick (G Lovegrove) & Jerome II (E Lovegrove); 3, Mitchel Troy Welsh Express (E Crawford) & Temple Ryefield (P Barker). Montse Benitez Foundation British showjumping National Championship. 1, Special Lux (A Condon); 2, Zanzibar (E Whitaker); 3, Stranger (K Shore). Cats & Pipes pairs challenge. 1, All Rise (K Grimster) & Just Jasper (E Eynon); 2, Obelix Z (L Whiteway) & Temple Ryefield (P Barker); 3, Sat On A Star (S Pountain) & First Musical (R Barton. Jubilee & Dunglenn 148cm consolation 1, Dantes Ghost (Y Whiteside);2, WSH Ryehill Dixie (N Mitchell); 3, Mosstown Ralph (R Mason). BS Business Partnership National 6yo championship. 1, Lucy Loo IV (S Price); 2, Basic (P Miller); 3, Bart VI (E Stoker). National Team jumping championship. 1, Suffolk Saints (Area 12); 2, Essex (Area 40); 3, Derby (Area 21). Independent Asset Management pony progressive consolation. 1, Crystal Chandelier (S Colson); 2, Ronald XII (M Wright); 3, Llettycrudd Cardi Bach (M Argo). Graham Heath Construction primary consolation. 1, Little Meg (J Woodward); 2, Pablo IX (B McCrory); 3, Tita II (G Blakemore). Tacklockers National pony British novice consolation. 1, Moyralla Bay (H Thubron); 2, Appache Brave (J Ingham); 3, Kristena (R Horner). Shaw Farm Stud tiny tots consolation. 1eq, Kitty (L Freeman-Attwood) Bowdenfarm Tiger Lilly (O Fletcher); 3, Ninfield Discovery (R Woodward). Autostop adventurer consolation. 1, Carel Cruise (A Hudson-Smith); 2, The Smirnoff Iceman (J Saunders); 3, Columbcille Colleen (J Watson). Smarter Training Group National 1.15m consolation. 1, Carel Cruise; 2, Penny Market (J Saunders); 3, Simply Billie Bunter (E Slater). HOYS 128cm qualifier. 1eq, Tatty Desire(S McLean), Top Gun XI (G Taylor-Jones) & Barnee Rubble IV (J Whitaker).

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After notching up some good places at the Scope Festival last year, Laura Robinson clinched her first title, when Cree Cruiser produced a brilliant double clear round to win the Mitchell Moor Equestrian under 18 championship.

“This was quite a technical course, with plenty of twists and turns in the jump off, but he has a massive stride and covers the ground well, and he is pretty agile on his turns. As we were early to go in the jump off, we had to go for it,” explained Laura, 17.

Laura has enjoyed a successful four-year-partnership with Cree Cruiser who has helped the Yorkshire rider make a successful transition into senior ranks.

After looking extensively at home and abroard for a suitable horse for a young rider, Laura’s father Neil asked Cree Cruiser’s former owner John Aird if they could try him.

“Dad had competed against him (Cree Cruiser) when Alex Barr had the ride, and always thought he looked a really straightforward horse. As soon as I got on him, we clicked straight away,” explained Laura, who has only fallen off Cree Cruiser once when he slipped up at a water jump.

“He’s quite strong, but for such a big horse (17.1hh) he rides very light and well mannered,” added Laura.

As the Northallerton based rider is still in full-time education, riding and competing have to fit in around studying. While the horses are looked after by a groom, Laura rides at least two every day.

“We give everything a day off after a show, and then mix hacking and flatwork in the school or cantering across the fields to keep them fit. He’s not a fussy eater, and is usually the perfect gentleman, although he is a bit sensitive around his ears,” said Laura, who is a huge fan of the Scope Festival.

“It is one of my favourite shows. I love the atmosphere here and can remember finishing 10th in the tiny tots on my first visit here”.

Scope Festival Friday results

Independent Asset Management pony progressive championship 1eq, Ballyvellon Smooth Move (C Whinnett) & Ballybaloo (J Lunn); 3, Lahinch Katie (J Lunn). Mandy Hall National pony 1.15m members cup championship 1, Cisco Bay II (F Adams); 2, Unorthodox Blue (M Allen); 3, Bramblebrough Alan (D Watson). Mitchell Moor Equestrian under 18 championship. 1, Cree Cruiser (L Robinson); 2, Cornelius 27 (J Saywell); 3, Bonfire III (M Allen). George Babes young riders B&C championship. 1, Stakkato De Fee (R Howley); 2, Classic Highfly (J Mendoza); 3, Little Luidam (E Popely). The Old School Bamburgh National 128cm championship. 1, Dykebeck Wild Hazelnut (C Warde-Aldam); 2, My Little Sweetheart (J Hall-McAteer); 3, Tynebank Royal Jubilee (C McHattie). Jane Pownall National 138cm championship 1, Alfie III (G Babes); 2, Mr Jack Sparrow (K Taylor); 3, The Jacaloupe (O Poole). Sport Horse Classic Blue Riband championship 1, It’s Delux (R Walker); 2, Townhead Tallulah V (C Curtis); 3, Balou III (D Charles). BS National championship prelim. 1, Camiro De Haar Z (R Howley); 2, Step In Time III (S Price); 3, Emilla Van Het Scheefkasteel (R Howley). 1.30m/7yo/grade B consolation. 1, Sorento 5 (J Smith); 2, Vicaros (D Hughes); 3, Ulriqua II (A James). Mandy Hall pony 1.15m mc consolation. 1, Gearran Tire (H Hatteea); 2, Sprite III (S Holmes); 3, Irish Flash Harry (C Pyke-Jones). Autostop adventurer prelim. 1, McCormacks Stitch (M Fursedonn); 2, Zagrande (C Slater); 3, Kimba Rock (E Slater). Shaw Farm Stud National tiny tots prelim. 1, Just Dandy (T Jordan-Jones); 2, Little Twister (I Carpenter; 3, Tisrara Snowy (M Murphy). Katherine James 1.0m consolation. 1, Carlos VI (A Brown); 2, Dreamtime Concerto (A Hollinshead); 3, Zavanta (K Jackson). 4yo consolation. 1, Quinaldo (J Hardy); 2eq, Dangerfield (C West) & Ricashey (A Barr). Equiport National 5yo consolation. 1, Cecilo J.E (A Taylor); 2, Bally Cruising On (L Humphrey); 3, Enzo V (A Barr). Sports Horse Classic consolation. 1, Hey Boy (J Hardy); 2, Alonso N (K Willard); 3, Escapa Va (J Pyke). Sports Horse Classic Blue Riband prelim. 1, Steady The Helm (T Page); 2, Contessa Van De Zuuthoeve (E Slater); 3, Senator CC Catch (M Lucas). BS Business Partnership 6yo prelim. 1, Smirnov (P Spivey) 2, Remi Cavalleri (M Boddy); 3, Boa (A Thompson). Thermohomes Europe National 1.30m championship. 1, Elite K (R Howley); 2, Zegreanne Z (K Shore); 3, Univeau (P Miller).

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Kerry Grimster made full use of her late draw to win the National 1.15m championship riding All Rise at the Scope Festival yesterday (30 August).

Kerry, 26 who along with her mother Penny runs a yard near Windsor has been a consistent winner at Scope from her pony days.

British bred by Pat Crann, All Rise is an 11-year-old by The Aviator, and Penny bought her just backed from John Whinnett for Kerry to have some fun with.

From the start, Kerry had high hopes for All Rise.

“She is fairly uncomplicated, snaffle mouth, and low maintenance. She likes plenty of siesta time until she goes into the ring, and then she lights up,” she said.

“We don’t jump her at home and mix flat work with hacking through Windsor Great Park to keep her fit.

“Like any typical chestnut mare, she can be grumpy at times, and she might not be very big (15.2hh) but the stride came with the jump, and she is a real winner,” concluded Kerry, who is Horse of the Year Show bound with All Rise for the amateur 1.20m classic championship in October.

Results

Katherine James British novice prelim. – 1, Rhodanites Rowenberry (M Thompson); 2, Trivia (K Grimster); 3, Bentley III (K Pullen). Tacklockers.com National pony British novice prelim. – 1, Miss Magestic Meg (C Hughes); 2, Itzy Bitzy III (A Donnelly); 3, Glebepark Riverdance (R Mason). Graham Heat Construction National 128cm primary championship. – 1, Madonna (S McLean); 2, Red Alert III (B Heath); 3, Peppino Il Grande (D Deakin). do 138cm championship. – 1, Dycott Masterman (F Adams); 2, Shaman (L Carver); 3, Barney (J Gann). Peace, Love, World pony adventurer championship. – 1, Lahinch Katie (J Lunn); 2, Unorthodox Blue (M Allen); 3, Brynskill Penny (J Palmer-Evans). Katherine James 1.0m novice championship. – 1 Ziezo (A Morton); 2, Robbie VI (J Spiller); 3, Cassiana (E Doig). Elite Stallions National 4yo championship. – 1, S Middleton’s Dartbreaker; 2,S Barnes’s Money Moon; 3, P Strafford’s D Hollinwoods Rusty Ryan (A Condon). Hopkinson under 21 championship. – 1,Wellington M (K Brennan); 2, Satonamillion (Z Adams); 3, Beckham IV (R Connor). Smarter Training Group National 1.15m championship. – 1, All Rise (K Grimster); 2, Fools Business (E Sargeant); 3, Stateside (C De Verteuil). Pegasus Stud National 7yo championship. – 1, Alure III (T Davies); 2, Virginia 188 (P Spivey); 3, Asterix EZ (R Whitaker). Halsall Electrical National grade B championship. – 1, Trevoulter Lady Utah (H Webster); 2, Steady The Helm (T Page); 3, Topflight True Carlo (M Thompson). BS Business Partnership National 6yo championship. – 1eq, 15 shared. Mandy Hall National pony 1.15m mc prelim. – 1, Parkmore Cassanova (R Skyrme); 2, Destavelars Misty (C Dawson); 3, Wizard VIII (E Ward). Jane Pownall National 128cm prelim. – 1, The Jacaloupe (O Poole); 2, Grey Palace (P Locke); 3, In The Dark (M Carpenter). Peace, Love, World adventurer consolation. – 1, Merddog Mark (C Skelton); 2, Appache Brave (J Ingham); 3, The Artful Dodger (Z Gresswell). Pink Equine stepping stones consolation. – 1, Westhill Pocket Money (S Walker); 2, Escomb April (J Leigh-Beckham); 3, Ninfield Discovery (R Woodward). Independent Asset Management pony progressive prelim. – 1, Buddy Budweiser (L Fenn); 2, Cuffesgrange Little Ric (J Ingham); 3, Ballyvellon Smooth Move (C Whinnett). Autostop adventurer prelim. – 1, Guess What II (R Nichol); 2, McCormacks Stitch (M Fursedonn); 3, Back To Black II (L Humphrey). Netley Hall Equestrian Centre pony Discovery consolation. – 1, Ryehill Honey Rider (S Wells); 2, Amber Minor (K Taylor); 3, Ardenteggle Might (B McCrory).

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As torrential rain closed some of the outside rings at Stafford showground and some competitors prepared to jump through the night again at the Scope Festival (also happened 2009), Bryony Ward celebrated her second win of the week riding Rowan Willis and Samantha Gibbins’s Hai Que Fabulosa (Bella).

After winning the British novice championship at Bingley Hall two days earlier, Hai Que Fabulosa produced two stunning rounds to clinch the coveted Equiport five-year-old title on Wednesday.

“This is by far the biggest track we have ever attempted. The first round looked massive and I was happy to have cleared the first few fences,” said Bryony, who was given the Utah mare to break a year ago when no-one got on with her.

“She was a typical chestnut mare who would bite and kick, and she was very cold backed at first.”

Bryony spent two weeks on a one-to-one basis just lunging, long reining and getting to know the mare.

“I then put the saddle on, leaned over her back and away she went,” explained Bryony.

Bryony’s mother Hayley owns Liscombe Park Equestrian Centre, near Leighton Buzzard, and works full time riding, breaking, selling and doing some private teaching.

“I like to vary horses’ routine and tend to concentrate on ground work only at home,” added Bryony. “Bella enjoys a mixture of hacking and lots of turnout.

She can be a bit quirky, and tends to buck a lot when she’s on form, but it’s high spirits not naughtiness. She’s out of a pony mare so we have to watch her feed as she soon puts weight on.”

Bella suffers from sensitive feet, which initially proved quite a test for the farrier.

“We have found glue on front shoes work best and she isn’t shod behind,” said Bryony, who first competed Bella at Hickstead last year. “I substituted Bella for an injured four-year-old I had entered and she jumped a class a day for just two fences down all week.”

She concluded: “Although she really loves competing, I didn’t expect two wins here.”

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Nicole Pavitt is in flying form at Scope, securing a brilliant win in the Horse & Hound Foxhunter Masters riding her mother Sandra’s Festiena Van Texelhof (Bentley).

“As she tends to rise to the occasion, she much prefers a jump-off and was really on song tonight,” said Nicole, who has produced the Bentley Van De Heffinck seven-year-old through the grades.

“She didn’t make her reserve at the Brightwell High Performance Sales (Addington) as a three-year-old, so her owner Koen De Waele, whose father Joe bred her, asked me to take her on,” she explained.

After backing Bentley, Nicole soon recognised her potential and the Pavitt family bought her.

“She always had a lovely attitude and she rode away as nice as you please. When we started jumping her, she was way over the top and jumped everything too big at first, but she soon settled down. We have brought her on slowly and are delighted with her progress,” added Nicole.

The 24-year-old has a simple keep-fit routine at home in Copthorne, West Sussex.

“I have eighteen horses to ride and muck out, so that keeps me on my toes”

While Festiena Van Texelhof is a joy to ride in the ring, she does have her quirks.

“She hates having her ears touched, and we do have to be careful fastening the girth on the saddle and belly straps on rugs. I can get on her without any problem once, but I wouldn’t be getting off to open gates out hacking on my own,” admitted Nicole.

“Bentley is a very good doer and easily puts on weight, so we have to be careful with her feed. Workwise we do plenty of flat work to keep her fit and balanced, and she is turned out for a few hours a day to keep her relaxed” concluded Nicole, who first rode at the Scope Festival in the 10 years and under class, and won her first championship aged 14 , when My Gizmo triumphed in the 138cm Primary at Bingley Hall.

Scope Festival results

Shaw Farm Stud National tiny tots.-1 & 2, Coco Can & Tiger Tim (H Bishop); 3, Whinney Lass (A Aitken). Equiport National 5yo prelim.-1eq, 44 shared. BS National championship prelim.-1, Billy Grand (D Moseley); 2, Caritiar Z (P Miller); 3, Diaghilev (A Edwards). Whittaker Coachbuilders National snr riders.-1, Valentino XIV (N Proffitt); 2, Floryy (R Tillson); 3, Alexander II (A Barry). Blue Chip Feed Balancer pony newcomer masters.-1, Prospect Eddie (E Ward); 2 & 3, Another Twisted & Minison (R Hegarty). Horse & Hound Foxhunter masters.-1, Festiena Van Texelhof (N Pavitt); 2, Fleur IV (J Burgess); 3, Anyway II (R Whitaker). Sports Horse Classic Blue Riband prelim.-1, Mr Business (E Eynon); 2, Zamiro (J Lye); 3, Chesterfield Z (A Edwards). Graham Heath Construction National under 16 prelim.-1, Twilight Van Het Rietven (C Dawson); 2, Uragan O.I (W Fletcher); 3, Cast No Shadow (D Ward). Thermohomes Europe National 1.30m prelim.-1, Temple Ryefield (P Barker); 2, Satonamillion (Z Adams); 3, Vilka B (A Squires). Geoffrey Robinson Jubilee open pony prelim.-1eq, Ilar Max & Dafina K (E Ward) & Destavelars Misty (C Dawson). Independent Asset Management pony progressive prelim.-1, Charlie Boy II (A Pritchard); 2, Bay Friend (S Selby); 3, Rockfield Smoke Leo (M Poskitt). Graham Heath Construction National primary prelim.-1, The Jacaloupe (O Poole); 2, Midsummer Magic (K Waldock-Smith); 3, Alfie III (G Babes). Elite Stallions National 4yo prelim.-1, D Hollinwood Rusty Ryan (A Condo); 2, True Blue III (J Botham); 3, Zurichs White Gold (Z Adams). Smarter Training Group National 1.15m prelim.-1, Clio V (J Punter); 2, It’ll Be Me (K Shaw); 3, Marinello (E Slater).

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After finishing second in the pony Discovery championship at Scope Festival last year, Demi Watson was not to be denied this time, and she conjured a superb round from Bramblebrough Alan to finish 2secs ahead of Harriet Locke (Little Jimmey) and Romilly Simmons (Dingle Julie).

After being tipped off about her winning partner by friends, Demi, 16, who is in her final pony year, went to see the Irish-bred Bramblebrough Alan two years ago, but it was hardly love at first sight.

“He was quite a raw four-year-old and we bought him mainly as a project to bring on. At first I found him quite sharp, and he couldn’t canter properly, so to get him more balanced, we spend a lot of time on flat work. Now he has really settled down, is snaffle mouth and he is the easiest pony to ride,” explained Demi.

As Demi is still in full time education, her ponies have to fit in around school.

“Luckily, school isn’t too far away. Mum (Nicola) does the ponies in the morning, and I ride every day when I come home. He (Bramblebrough Alan) doesn’t need any schooling, and we never jump him at home.

“He can be a fussy eater, and prefers mix with all his feeds, but hand fed carrots are off the menu, as he once mistook my finger for one,” said Demi, who also manages to fit in playing netball for a local (Wolverhampton) team, and running up to six miles.

“Running helps me to relax and keep me fit — friends call me Duracelle because I never run out of energy,” added Demi who has competed at Scope throughout her pony years.

“I have had plenty of places before now, but this is my first win. We still have more classes to do, but whatever happens now, my last Scope on ponies has finished on a high with a championship win,” said Demi.

Scope Festival results

Equibox British novice warm up. 1, Trivia (K Grimster); 2, Zambezi IV (C De Verteiul); 3, Rocko VIII (S Oliver). Halsall Electrical National grade B prelim. 1, Gucciland (O Gent); 2, Rubiroso JX (K Shore); 3, Dougie Douglas (H Gillot). KBIS Insurance National senior British novice championship. 1, Hay Que Fabulosa (B Ward); 2, Skerne Scipio (D Morton); 3, Apache Springtime (L Poole). HBF Equestrian 1.30m classic prelim. 1, Wavanta (A Thompson); 2, Zilfa Heleen (J Wingrove); 3, VIP III (P Scott). Netley Hall Equestrian Centre pony Discovery. 1, Bramblebrough Alan (D Watson); 2, Little Jimmey (H Locke); 3, Dingle Julie (R Simmons). Squibb Demolition pony Foxhunter Masters. 1, King Mac (E Ward); 2, Cisco Bay II (F Adams); 3, Minison (R Hegarty. Animo UK Children on horses championship. 1, Osaka Des Quarts (K Deakin); 2, Conquistador II (J Saywell); 3, Black Cat (J Whitaker). Equestrian Clearance.com newcomer masters. 1, Zeppeling (N Pavitt); 2, Anyway II (R Whitaker); 3, Foxglade Little Lady (A Bradstock). Graham Heath Construction National under 16 prelim. 1, Twilight Van Het Rietven (C Dawson); 2 & 3, Valentinas Tilia & Under Cover 3 (G Babes). Hopkinson National under 21/Mitchel Moor Equestrian under 1 prelim. 1, Wellington M (K Brennan); 2, Spirit VIII (T Wilks); 3, Vilka B (A Squires). Addington Manor talent seekers inc Pegasus Stud National 7yo prelim. 1, Lord Of Arabia (J Whitaker); 2, Dougie Douglas (H Gillot); 3, Festiena Van Texelhof (N Pavitt). Peace, Love, World pony adventurer prelim. 1, Park Mr Smart (L Jones); 2, Apache Soulja Boy (P Wilman); 3, Adams Fancy (V Welch). Katherine James 1.0m novice prelim. 1, Hambrooke’s 1st Lady (J Randall); 2, Royal Rowan (A Trickett); 3, Calvin IV (C Foreman). Pink Equine stepping stones prelim. 1, Tazmania II (H Barker); 2, Just Dandy (T Jones); 3, Rockingstone Maise Mouse (M Maguire). Tacklockers.com National pony British novice prelim. 1, Another Lady II (D Rogan); 2, Cranberry Twist (I Allen); 3, Vinnigan Finnigan (M Cronk). Mandy Hall National pony 1.15m members cup prelim. 1, Park Mr Smart (L Jones); 2, Frankies Ace (D Hughes); 3, Minison (R Hegarty). Graham Heath Construction National primary prelim. 1, Peppino Il Grande (D Deakin); 2 & 3, Madonna & Tatty Desire (A McLean).

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Kerry Brennan and Vermillion II were the first champions to be crowned in Bingley Hall at the 2012 Plevin British Showjumping Scope Festival. The pair produced a flying round to finish ahead of Derek Morton (Skerne Scipio) and Kerry’s mother Liane Smith (Arnoud) the Tri-Zone Air-Lite Discovery final.

Tell us about your Discovery winner Vermillion:

“Vermillion is a six-year-old by Verdi. Michael Wharmby bought her as a yearling, and I started riding her as a four-year-old. She was pretty unruly at first and it took six months to get her balanced and going nicely. She is a typical mare, and can get quite hormonal at times.”

What was it like riding against your mother and then beating her?

“I like to win, so I’m always trying my best. Both of the important turns in the jump off were on Vermillion’s bad rein, and towards the second fence, she first veered away, and then cut back in, and I thought yes — our luck is in — we could win this. “

Are you superstitious when competing?

“Yes, I like to wear something I consider to be lucky, and at the moment it is a new jacket I bought from the Blue Chip championships. It seems to be working!”

Results

August 26: Equibox pony newcomer/Foxhunter warm up 1 & 2, The Third Pearl & Destavelars Misty (C Dawson); 3, Prospect Eddie (E Ward). Equibox Discover warm up 1, Tantrum II (E Slater); 2, Hay Que Fabulosa (B Ward); 3, Guess What II (R Nichol). Animo UK children on horses prelim. 1, Conquistador II (J Saywell); 2, Black Cat (J Whitaker); 3, Valentinas Tilia (G Babes). Equibox snr newcomer/Foxhunter warm up. 1, Zeppeling (N Pavitt); 2, Top Rock (J Crippen); 3, Ashdale Senica (R Barton). Tri-Zone Air-Lite Discovery championship. 1, Vermillion II (K Brennan); 2, Skerne Scipio (D Morton); 3, Arnoud (L Smith). Thermohomes Europe National 1.30m prelim. 1, Zegreanne Z (K Shore); 2, Wellington M (K Brennan); 3, Wesselton M (G Whitaker). The Old School Bamburgh National 128cm prelim. 1, My Little Sweetheart; 2, Peppino Il Grande (D Deakin); 3, Spring Disney (J Hall-McAteer). Equiport National 5yo championship prelim. 1eq, 17 shared. George Babes young rider B&C prelim. 1 & 3, Mary T & Zeb (J Smith); 2, Wesselton M (G Whitaker). Smarter Training Group National 1.15m prelim. 1, Obelix Z (L Whiteway); 2 Tubbercurry Lass (G Slater); 3, Fools Business (E Sargeant). Geoffrey Robinson Jubilee open pony prelim. 1, Cinderella Girl (B Vernon); 2, Robe Duster (T Jones); 3, Frere Jacques (A Inglis). Whittaker Coachbuilders National senior riders prelim. 1, Keep Talking (D Morton); 2, Rutkilly (G Goodwin); 3, Townhead Rayani (M Mac). Netley Hall Equestrian Centre pony Discovery prelim. 1, Marshways Perfect Puzzle (E Sanderson); 2, Brambleborough Alan (D Watson); 3, Honey III (S Hillier). Pink Equine stepping stones prelim 1, Just Dandy (T Jordan-Jones); 2, Rahanane Lady (H Wood); 3, Tiger Tim (H Bishop).

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Competitors in the national six-year-old qualifier at the Welsh Masters have forgone their qualification for the national final at the British Showjumping Scope Festival in September after refusing to jump in the final round.

The riders of all 19 horses that had each jumped double clears on the grass Castle Arena decided to withdraw from the third and final round due to the ground conditions.

In order to qualify for the Scope final, where the top 18 go forward to the six-year-old class at Horse of the Year Show, horses must have achieved a treble clear.

“The show had made a superb effort with the ground, but the weather was against them,” said Shirley Light, owner of Louise Pavitt’s ride Sussex Caretino, “It was not in the best interests of the horses to jump in the third round.”

Course-designer Steve Williams moved fences several times during the 71-strong class to make the most of the ground.

“All six single fences for round three were re-sited on fresh ground and were not gut-busters — the biggest stood at 1.30m,” said Steve.

Despite the show’s best efforts, the riders chose not to jump, leaving their horses unqualified. Riders and owners had hoped that the adverse weather on this occasion would be considered favourably by BS, but have had their hopes dashed. They have written a letter asking BS to reconsider their decision.

“They did all they could in the circumstances,” said producer Philip Spivey. “My horse jumped 15 efforts in round one, including the water, and after jumping well in the warm-up and over fence one in the ring, he then lost all his jump — he’d done enough.

“Common sense prevailed with the riders, and I believe common sense should prevail as regards to the qualification.”

BS chief executive Iain Graham said: “The jumps had been moved on to fresh ground to ensure as good going as possible. Our officials were satisfied the ground conditions were suitable for jumping so we are not going to amend the qualifying criteria for that class.”

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It was a Whitaker one–two after the final rounds of the Cushionbed British Showjumping Scope Festival 2011 had been jumped, as Louise Whitaker riding Mandy Hall’s Dazzle pipped her father John and Catwalk in the Cushionbed National championship.

Eight came through to the third round where Louise set a blistering pace. “I know she (Dazzle) is quick in the air and across the ground so we went for it,” said Louise.

John made a spirited challenge but the eight-year-old Catwalk could not match Dazzle’s pace. “For once I don’t mind being second. Even if I had ridden this course 10 more times, I don’t think I could have caught Louise,” said John.

Emma Slater proved unbeatable in the Thermohomes Europe adventurer. Having taken an early lead with Contessa Van De Zuuthoeve, Emma also clinched second place with late drawn Ace Pilot.

“I have only been riding her for a couple of months, but she simply flew,” said Emma of her winning ride.

The new partnership of Chris Smith and Wiseboy clinched the grade B championship. Chris took over the ride on Wiseboy just a few weeks ago while regular jockey Keith Shore was competing in France.

“Wiseboy deserved a good win as he’s jumped lots of clears this week,” said Chris.

Darby Ward gained her third championship of the week when Wischin Chin M won the coveted Dunglenn 148cm championship. Like the gents final on Wednesday, this class was won on four faults, Darby’s pony lowering the final rail in a fast time.

“We had to go for it and make the others chase us, and it worked,” said Darby, 15.

The tiny tots again attracted lots of vocal support, and it was Megan Taylor and Nats Lass who found the shortest route to win.

“I made my mind up on a planned route, and stuck to it in the jump off,” said Megan.

Riders in the midget & mighty pairs relay were also roared on, Charlie Dawson (Marthas Darling) and Laura Robinson (Cree Cruiser) posting the fastest time.

Leicestershire rider Charlie Hughes 13 claimed the National pony British novice championship riding Granby Majesta. This was yet another pony finale where early double clears became progressively faster, and Charlie took the lead at the half way stage and held on to it.

Results: Saturday 3 September

National pony British novice. – 1, Granby Majesta (C Hughes); 2, Buddy Budweiser (L Fenn); 3, Monkey Munchkin (P Palk). Thermohomes Europe Adventurer. – 1 & 2, Contessa Van T Vijvershof (E Slater); 3, Zagy (D Morton). Halsall Electrical National grade B.– 1, Wiseboy (C Smith); 2, Vero (K Rose); 3, Veroniek II (R Oliver). Marsh National six-year-old.– 1, HFS Valentino (S Buckley); 2, Simply BE II (A Condon); 3, Lupicos (L Pavitt). Shaw Farm Stud tiny tots.– 1, Nats Lass (M Taylor); 2, Kitty (L Freeman-Attwood); 3, Cappagh Misty (M Stanley). Dunglenn 148cm. – 1, Wischin Chin M (D Ward); 2, Amilie JR Z (A Chitty); 3, Salvador IV (L Robinson). Bilton Ward Developments midget & mighty masters relay. – 1, Marthas Darling (C Dawson) & Cree Cruiser (L Robinson); 2, Ashes Cool Dude (A Taylor) & Wilando B (E Stoker); 3, Try To Hit Me (G Babes) & Top Limit (S Hutton). Cushionbed National championship.– 1, Dazzle (L Whitaker); 2, Catwalk (J Whitaker); 3, Hllo Unique (T Fletcher). National Team championship.– 1, Area 21 (Derbyshire); 2, Area 15A (East Yorkshire); 3, Area 36 (Cardigan).

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As the weather hotted up outside, the temperature also went up a few degrees inside Bingley Hall, as riders locked horns for another eight championships.

Heading the largest final of the day was Irish rider Tom Hearne who claimed the coveted National Milton five-year-old championship riding Bintang II.

“This is the first time indoors for him, and nothing fazed him,” said Tom, who finished a mere fraction ahead of James Shore and One Two Watch II.

Tina Fletcher and Hello Boyo (Kannan) were the victors in the 7&8-year-old championship, an acute turn inside the wall to the final fence saving valuable time.

“It was a tough course, but the further he went, the better he jumped,” said Tina.

The four-year-old championship judged on style and performance went to three rounds to separate the top two horses, Julie Andrews and Arkol the eventual winners.

Mathew Sampson and Rush On M were really at the races to win the under 21 final, and it would be a brave person to bet against this championship being the fastest one of the week.

“He’s an awesome jumper, everything I asked for he gave me,” said Mathew.

Jonathon Buxton and Wings Sublieme chased a quick standard, but they really upped the pace to win the grade C championship.

“I’ve only been riding her two months, but we have been building up to this,” said Jonathon who pipped Laura Johnson (Wandore).

Ian Wynne and Don Douglas successfully defended their 2010 crown in the National senior rider championship, the pair heading the four-strong jump off from last draw.

Emily Ward rode one of her favourite ponies to win the junior adventurer championship, the six-year-old King Mac pulling off two crucial turns to win from penultimate draw.

Championship results: 1 September

AJ Walter Aviation pony adventurer. – 1, King Mac (E Ward); 2, Destavelars Misty (C Dawson); 3, Zophie III (R Gunn). Smarter Training Group National 1.15m.– 1, Lanbado Supreme (E Sargeant); 2, Brooklands Jack The Lad (A Brown); 3, Sat On A Star (S Pountain). Autostop National 4-year-old.– 1, Arkol (J Andrews); 2, Millioninmind (C Barnes); 3, Curra River (A Barr). Equiport National 5-year-old Milton.– 1, Bintang II (T Hearne); 2, One 2 Watch II (J Shore); 3, Bart VI (E Stoker). Halsall Electrical National grade C.– 1, Wings Sublieme (J Buxton); 2, Wandore (L Johnson); 3, Dougie Douglas (H Gillott). Springs Equestrian Partnership National 7&8-year-old.– 1, Hello Boyo (T Fletcher); 2, Erasmus Van De Heffinck (D Jolliffe); 3, Zagahorn (M Armstrong). Whittaker Coachbuiders National senior riders.– 1, Don Douglas (I Wynne); 2, Floryy (R Tillson); 3, Wilandri E (S Burchmore). Hopkinson National under 21.– 1, Rush On M (M Sampson); 2, Titi D’Oase (L Guild); 3, Winner IV (L Saywell).

For the second year running at the Cushionbed British Showjumping Scope Festival, Sam Hutton won the National 1.30m title riding For A Smile.

“This proved a pretty hot class, but she is so quick away from a fence, and then she is always looking forward to the next. We are having a brilliant week,” said Sam, who won the gents championship with Astral 57 on Wednesday evening.

Sam collected a hat trick when partnering Kerry Grimster to win the Cats & Pipes pairs challenge.

A turn inside to the double secured victory in the Blue Riband championship for Paul Barker, riding Rosemary Hetherington’s Lux Fabulous.

“It was a tight cut, but I knew he had the scope to jump through it,” said Paul.

Fresh from their success at Netley Hall, where they qualified for HOYS, Jessica Hewitt and Barnee Rubble showed their rivals a clean pair of heals to clinch the National 128cm title.

Yet again, a twisty jump off track asked plenty of questions, but Jessica put the pressure on from an early draw. “The aim was to set a good standard,” she said.

Local rider Danielle Brown claimed her first championship win in Bingley Hall when the agile Cuddly Colin raced round to head the National 138cm final.

“This was a good flowing course where we could keep moving,” said Danielle.

Charlie Dawson took the top honours in the progressive championship where Francus and Destavelars Misty took the top two places.

“We have been knocking on the door for a win all week, so I’m glad it has come in a final,” said Charlie who steered inside routes all the way.

Charlotte Jose secured victory in the under 16 championship after Frannie answered every question over a testing jump off course.

“We debated about some of the turns, but she has a long stride so I decided to keep moving,” said Charlotte, who was having only her eighth outing with her Swedish-bred mare.

Simple tactics paid off for Sophie Holliday and Westerhofs Limit in the National Discovery championship.

“We started off fast, and finished faster,” said Sophie who inched ahead of Beth Austin and Zeester to win the championship.

Championship results: 2 September

Independent Asset Management pony progressive. – 1 & 2, Francus & Destavelars Misty (C Dawson); 3, Lahinch Katie (R Simmons). The Old School Bamburgh National 128cm. – 1, Barnee Rubble IV (J Hewitt); 2, Coco Can (T Byrtt); 3, Rapidash II (R Murphy). Jane Pownall National 138m. – 1, Cuddly Colin (D Brown); 2, Some Kinda Mr Wonderful (J Hewitt); 3, Little Miss Ebony (L Aitkenhead). SJA Services National under 16.– 1, Frannie (C Jose); 2, Willow The Whisp III (K Leonard); 3, Ullabaloo VI (P Stronge). Equissage National Discovery. – 1, Westerhofs Limit (S Holliday); 2, Zeester (B Austin); 3, ZarondaII (M Boddy). Compass Marine Fuels National 1.30m.– 1, For A Smile (S Hutton); 2, Gibside Smokey Joe (J Smith); 3, Lavaletta II (M Armstrong). Sport Horse Classic Blue Riband. – 1, Lux Fabulous (P Barker); 2, Wilando B (E Stoker); 3, Ardenteggle Poltarf (S Platts). Cats & Pipes pairs challenge.– 1, Top Limit (S Hutton) & All Rise (K Grimster); 2 Ballyhope (L Brown) & Ballyknock Lad (J Smith); 3, Toetie (L Glendinning) & Wyoming (T Page).

Don’t miss H&H’s full report from Scope in next week’s magazine

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Eight more finals were ticked off on the fourth day at the Cushionbed British Showjumping Scope Festival championships, where the ladies and gents finals went right to the wire, the gents concluding with no double clear.

The winner on the fastest four faults was Sam Hutton riding Astral 57.

“This horse has been jumping well. He was on course for a decent win, and this has been our biggest” said Sam.

By contrast, the ladies’ class proved a hard fought contest, Emma Stoker and China Blue clinching the title with a brilliantly timed round from penultimate draw in the eight strong jump off.

Cheshire rider Darby Ward scored a championship double in the pony Foxhunter masters and starspotters championship riding Raisa Cestani.

“She’s so quick and agile” said Darby.

Taking the final tickets to HOYS for the junior Foxhunter championship were Tegan Jones (Robe Duster), Emily Ward (Adams Fancy), Lauren Blunsdon (Ching Ching) and Jodie Crawford (Morepark Flash).

Tara Byrrt and My Little Tinker headed a hotly contested jump off in the National 128cm primary championship.

“There were plenty of turns to fit in” said Tara.

Abbie Taylor steered inside lines all the way to win the 138cm primary with Ashes Cool Dude who was bought here last year.

Yorkshire rider Sally Hopkinson produced a flying round to win the under 18 final riding Theunis.

The National 1.30m title went north of the border to Scottish rider Aileen Craig (Quiberon D) who beat fellow Scot James Smith.

John Whitaker claimed the top ticket to Birmingham in the National 7&8 year-old qualifier riding the Old Lodge’s Lord of Arabia.

Also qualifying for Horse of the Year Show were Alex Thompson (Dignity III), Nicole Pavitt (Abeer) and Laura Robinson (Jonti).

Championship results: Wednesday 31 August

SJA Services National 128cm primary.—1, My Little Tinker (T Byrtt); 2, Marthas Darling (C Dawson); 3, Pringle (D Walton). SJA Services National 138cm primary.—1, Ashes Cool Dude (A Taylor); 2, Try To Hit Me (G Babes); 3, Pedro De Bronski (F Adams). Squibb Demolition pony Foxhunter masters.—1 & 3, Raisa Cestani & Wischin Chin M (D Ward); 2, Ammanvalley Santino (A Gill). Geoffrey Robinson pony starspotters.— 1, Raisa Cestani; 2, Boyne Ashanti (E O’Dwyer); 3, Monbeg Hero (A Wilks). HBF Equestrian National 1.30m.— 1, Quiberon D (A Craig); 2 & 3, Gibside Smokey Joe & Cumina (J Smith). Tacklockers.com National under 18.—1, Theunis (S Hopkinson); 2, Sunsolde (K Deakin); 3, Papaikou (E O’Dwyer). Smallman Family National ladies.—1, China Blue (E Stoker); 2, Winner IV (L Saywell); 3, Ominerale Courcelle (A Van Essen). Kompeet National gents.—1, Astral 57 (S Hutton); 2, Thesaura (M Armstrong); 3, Peter VI (J Hughes).

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The championship classes got underway on the second day of the seven-day Scope Festival at Stafford County Showground. And competition was hot as riders fought hard for victory.

PE teacher Danielle Joliffe landed the equestrianclearance.com newcomers masters on Explosief Van De Heffinck.

“He’s so consistent,” said Lancs-based Danielle, who has qualified this seven-year-old stallion for — “everything at Scope from the 1.05m to the 1.30m.”

Sam Wall claimed the KBIS British novice title on Harvey Lee’s homebred What A Business son What A Boy with a flying stride to a midway oxer.

“It was the only way to win,” said Sam, who credited What A Boy’s scope and ability.

Darcie Cassel heeded trainer Alan Fazakerley’s advice to take the Netley Hall pony discovery championship on What’s It All About.

“I stuck to my plan, went tight to the double and took a flyer at the last!” she said.

Megan Taylor secured the Pink Equine stepping stones 138cm title with Ashwey El Britanika.

There was an added incentive, Megan is supported by Pink Equine, who supply her tack.

“I really wanted to win, and although my pony’s young, he did a great turn to the last” said Megan, 10, who has produced the six-year-old for 18 months.

Katie Clarke, 8, made her Scope debut a winning one with the Pink Equine stepping stones 128cm on Show Me Heaven. They held off 18 jump-off rivals.

“The course was challenging, but my pony is an angel, even though she’s an old lady at 22!” said Katie, who won by a clear sec.

Scope Festival results: day two

Pink Equine stepping stones 128cm ch.– 1, Show Me Heaven (K Clarke); 2, Pie In The Sky V (M Deakin); 3, Springcroft Calypso (A Stormonth). Pink Equine stepping stones 138cm ch.– 1, Ashwey El Britaniko (M Taylor); 2, My Little Ruby (W Edwards); 3, Just Harry II (A Ward). Netley Hall pony discovery ch.– 1, What’s It All About IV (D Cassel); 2, Bramblebrough Alan (D Watson); 3, Buddy Budweiser (L Fenn). KBIS British nov ch.– 1, What A Boy II (S Wall); 2, Evensong II (E Sargeant); 3, Bustino (N Berry). equestrianclearance.com newcomers ch.– 1, Explosief Van De Heffinck (D Joliffe); 2, Golvers Hill (N Coupe); 3, A Touch Imperious (H Nuttall).

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Scope made losses of more than £30,000 last year and of £20,000 the year before, according to its accounts, but a spokesman for the series has described it as “thriving” and “viable”.

Spokesman Debra Hargrave told H&H: “The Cushionbed British Showjumping (BS)/Scope UK Festival has run successfully for 14 years and continues to thrive.

“The show is viable and will definitely go ahead next year. This year we welcomed new title sponsor, Cushionbed, which has signed up for five years.”

The championships are run, under an agreement with BS, by Scope UK Open Showjumping Championships Ltd.

This year’s festival (29 August-4 September) had 100 classes with over £95,000 in prize-money and 24 national championships.

But, despite this success, accounts recently obtained by H&H show the company’s total assets as of 28 February 2009 to be £33,379 in the red.

A loss of £22,614 was made in 2008 and a mortgage for £25,000 was taken in July 2009.

According to the accounts lodged with Companies House, director James Philip Maguire has agreed to support the company financially.

Mr Maguire stated: “During the financial year, the company found trading extremely difficult. This has resulted in the company reporting losses.”

BS Oxfordshire area rep Chris Parker tackled BS chairman and company secretary of Scope UK, Michael Mac, about the losses at the BS AGM on 14 August.

Mr Parker told H&H: “Area reps are concerned that there is a mortgage outstanding on our national championships. If the bank decides to call that in what would happen to Scope?”

And another BS member, who did not want to be named, said he was amazed that a show as apparently successful as Scope should make losses. He said members should have been told about the financial insecurity.

Mr Mac did not wish to speak to H&H, referring us to Ms Hargrave, who declined to discuss financial issues.

BS chief executive Iain Graham said BS is “confident Scope will be in the calendar for 2011 and beyond”.

This news story was first published in Horse & Hound (9 September, 2010)

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Bruce Menzies lifted the British Showjumping national champion title with the sole treble clear on Old Lodge’s exciting International prospect Sultan.

Only three accessed the daunting 1.60m jump-off, with Bruce’s opening clear taking the £7,000 first prize.

“The fences were enormous, but he was eager to get at them,” said Bruce.

Kerry Grimster hit the jackpot for a second time this week as Equissage discovery champion One Diamond added the Thermohomes adventurer to their tally.

“I knew I had to be fast,” said Kerry, whose crucial turn inside a flower island clinched victory.

Anthony Condon finished the Scope Festival week on a high. After taking HOYS newcomers and Foxhunter qualifying places with the British-bred Molly Malone earlier in the week, he scooped the Marsh six-year-old championship. “She’s something special,” he said.

In a head-to-head, Kirsty Hardstaff on Omane Des Faux claimed the Halsall Electrical grade B title from Andrew Davies and Necker Platiere. “I played it safe for a clear, but he’s naturally quick,” said Kirsty, whose tactics paid handsomely.

Pony riders struggled with a difficult, technically demanding Dunglenn 148cm track. Only James Whitaker and Cavalcade — to ringing cheers — matched Ireland’s Emma O’Dwyer’s two clears.

James’ jump-off round had spectators on their feet, but despite being two sec faster, the double hit the floor to leave James in third.

“I had two experienced ponies and just had to make sure I rode properly,” said Emma, 15, champion with Kalim De Montlieu and second on Jacknell Street.

Efficiently negotiating a serpentine line of turns, Anya Brown took the pony British novice on Brooklands Dun Dreamer. “He’s ultra-careful and will drop and turn,” said Anya, 16, whose opening round in the 21-pony jump-off proved unassailable.

Last year’s fastest four-faulter, Tara Byrtt, 10, returned to Stafford in 2010 to be crowned Shaw Farm Stud Tiny Tots champion on Coco Can. “I’ve saved him especially for this class,” said Tara, current Pony of the Year Show 11-year-old and under champ.

In an exciting Bilton Ward mighty and midget relay, last-to-go team Beth Adams (Pedro De Bronski) and William Whitaker (Fonix) snatched victory. “Will was a great partner,” said Beth.

Championship results

Simon & Wendy Roe pony British nov ch. – 1, Brooklands Dun Dreamer (A Brown); 2, Future Role (H Tiley); 3, Twilight Thomas (A Dunlop). Thermohomes Europe adventurer ch. – 1, One Diamond (K Grimster); 2, Ballintogher Mustateer (M Thompson); 3, Unna VII (T Page). Halsall Electrical grade B ch.– 1, Omane Des Faux (K Hardstaff); 2, Necker Platiere (A Davies); 3, Verlindo (A Barton). Shaw Farm Stud tiny tots.– 1, Coco Can (T Byrtt); 2, Lindens Frosty (F Roberts); 3, Stilo Zebedee (J Whitaker). Geoffrey Robinson Dunglenn 148cm ch.– 1 & 2, Kalim De Montlieu & Jacknell Street (E O’Dwyer); 3, Cavalcade (J Whitaker). Bilton Ward Developments midget & mighty masters relay. – 1, Fonix (W Whitaker) & Pedro De Bronski (B Adams); 2, Acordio (L Pavitt) & Dereentique Toby (Z Smith); 3, Parvati De Breve (L Renwick) & Grey Palace (T Ward). Cushionbed gp. – 1, Sultan V (B Menzies); 2, Leonardo 590 (J Clayton); 3, Tin Tin (G Lovegrove). Marsh 6yo ch.– 1, Molly Malone V (A Condon); 2, Zomeroos (A Thompson); 3, Zed II (D Walsh).

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After winning the 128cm primary championship on Thursday, Jessica Hewitt and Pendini added the National 128cm title to their achievements.

Late drawn in the jump off, Jessica produced another flying round from her careful little mare. “It was a bigger course today, but no fence is too big for her,” said Jessica.

Tim Wilks was another rider celebrating a championship double. Following on from his junior star spotters win with Rusty Boy, Tim also claimed the under 16 final riding the Billy Stud’s Billy Pop.

Tim has been riding the British-bred mare for six months, and she proved deceptively fast from an early draw in the jump off. “She has a fairly short stride, but that does help to get the turns,” said Tim.

Kerstin Deakin was left agonising through the remainder of the National 138cm jump off, after she set a tremendous pace with The Agent. The Newcastle rider never took a pull, and a brilliant jump across the final upright saw The Agent set an unbeatable target. “We had no choice but to take risks, and it was an amazing round,” said Kerstin.

Victory in the junior progressive championship went to Jersey rider Josh Baudains riding the seven-year-old skewbald Texas John. Josh successfully commutes from the Channel Islands to compete on the mainland during the summer, and he qualified two ponies (Texas John and Cactus) for a total of seven championships.

After winning the 2009 Katherine James novice championship, Kerry Grimster’s One Diamond stepped up a level to win the Equissage National Discovery title, and the pair are also qualified for the Adventurer championships.

The National 1.30m championship went right to the wire, Sam Hutton and For A Smile winning from last draw. The final oxer proved the downfall of many, but Fiona Dunning’s Carnaval Drum mare absolutely flew it.

“She locked onto the fence and knew exactly what she was doing,” said Sam, who added to his winnings when riding Top Limit to win the pairs championship with Gemma Hallett (Wake Up).

Another brilliant last drawn effort secured victory for James Smith and Winday II in the Sports Horse Classic championship. James bought his mare in Belgium this summer, and she has since qualified for the Horse and Hound Foxhunter and 7 & 8-year old finals at Horse of the Year Show.

Championship results

Independent Asset Management pony progressive novice.– 1, Texas John (J Baudains); 2, My Time IV (T Evans); 3, Nevada IV (L Cobby). Jane Pownall National 128cm.– 1, Pendini (J Hewitt); 2, Spring Disney (J Hall-McAteer); 3, Flinor Songbird (A Gill). Jane Pownall National 138cm. – 1, The Agent (K Deakin); 2, Pedro De Bronski (F Adams); 3, Emoe Jessie (E Ward). SJA Services under 16yrs. – 1, Billy Pop (T Wilks); 2, Usar Hune (J Mendoza); 3, Miss Contradiction (K Taggart). Equissage National Discovery. – 1, One Diamond (K Grimster); 2, Jubilee III (E Stoker); 3, Quids In II (A Mills). High Offley Stud 1.30m.– 1, For A Smile (S Hutton); 2, Calvaro’s Ace (P Barker); 3, Just Teasing (A Trickett). Sport Horse Classic. – 1, Winday II (J Smith); 2, SHC Valentin R (M Potter); 3, Ciella (S Buckley). Cats & Pipes pairs challenge. – 1, Wake Up (G Hallett) & Top Limit (S Hutton); 2, Northern Dance All Night (J Smyth) & Zegreanne Z (K Shore); 3, Zapzarap (E Grant) & William Wallace IV (C Collins).

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Emma-Jo Slater’s winning spree continued at the British Showjumping Scope Festival yesterday, as she won the Smarter Builders 1.15m with Simply Billie Bunter — making it a championship hat-trick for the rider.

“This win was unexpected, but the fast favourites made mistakes,” said Emma-Jo, who was also crowned British novice champion (Cosmic Savannah) and Katherine James 1m novice champion (Rembrandt Blue).

Abbie Squires found her hero in Enrique to register her biggest win — the Hopkinson under-21 championship.

“I couldn’t have gone any quicker,” said Abbie, 19, who left Pippa Allen (Bonfire) and William Whitaker (Foniks) trailing behind.

In typical flying form, Laura Renwick secured the Springs Equestrian seven- and eight-year-old championship on Julia Biddle’s Parvati De Breve.

The seven-year-olds dominated in the jump-off of this handicapped class, with Laura’s decisive riding winning from the front.

At her first Scope Festival, amateur Olivia Gent celebrated her 18th birthday 24hours early as her ride Beau Verina took the Tagg66 four-year-old championship.

“It’s only our fifth show and I’ve never won anything like this before,” she said.

Simon Crippen landed the Equiport five-year-old title on Alo Brake’s impressive stallion Acco.

“This was the biggest track he’s jumped, but it didn’t faze him,” said Simon.

After specifically targeting the class on Roy and Marlene Edwards’s Vijlada MW, Andrew Davies returned triumphant with the Halsall Electrical grade C championship.

“This mare makes my job easy, she’s an out-and-out trier,” he said. “And she needed to be — the jump-off was big!”

The Whittaker Horseboxes senior riders championship jump-off was anything but slow as riders responded to spectators’ shouts — current HOYS and British Open amateur champion Ian Wynne proved fastest to claim with Don Douglas.

Jessica Mendoza captured the AJ Walter Aviation pony adventurer with budding star Saorsie.

“She’s the best thing I’ve sat on since Tixlylix,” said Jessica, 14, who acquired the six-year-old mare at Christmas.

AJ Walter Aviation pony adventurer ch.— 1, Saorsie (J Mendoza); 2, Dirty Gerty (A Bradstock); 43, Cloonsahinch Andy Og (C Winchester). Tagg6 4yo ch.— 1, Beau Varina (O Gent); 2, B Alba R 68 (A Botham); 3 eq, Sussex Caretino (L Pavitt); & Braveheart V (T Davies). Equiport 5yo ch.— 1, Acco (S Crippen); 2, HFS Valentino (S Buckley); 3, Fleur Van Overis (S Lane). Springs Equestrian Partnership 7&8yo ch.— 1, Parvati De Breve (L Renwick); 2, Valentino VII (S Hutton); 3, Wild Thing (A Condon). Smarter Training Group 1.15m ch.— 1, Simply Billie Bunter (E Slater); 2, Vesuvius Vu (J Smith); 3, Retreats Watch This (K Grimster). Halsall Electrical grade C ch.— 1, Vijlada MW (A Davies); 2, Blush II (L Whitaker); 3, Trevoulter Lady Utah (H Webster). Whittaker Horseboxes senior riders ch.— 1, Don Douglas (I Wynne); 2, Florry (R Tillson); 3, Borana (R Barton). under 21.— 1, Enrique (A Squires); 2, Bonfire (P Allen); 3, Foniks (W Whitaker).

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Louise and Robert Whitaker claimed the National ladies’ and gentlemen’s titles riding Rostaar and BF Utopia yesterday at the Cushionbed British Showjumping Scope Festival.

While their skill at getting a tune out of anything is undeniable, even Louise and Robert could not have predicted they would win their respective championships on horses they have only just taken over.

The capacity crowd were treated to a real thriller in the ladies’ championship, as Mandy Hall’s Rostaar pipped the defending champions, Laura Renwick and Beluga II.

“This was an amazing result for our first show — he was quick and careful everywhere” said Louise.

Using his late draw to best advantage in the gentlemen’s championship, Robert Whitaker and Rowena Gredley’s BF Utopia overhauled the reigning Horse and Hound Foxhunter champions Bruce Menzies and Old Lodge’s Sultan V.

“This was a big test for our first outing, but he’s a fantastic horse with a lot of experience” said Robert.

Daniel Moseley and the Billy Stud’s eight-year-old mare Billy Buttercup clinched victory in the 1.30m championship.

“She’s been in the ribbons on every outing, but she’s had very little experience indoors at this level” said Daniel.

Chloe Aston pulled a special round out of the bag to win the National under 18 championship riding Tripoli.

“We kept moving all the way, cut inside the island, and stood way off number six,” said Chloe.

Small ponies got proceedings off to a cracking start, with Jessica Hewitt the first victor in the 128cm Primary final riding Pendini.

“This pony is the best I’ve ever had to turn into a fence and spin back to another,” said Jessica.

A photo finish to the 138cm Primary final saw Darby Ward post her first Scope win riding More Than Milton.

“We had to start and finish at the gallop to stand any chance, and all the turns came off in-between,” said Darby.

Chantelle Duggan and Rumworth Taylors Twilight won the junior Foxhunter masters in brilliant style.

Chantelle had already posted an early double clear on Grangeview Iceman, but she was quicker still with her final ride.

The final tickets to Horse of the Year Show went to Jordan Young (Calvadon), Charlotte Jose (Edenside Blue Eyes), Taylor Greenwood (Two Tone II) and Connar Morley (Tina Patch).

While regular jockey Ella Popely was busy competing in the outside rings, Tim Wilks rode Lea Popely’s Rusty Boy to win the junior starspotters championship.

“He’s a very careful pony and he was smooth and fast all the way,” said Tim.

Championship results

SJA Services Ltd National 128cm primary.— 1, Pendini (J Hewitt); 2, Martha’s Darling (F Adams); 3, Sligo Lucky (E Ward. ditto138cms.— 1, More Than Milton (D Ward); 2, Milour Delagrange (J Whitaker); 3, Try To Hit Me (G Babes). Squibb Demolition pony Foxhunter masters.— 1, Rumworth Taylors Twilight (C Duggan); 2, Sequoia True Legacy (N Dean); 3, Miradays Golden Amber (G Tucker). Great Coffee pony starspotters.— 1, Rusty Boy (T Wilks); 2, Grangeview Iceman (C Duggan); 3, Bob Justice (H Barsham). HBF Equestrian National 1.30m.— 1, Billy Buttercup (D Moseley);2, Z Canta (J Welles); 3, Ulinn II (A Thomas). Grants Veterinary Services National under 18.— 1, Tripoli (C Aston); 2, Cumina (J Smith); 3, Cacharel Van De Slaring (T Wilks). Riverside National ladies.— 1 & 3, Rostaar & Dazzle (L Whitaker); 2, Beluga II (L Renwick). Midland Equestrian National gentlemen’s.— 1, BF Utopia(R Whitaker); 2, Sultan V (B Menzies); 3, Mr Darcy V (J Clayton).

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On day two of the British Showjumping/Scope Festival championship classes, Lara Whiteway scored back-to-back title wins.

The first came in the Mandy Hall pony members cup on International Playboy.

“I got the turns because of his fabulous flatwork” said Lara, who bought the 141cm former dressage pony four years ago. “We can’t bear to sell him, so my trainer Julie Andrews daughter Molly, 10, will now ride him.”

Zam Zara doubled up in the children-on-horses for Lara, 16.

“She’s been on the back-burner as I concentrated on the pony European championships” she said, “and I only brought her here last-minute because one of the ponies is sold.”

Children-on-horses team gold and individual silver medallist Millie Allen, 12, switched to ponies to take the Blue Chip pony newcomers masters on Song Girl.

“I knew I had to go for it” said Millie, who named this seven-year-old by amalgamating her two favourite 128cm ponies’ names — Flinor Songbird and Mathews Girl.

Stacey Babes secured the Horse & Hound Foxhunter masters on Valdemar, snatching the title from Anthony Condon’s fast target with Wild Thing by half a sec.

“The track was tricky, but Valdemar is a trier” said Stacey.

A flying round in a 10-horse decider handed Welshman Felix McCartney the George Babes young riders B and C championship on Evamore.

“She’s the best I’ve ever had” said Felix, who has partnered William Jones’s homebred mare for the past two seasons.

Courting favoured odds with three in the jump-off, Emma-Jo Slater marked her second championship victory of the week in the Katherine James 1m novice on Rembrandt Blue. She also snared second on newly-crowned British novice champion Cosmic Savannah.

Day two results

Mandy Hall national pony members cup 1.15m ch. – 1, International Playboy (L Whiteway); 2, Falaza (B Vernon); 3, Kiltormer Grey (J Merrick). Blue Chip pony newcomers masters. – 1, Song Girl (M Allen); 2, Rumworth Taylors Twilight (C Duggan); 3, Rusty Boy (T Wilks). children-on-horses ch. – 1, Zam Zara (L Whiteway); 2, Usar Hune (J Mendoza); 3, Cornelius 27 (J Saywell). George Babes yr B&C ch. – 1, Evamore (F McCartney); 2, Billy Pop (T Wilks); 3, Cumina (J Smith). Horse & Hound/Angela Eardley show jumpers Foxhunter masters.– 1, Valdemar (S Babes); 2, Wild Thing (A Condon); 3, Midsummer Nights Dream (D Charles). Katherine James 1m nov.– 1 & 2, Rembrandt Blue & Cosmic Savannah (E-J Slater); 3, Pied Piper (A Norman).

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Georgia Leader-White and Tullamore Girl became the first Scope Festival champions of 2010, the pair winning the Netley Hall Equestrian Holidays Pony Discovery championship in brilliant style.

Eleven of the 30 starters contested the jump off, where Georgia stormed into the lead from third last draw.

“She prefers to jump at speed, so the second round suited us better” said Georgia, who is in her final pony year.

Emma Slater and Cosmic Savannah were the winners of the 30-starter KBIS Insurance senior British novice championship.

Emma took an early lead with her first horse Rembrandt Blue (29.23), but after being overtaken by Emma Sargeant (Masters Pleasure) and Michael Fursedonn (Caretino Vantarsi), Emma steered tighter still with Mick Fortune’s Renkum Valentino sired Cosmic Savannah, who posted the fastest time of all.

Scottish rider Mark Turnbull headed a hotly contested jump off in the Tri-Zone newcomers masters championship riding Ursula XII.

At 16, Mark was probably the youngest rider in the class, but he sliced over 1sec off Laura Renwick’s leading time with Bellagio II.

“I just set out to jump a double clear, but she’s a very bold mare who really takes fences on” said Mark.

In addition to decent prize money, this class also offered the final tickets to the Tri-Zone newcomers final, and claiming their place on the HOYS startlist was Laura Renwick (Bellagio II), Angela Thompson (Zomeroos), Anthony Condon (Molly Malone) and Brian Thompson (Millfield Lord Luis).

Championship results 30 August

§Netley Hall Equestrian holidays pony Discovery. §– 1, Tullamore Girl (G Leader-White); 2, King Mac (C Duggan); 3, Blaensawdde Rosie (C Crees). §KBIS Insurance National senior British novice. §– 1, Cosmic Savannah (E Slater); 2, Masters Pleasure (E Sargeant); 3, Caretino Vantarsi (M Fursedonn). §Tri-Zone senior newcomers masters. §– 1, Ursula XII (M Turnbull); 2, Bellagio II (L Renwick); 3, Zenith IV (M Saywell).

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The prize money for the grand prix at the BSJA (British Show Jumping Association) Scope Festival of Show Jumping has been increased to £33,000, from £7,000, following a sponsorship deal with bedding company Cushionbed.

The West Midlands-based firm has agreed to become the title sponsor of the show for five years and is offering a £9,000 first prize in the renamed grand prix class — the Cushionbed Elite National Championship

Show director Jimmy Maguire said: “We are delighted that Cushionbed is becoming involved with the show and are looking forward to a long and happy working relationship.”

All the stables at the show (29 August-4 September 2010) will be bedded down with the company’s recycled wood fibre bedding.

Cushionbed managing director Rod Gifford added: “We are extremely excited to be part of one of the most prestigious events of the equestrian calendar.”

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Philip Spivey and Tracey Forrest’s Romanov II became the final winners of the BSJA/Scope Festival at Stafford. Drawn second in the third and final round, Philip steered across the angles and turned sharply back to what was the second part of the double, and also the final upright, to clinch the BSJA Easibed Elite National title.

“He (Romanov) has so much scope. I just spun him back, and he picked up off every turn,” said Philip. Pathfinders Laura Renwick (Limelight De Breve) and William Funnell (Billy Congo) also jumped clear in the final round to finish second and third.

By winning the Dunglenn 148cm championship, Pippa Allen bowed out of her final junior class at the Festival in brilliant style. Riding Duncan Inglis’s Maradonna, Pippa produced an amazing jump off round to relegate the pathfinders Jessica Mendoza and Tixylix. The twisty jump off course called for extreme accuracy, and Pippa felt the pressure to the final double. “I dreaded making a mistake at the last fence, but Duncan told me to sit quiet and let him jump out,” said Pippa.

Nick Skelton headed the National six-year-old competition riding Beverley Widdowson’s Big Star. The Quickstar stallion was impressive throughout his three rounds. “He’s got the lot, temperament, length of stride, and unbelievable scope,” said Nick.

The National grade B championship was won by Hayley McCaie riding Mister Tom, and heading the Grade C championship was Charlotte Foreman riding Alimo.

Biggest jump off of the day was for the Shaw Farm Stud tiny tots championship, where 30 contested the final round. Jessica Hewitt clinched the top two places riding Green Gem Coco and Duncrynes Jungle Bunny.

Chloe Fearn opened the final day championships with a super win in the pony British Novice final with Mister Seamus. The 15-year-old Coventry rider set the standard from second draw, and the remaining finalists couldn’t catch her. “We had to go for it,” said Chloe.

Championship results

Waterboy.uk.com National pony British novice. – 1, Mister Seamus (C Fearn); 2, Carnalecka Spirit (R Gunn); 3, Brooklands Dun Dreamer (A Brown). Sandicroft Stud Adventurer. – 1, Sat On A Star (S Pountain); 2, Zippy (L Wade); 3, Zandor H (C Birch). Sheds & Stables Direct National Grade C. – 1, Alimo (C Foreman); 2, Warrior (L Pavitt); 3 Urma II (H Tredwell). ditto grade B. – 1, Mister Tom (H MaCaie); 2, Valentino VII (S Hutton); 3, Vardiljo Van Den Bosrand (M J Crawford). Shaw Farm Stud National tiny tots.— 1 & 2, Green Gem Coco & Duncrynes Jungle Bunny (J Hewitt); 3, Tick Tock (O Poole). Handarena.com Dunglen 148cm. – 1, Maradonna (P Allen); 2, Tixylix (J Mendoza); 3, Cappagh Cindy (S Gunn). BSJA Partnership National 6–year-old. – 1, Big Star (N Skelton); 2, Puck II (D Lampard); 3, Lennon VZ (D Ryder). BSJA show jumping style & performance. – 1, Attilus (J Gornall); 2, Ramirha’s Lady (C Tee); 3, Just Call Me Max (N Sheard). BSJA Easibed Elite National championship. – 1 Romanov II (P Spivey); 2, Limelight De Breve (L Renwick); 3, Billy Congo (W Funnell).

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Andrew Davies made full use of his last draw with Hands Off in the Classic Blue Riband championship. Just seven produced initial clears to contest the jump off, and with four of the finalists producing sharp double clears, Andrew threw caution to the wind to finish 1sec ahead of Jodie Ward (Urielle II).

The Allen Family, from Stainsby Grange had plenty to celebrate on the penultimate day, as sisters Millie (Flinor Songbird) and Pippa (Tiger Lily III) became the National 128cm and under 16 champions.

Double clears in the 128cm championship proved elusive, and Millie and Flinor Songbird produced a copy book round from last draw, to win this title for the third time. “We didn’t have a bad fence,” said Millie.

Pippa Allen brought her two rides through to the jump off in the National under 16 championship, and after setting the standard with third placed Vladmir, Pippa improved on that time with Tiger Lily III to win.

The jump off for the National 138cm championship developed into a real thriller, and Katie Robertson and Cappagh Cindy curled around every wing, and jumped across the angles to clinch victory. “We knew exactly what we had to do,” said Katie.

Lizzie Aldridge and Eddies Dream scored a winning double when the pair headed a tight finish to the pony adventurer championship. The pair had won the Foxhunter Masters earlier in the week with a brilliant economical clear, and they again judged their final effort to perfection.

Pony Discovery champions earlier in the week, Fern Pickard and Romany Jane produced another all out effort to clinch a second championship win in the progressive championship. “That was an awesome round,” she said.

Another competitive pair competition received great spectator support, and it was Lynne Clibburn (Ashdale Jackpot) and Ireland’s Bertram Allen (Fountain Ranger) who were the fastest, in the Mighty & Midgets championship.

Championship results

Static Caravan Sales National 128cm. – 1, Flinor Songbird (M Allen); 2, Night Star II (Z Smith); 3, Kingsland Bluebell (R Aird). Jane Pownall National 138cm. – 1, Cappagh Cindy (K Robertson); 2, Lough Gill (B Allen); 3, Oakhurst In the Spotlight (E Curley). AJ Walter Aviation pony adventurer. – 1, Eddie’s Dream (E Aldridge); 2, Herbie’s Double Trouble (G Roadnight); 3, Trieve Midnight Express (J Cain). Smith Equestrian National under 16. – 1 & 3, Tiger Lily III & Vladmir (P Allen); 2, Cashmira (L Robinson). Independent Asset Management junior progressive. – 1, Romany Jane (F Pickard); 2, Hot Prospect II (A Brown); 3, Rebel’s Request (C Elliott). Bilton Ward Developments Midget & Mighty Masters relay. – 1, Ashdale Jackpot (L Clibburn) & Fountain Ranger (B Allen); 2eq, Vernon G (L Renwick) & Martha’s Darling (Adams) & Insultech Leonardo 59 (W Whitaker) & Emoe Jessie (E O’Dwyer). Sports Horse Classic Bue Riband Championship. – 1, Hands Off (A Davies); 2, Urielle II (J Ward); 3, Larkspur (H Tredwell).

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The ‘tail-end’ of Hurricane David certainly caused problems for organisers, riders and officials at the BSJA/Scope Festival, as overnight high winds and torrential rain caused the temporary closure of all four outdoor rings at Stafford County Showground on Thursday.

A Dunkirk spirit prevailed as organisers worked round the clock to revise timetables.

The most exciting finish of the night was in the Under 21 National championship where Jemma Kirk clinched victory riding Tosca. In a thrilling climax, Jemma overtook the in-form Mathew Sampson riding Chianti Classico. A brilliant last drawn effort saw Sam Hutton and Olympia III finish third.

There was strong interest in the young horse championships. Nicole Pavitt made her first ride in the four-year-old championship a winning one, as she topped the class riding Lisa Tudor’s Festiena Van Texelhof. Judged on a style and performance basis, judges Pennie Cornish and Lisa Hales awarded the Bentley Van De Heffink mare a total of 261 marks.

Victory in the five-year-old championship went to Angie Thompson riding her Dutch-bred Zomeroos. There were plenty of options in the jump-off track, and Angie found every short cut. “We were deep at the planks, but she picked her tootsies up bless her,” she said.

Completing a clean sweep for the girls, Anna Edwards claimed the 7 & 8 year-old title riding Unique IX.

Louise Saywell and Call Me Smartie shaved every wing, to win the 1.15m championship. Clear rounds became progressively faster in the 27-strong jump off, and Louise risked all to head a blanket finish.

The remaining championships went to Bryony Ward, who clinched victory in the Equissage Discovery championship riding Spring Fever, and Richard Barton, who took the top two places in the senior riders competition riding Let’s Dance and First Musical.

Championship results

Equissage National Discovery. – 2, Spring Fever (B Ward); 2, Zovidius R (M Fursedon); 3, Parc and Ride (E Smith). Smarter Training Group National 1.15m. – 1, Call Me Smartie (L Saywell); 2, Aramis Van Halbeek (S Crosby); 3, Pit Stop NRW (E Stoker). Leonardo Collection National 4-year-old. – 1, Festiena Van Texelhof (N Pavitt); 2, Billy Mexico (D Moseley); 3, Adam L (S Lane). Equiport National 5-year-old. – 1, Zomeroos (Athompson); 2, Uniquewa (C Freeman); 3, Zappa II (S Crippen). Springs Equestrian 7 & 8-year-old handicap. – 1, Unique IX (J Kirk); 2, Roller Coaster III (L Renwick); 3, Univeau (P Miller). Whittaker Coachbuilders National senior riders. – 1 & 2, Let’s Dance II & First Musical (R Barton); 3, U2 II (J Picken). Cats & Pipes pairs. – 1, Collin 43 (M Sampson) & Mac O’Mara (S Pountain).

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Following the temporary suspension of all outdoor rings at Stafford County Showground due to heavy rain and strong winds, the organisers at the BSJA/Scope Festival have announced a revised timetable.

To accommodate some of the preliminary rounds, classes will continue through the night in the indoor Bingley Hall arena tonight (Thursday 3 September). All rings are expect to be back in action tomorrow (Friday 4 September) and competitors are advised to ring to check the running order of classes (tel:01785 253307).

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After torrential overnight rain and strong winds, organisers have had to cancel all the classes due to be held in the outside rings at the BSJA / Scope Festival today.

An announcement is due at 1pm as to whether today’s competitions — including preliminary rounds for the Tiny Tots and B&C championships — can be rescheduled.

All competitions due to be held in the championship arena, which is indoors, are going ahead as planned.

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Irish eyes were certainly smiling at the conclusion of the National Gentlemens Championship, as Billy Twomey and his stable jockey Anthony Condon took the top two places riding Montanus Colorado and Cruisings Micky Finn. Ten contested the final round, and Cheshire based Billy Twomey took the lead from 4th draw. Just for good measure, Billy also claimed 4th spot with Tinkas Serenade.

A winner of three classes already at the BSJA/Scope Festival, Laura Renwick dominated the National Ladies Championship by finishing 1st, 2nd and 9th riding Beluga II, Limelight De Breve and Roller Coaster III. A brave gallop to the last clinched victory. “ Beluga relished it,” said Laura.

Simon Crippen proved in great form in the National 1.30m Classic championship; the Herts rider taking 1st and 4th places with Tjelke and Simply Billie Bunter.

A brilliant effort from Joe Davison and Antrim Sunshine clinched victory in the National Under 18 championship. “We were a bit close to the last, but everything worked out,” said Joe, who held on to the lead despite a spirited challenge by last drawn Lucy Guild and Titi D’Oase.

Lizzie Aldridge and Eddie’s Dream produced the only double clear to win the junior Foxhunter masters. They also claimed the top ticket on offer to the Horse of the Year Show. Taking the remaining places to HOYS were Abbie Griffin (Cragghouse Griff 3rd) and Harriet King (Sir Wallace 7th), who both earned newcomer tickets on Tuesday, while Stephanie Gunn (Cool Diamond 10th) claimed the final ticket to Birmingham.

Lizzie (Aldridge), who is in her final pony year narrowly missed a second victory in the following Starspotters championship, but on this occasion, they had to settle for third place behind Georgie Roadnight (Herbie’s Double Trouble) and late drawn Danielle Lawrence (Karlesberg).

Yet again, the National primary 128cm and 138cm final rounds provided fast and furious finales, and winning their respective 128cm and 138cm championships were Faye Adams (Martha’s Darling) and Sophie Luke (Something About Bandit).

Championship results

Smiths Equestrian 128cm Primary. – 1, Martha’s Darling (F Adams); 2, Princess Sophie (D Brown); 3, Flinor Songbird (M Allen). ditto 138cm. – 1, Something About Bandit (S Luke); 2, Atlantic Jewel (L Robinson); 3, Loughcutra Lad (G Babes). Squibb Demolition junior Foxhunter. – 1, Eddie’s Dream (E Aldridge); 2, Ultrador (J Mendoza); 3, Cragghouse Griff (A Griffin). Geoffrey Robinson pony Starspotters. – 1, Herbie’s Double Trouble (G Roadnight); 2, Karlsberg (D Lawrence); 3, Eddie’s Dream. HBF Equestrian National 1.30m classic championship. – 1, Tjelke L (S Crippen); 2, Gitan D’Inconville (M Watson); 3, Alimo (C Foreman). Ladies National Championship. – 1 & 2, Beluga II & Limelight De Breve (L Renwick); 3eq, Wexford (J Kirk) & Gemmaire Precious II (N Pavitt). National Gentlemens Championship. – 1, Montanus Colarado (B Twomey); 2, Cruisings Micky Finn (A Condon); 3, Cree Cruiser (A Barr).

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Louise Pavitt and the Brendon Stud’s Warrior snatched victory in a thrilling Horse & Hound Foxhunter Masters at the Easibed/BSJA Scope festival.

The class also offered the final Horse of the Year Show places and those coveted tickets went to Emily Davies (Traferro 4th), Tim Davies (Valentijn O 5th), Simon Crippen (Ondine Du Logis 6th), and Tina Fletcher (KBIS Yorkshire Business 7th).

Mathew Sampson and V Anubertha 59 claimed their second major championship in 24 hours, the pair storming home ahead in the George Babes Young Riders B&C final. The jump off course offered plenty of options, and Mathew took every inside line to clinch victory.

Hill House United Colours gave Cameron Thompson a brilliant first win at the Scope Festival. The pair combined speed and accuracy to snatch victory in the Hassall Electrical National 1.15m junior members cup championship.

After finishing runners up in the members cup, Jessica and Razorlite won the following Blue Chip Junior Newcomer Masters. Claiming the final tickets to HOYS in this class were Harriet King (Sir Wallace 3rd), Alfie Bradstock (Montezuma II 6th), Abbie Griffin (Cragghouse Griff 7th) and Elodie Hales (Crockstown Silver 8th).

Anna Wilks and Mirage III pulled an extra special round out of the bag to win the GB Homes Children On Horses Championship. Leading the field up to Anna’s late drawn effort, were the 2008 winners Lauren Edwards and Mr Bon Ami, but two superb turns saw Mirage III home ahead by 1sec.

From the preliminary rounds of over 200 finalists, the top 30 contested the Katherine James 1.0m Novice Championship. Claiming the top spot after a breathtaking round was Kerry Grimster riding One Diamond.

Championship results

Halsall Electrical National pony 1.15m members cup – 1, Hill House United Colours (C Thompson); 2, Razorlite II (J Mendoza); 3, Falaza (B Vernon).

Blue Chip Feed Balancer pony newcomers masters – 1, Razorlite II;2, Wicked II (P Allen); 3, Sir Wallace (H King).

GB Homes children on horses. – 1, Mirage III (A Wilks); 2, Mr Bon Ami (L Edwards); 3, For A Smile (A Newberry).

George Babes young riders B&C. – 1, V Anubertha 59 (M Sampson); 2, Ureca (K Ford); 3, Boheme Van De Ganzenakker (M Webb).

Horse & Hound Foxhunter masters. – 1, Warrior (L Pavitt); 2, Valentino VII (S Hutton); 3, Canora (J Andrews).

Katherine James 1.0m novice. – 1, One Diamond (K Grimster); 2, Inky II (B Ward); 3, JGE Believer (T Pearson).

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Fern Pickford had the distinction of claiming the first championship of the Easibed BSJA/Scope Festival, and her winning effort with Romany Jane in the Netley Hall Equestrian Holidays pony discovery championship was spectacular.

Drawn first in the 11-strong jump off, Jane never took a pull from start to finish, and Ann Gasgoine’s 11-year-old black mare was a mere blurr in the Bingley Hall Arena.

“This is the first time we’ve tried her against the clock, and she really motored. That was extra special,” said the Lincolnshire rider, whose main ambition of the week was merely to qualify to jump in the indoor arena.

Another all out effort clinched victory for Mark Thompson in the KBIS Insurance national British novice championship. Riding Topflight True Carlo II, Mark was the only one to find the inside route to fence three, and True Carlo pulled off an amazing spin back inside the island.

Owner Christine Spanner normally competes the five-year-old gelding herself, but when she injured her back earlier in the season, Mark took the ride and qualified him at Market Bosworth, and he was given the championship ride.

With four Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) tickets on offer in the Tri-Zone newcomer masters championship, competition was keen and the 14-strong jump off for the top places provided a fitting climax to the evening.

Producing a stunning round to win the class from mid draw was Mathew Sampson riding Graham Tame’s V Anubertha 59. Strong riding by Mathew got the pair home 2secs ahead.

Taking the remaining tickets to Birmingham were next placed Jackson Reed-Stephenson (Jahil), Keith Shore (Voyager III), and Corinne Collins (William Wallace).

Scope championship class results

Netley Hall Equestrian Holidays pony Discovery. 1, Romany Jane (F Pickard); 2, Tim’s Tinkerbelle (R Parker); 3, Atlantic Hill (H Sellar).

KBIS Insurance National senior British novice. 1, Topflight True Carlo II (M Thompson); 2, Furst Love II (I Wynne); 3, Another Dancer (C Humpage).

Tri-Zone newcomer masters. 1, V Anubertha 59 (M Sampson); 2, Jahil (J Reed-Stephenson); 3, Voyager III (K Shore).

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The ladies and gents champions went head to head in the final easibed national 1.40m grand prix of the BSJA/Scope Festival 2008 on Saturday.

Ellen Whitaker (Ocolado) and Geoff Luckett (Little Lefanie) produced typically determined rounds in their attempt to claim the £5,000 winners purse. Once Geoff had taken the lead with his gents champion Brickfield Boy (4th), the gauntlet was well and truly thrown down.

Billy Twomey was first to relegate the pair with Je T’aime Flamenco, and then Ellen put the class beyond reach with Dawn Makin’s Ocolado. And although Geoff Luckett pulled out all the stops with his last drawn ride R Little Lefanie, they had to settle for 2nd spot.

A specialist at bringing young horses through the grades, Laura Renwick claimed her third title of the week, when Vernon G triumphed in the Vitamite National 6-year-old championship.

This championship has previously been held at the Horse of the Year Show, but this year the final was three rounds on grass in Stafford’s grand ring. Laura led from the half way stage in the 11-strong jump off. She also clinched 3rd and 12th places riding Oz De Breve and Obelix Z.

Pippa Allen took the top two places in the NGM Dunglenn 148cm championship riding Spot the Lady and Caprice III. Pippa and Spot the Lady have had an incredible season, and they were having their first outing since the pony European championships, where they helped to secure team gold for Britain.

Other final day champions were:

National grade C – Victoria Cooper & Mieke II.

National grade B – Richard Barton & Let’s Dance.

QDOS Development & Fiedhouse Furniture Adventurer – Emma Slater & Cosmic Neo.

Peter Flanagan National Junior British Novice – Harriet Barsham & Orland XI.

Golden Bear & Shaw Farm Stud Tiny Tots – Jessica Hewitt & Laithehill Tarragon.

Bilton Ward Developments Midget & Mighty Masters Relay – Ella Howell (Cappagh Cindy) & Keith Shore (Nintendo II).

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Laura Renwick took her second major title of the easibed BSJA/Scope Festival 2008 when Sean Killoran’s Roller Coaster III won the Sports Horse Classic Blue Riband competition,which was jumped over three rounds.

After qualifying at Chester, Laura and her ride of just two months are Birmingham bound for the Horse & Hound Foxhunter final. “I’m amazed, no course proves too big,” she said.

Katie House also clinched a championship double, as her national 128cm primary winner My Little Pumpkin again stormed round to withstand the challenge of Yasmin Tanfield (Silver Wonder) in the Regan Willett 128cm championship.

The opening four junior classes attracted great spectator support, and the Jane Pownell 138cm championship also turned into a real thriller, Jessica Crosby and Fountain Ranger beating the pathfinders Lara Whiteway riding My Bugsy Malone.

It proved a day for new partnerships to triumph — Rachael Connor and Nicky Bell’s Connemara Kelly’s Mirah took the honours in the Independent Asset Management junior progressive championship. Taking full advantage of their last draw, they overhauled Stephanie Gunn (BH Iroko).

Amelia Green also had the best round with Up To Trix II in the Hand Equestrian Centre junior Adventurer championship. The Nottinghamshire rider has been riding Up To Trix II since May, and she used the agility of Peter Allen and David Miller’s grey mare to best advantage to relegate Jordan Nason (Another Dooley).

Just two months into their partnership, Guy Williams and Torinto De Middelstede ran out the winners in the High Offley Stud National 1.30m open championship. Always a hotly contested championship, Guy had it all to do to beat the fast finishing Andrew Davies and Taz Mania II.

Eighth drawn of 12 in the jump off, James Smith and Cumina clinched the Smith Equestrian national under 16 championship. A member of Great Britain’s 2008 European gold medal winning team, the Scottish rider produced a brilliant final effort from the 11-year-old mare to pip Tim Wilks and Mirage.

After thrills and spills galore, the loudest cheers went to Dave Quigley (Sabatini II) and Claire McNaughton (Urania De Walput) who won a fast and furious Cats & Pipes pairs competition.

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Anthony Condon and Whinny Jackson took the National under 21 title by heading a blanket finish to the final Hopkinson International championship at the easibed BSJA/Scope Festival on Thursday evening.

Just 0.5sec separated the top four riders, Lance Whitehouse and his B&C winner Tors La Loi taking second. “It was a hot jump off and it was the turn to the second last oxer which won the class,” said Anthony.

Andrew Saywell and Zenith IV triumphed in the Leonardo Collection national four-year-old championship, which was judged on style and performance. The talented Dutch-bred gelding by Rash R out of Sascha, notched up a 34 point winning margin. “He has scope to burn, and is a real gentleman to ride” said Andrew.

Keith Shore clinched the Equiport National five-year-old Milton championship riding his own, and Betty Brandon’s Mystic Hurricane. They cut every corner to finish ahead of Jackson Reed-Stephenson on Mary T. Home bred by Betty Brandon, Mystic Hurricane is by Tornado out of Magic Top. “I think this horse will go all the way, no course is too big for him” said Keith.

There was no stopping the winning run of Laura Renwick and the Heartbreaker sired Beluga II, who claimed the Mattie Brown National seven-year-old championship in fine style. Chasing a fast time set by Sharon Quigley and Sumas Sound of Music, Laura raced through the start, and never eased up until Beluga II finished 1sec ahead.

Scottish rider Nadine Warwick made her first ride at the Scope Festival a winning one, when Kelso Lady Joycie won a thrilling Whittaker Coachbuilders National senior championship. It proved a fast and furious jump off, and Nadine, who is chef d’equipe of the Scottish home pony international team left nothing to chance.

Two more championships concluded on Thursday, Rebecca Walker and Mysteron headed the Smarter Builder national 1.15m championship, and Chantelle De Verteuil and Cara Anchises combined speed and accuracy to win the Equissage National Discovery championship.

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Ellen Whitaker picked up the Riverside Ladies championship in the Bingley Hall at Stafford during the Easibed BSJA/Scope Festival on Wednesday.

Eleven contested the jump off with Ellen and Ocalado cruising inside to the triple bar to finish ahead of Sharon Quigley (Sumas Sound of Music) and Bumble Tomas (Harrington II).

In the Midlands Equestrian Centre National championship defending champion Geoff Luckett took an early lead in the 10-strong jump off for the gents title. Brickfield Boy jumped across the angles to withstand the challenges of Billy Twomey (Tinka’s Serenade), and Geoff Billington (Rosinus).

Despite competing Indy 28 for the first time indoors, Mathew Sampson pulled off some amazing turns to claim the Peacock Construction National Under 18 championship. The pair were having their first outing since helping Great Britain clinch the 2008 European team gold medal team, and finish fourth individually in Prague.

Pippa Goddard clinched her second championship of the Festival, when Pauline Plowman’s Delfino headed the Squibb & Davies junior Foxhunter masters. Just 2 managed double clears in the jump off, where early drawn Delfino saved every inch. Four HOYS tickets went to Sarah Elder (Cinderella Girl), Amelia Green (Something About Candy), Spencer Roe (Mayflower II) and Chad Fellows (Tex Two).

After setting a fast pace in the 16-strong jump off for the Smiths Equestrian National 128cm primary championship, Katie House and My Little Pumpkin maintained their lead over Millie Allen (Flinor Songbird).

Yasmin Tanfield and Wakeleys Foxhunter produced the only double clear to clinch victory in the National 138cm primary championship. Nine contested the final round, where Yasmin held her nerve after 5 of the early finalists faulted.

Two other championships were settled, Jonathan Dixon and Zegreanne triumphed in the Northern Marine Underwriters National 1.30m Classic, and, although a double clear eluded Tom Woolacott in the Hand Equestrian Centre junior Starspotters championship, his fast four fault final round with Chivas, was good enough to secure victory. “After the first rail fell, we moved up a gear” said the Somerset rider.

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A daring round by Helen Tredwell and Naomi V clinched victory in the Horse & Hound Foxhunter Masters in Stafford’s Bingley Hall Arena at the easibed BSJA/Scope Festival 2008.

Two turns gave Helen and her Hanoverian mare the edge, immediately relegating Geoff Billington and Uppercut II to second spot. “These turns were tight, but she is good at landing and dropping” said Helen.

As Helen and Geoff have already qualified their rides, the HOYS tickets passed down to Louise Whitaker (Contesse SZ), Daniel Moseley (U2 the First), Emma Saywell (Cornelius 27) and Dave Quigley (Ulot).

Four more HOYS ticket were hotly contested in the Blue Chip Feed Balancer Junior Newcomers Masters competition, which was won by Emily West riding Scharonie. “She loves tight turns, so this track suited us” said Emily.

With Scharonie already qualified for the junior Newcomer and Foxhunter finals at Birmingham, the Kent rider firmly set her sights on winning, and against her father Paul’s advice, pulled off two crucial turns to finish ahead of Jessica Mendoza (Razorlight II) and Pippa Allen (Rusty Boy).

With the top 3 ponies already qualified, the HOYS tickets went to Rachael Connor (Kelly’s Mirah), Stephanie Babes (Cassandra Van Het Roelhof), Pippa Goddard (Edenside Blue Eyes) and Lizzy Aldridge (Lemington Anastasia).

Horse & Hound Foxhunter 2007 finalists Lance Whitehouse and Tors La Loi triumphed in the George Babes Young Riders B&C championship. With double clears becoming progressively faster, Lance had to shave every inch from the course.

Another Kent rider, Pippa Goddard triumphed in the Equitrader National 1.15m Members Cup championship. Riding Mr Rojo (26.33), Pippa found a good turn inside the water feature to clip 2secs from Amelia Green’s opener with Up To Trix II (28.69).

“I watched Amelia’s round, and thought it pretty fast, so we had to find an extra turn somewhere” said Pippa. Posing a serious threat from penultimate draw, Jordan Nason took second spot riding Drumcahy Ringo (28.66).

Lauren Edwards, riding Peter Lamb’s Mr Bon Ami produced the only double clear to win the inaugural White Horse Shavings Children on Horses championship.

“He’s a great ride. Nothing fazes him, and no course is too tricky” said Lauren, who just meets up with her partner at shows. Three contested the jump off, Nicki Freeman taking the next places riding Rococo CH and Canudos.

From an original entry list of over 200 horses, and after two preliminary rounds, 32 starters contested the Katherine James Novice Championship. Heading a blanket finish was Carl Freeman riding the Traleigh Stud International’s T Quest, who finished ahead of Chris Moyce (David C) ad Charlotte Foreman (Urio).

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With 4 outdoor rings, and the Bingley indoor arena in full swing since Sunday (24 August), the first championships of the 2008 easibed BSJA/Scope Festival took place last night (Monday) at Stafford County Showground.

Four qualifying places to the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) were hotly contested in the 32-starter Tri-Zone Newcomers Masters Championship. Sophie Heaven riding Mark Samuels Urminka claimed the top ticket from the 17 initial clear rounds. Sophie is just a few months into her partnership with the seven-year-old and won the class from last draw.

“For the past month, this mare has been very difficult to beat, and with 11 horses in this jump off not qualified for HOYS, I knew we had to be quick,” said the Welsh rider.

Taking the remaining tickets to Birmingham were Scott Brash (Nederland Magic 2nd), Laura Renwick (Oz De Breve 4th) and Stuart Harvey (Vivando 6th). Third and fifth places were taken by the already qualified Utopia VI (Lee Williams) and Handels Kosmos (Anne Bedford).

Pandora Bailey and Visetta (26.72) claimed the Derby House senior British Novice championship with a flying round to overhaul Nina Emery (Scandalous 27.67) and Joanne Smyth Northern Dance Allnight (28.43).

Members of the Old Berks Pony Club show jumping team, Pandora and Visetta also event and compete in intermediate working hunter classes. “After qualifying for this championship, it was my ambition to win, so we left nothing to chance,” said Pandora.

Taking the first title of the show, was Luke Hill, who rode Ilar Max (30.46) to win the AJ Walton Aviation junior discovery championship. A fairly new recruit to show jumping, 13-year-old Luke had it all to do to catch Georgie Roadnight (Rohnan Benit 32.99), and pathfinders Emily Whiteside (My Champagne Supernova), but the Yorkshire rider rose to the challenge.

“Max covers a lot of ground, so it was easy to take strides out everywhere” said Luke. Despite a spirited attempt from last draw, Chantelle Salkeld and Spirit VI (32.17) had to settle for second place.

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The format and venue for the six-year-old national show jumping qualifiers and final are changing this year to encourage more careful production of horses towards the London 2012 Olympics.

“We wanted to make a change because we have a number of really good six-year-olds that don’t come through to be good seven-year-olds,” said BSJA chief executive Jacky Wood.

The national six-year-old championship traditionally had nine qualifying rounds, with a final at the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) against the clock. But as of this year, youngsters will be required to jump treble clears [with the horses who achieve this sharing first place] at only four qualifiers. Horses will jump outdoors at the final at this year’s easibed BSJA/Scope Festival of Show Jumping (24-30 August).

“We discussed this for three months before making the decision,” said Ms Wood. “We feel there’s too much jumping, travelling and pressure on young horses and that they go against the clock too early.”

She added that a “prestigious” amateur championship would run in place of the six-year-old final at HOYS.

HOYS organiser Mark Wein told H&H the move offered opportunities to different riders, a comment echoed by Scope organiser Peter Gillespie who said: “An amateur championship at HOYS is more exciting for BSJA members and opens up HOYS to different people and horses.

“The new format [for the six-year-olds] is better for the horses because they were doing too much travelling for too many qualifiers and galloping like mad too often. The prize-fund will also be bigger.”

But although Laura Renwick, whose ride Beluga won the HOYS final last year, agreed that reducing the number of qualifiers was a good move, she said the venue change was a “real shame” and it would lose prestige.

More details of the amateur championship and format for the six-year-old final will be released early next month.

This news story was first published in Horse & Hound (24 January, ’08). Find out what Geoff Billington think of the changes in the current issue.

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Guy Williams and Skip Two Ramiro clinched the final Easibed National 1.40M grand prix. Late drawn in the 14-strong final jump off, Guy produced one of the best rounds of the show to win from Geoff Luckett (Pjort) and Paul Barker (Quinton III).

“It was a tough challenge, but he’s a big striding horse, and a big jumper so it makes it easier to take strides out and turn up to fences,” said Guy.

After Birchill Dessy had already earned him the Junior Starspotters title earlier in the week, Oliver Evans gained the biggest win of his career, when Paddy Power clinched the Panthea Dunglenn 148cm Championship.

Eight came through to the jump off, where the pace was set by pony European team gold medallists Pippa Allen and Spot the Lady. However, some strong riding saw Oliver Evans and Paddy Power emerge the victors.

“He was a bit spooky in the first round, but everything went to plan in the second. What a way to finish,” said Oliver.

Another young rider clinching her biggest ever win, was eight-year-old Denver Griffiths who produced a flying round to win the coveted Golden Bears Tiny Tots championship with Castle Merrylegs. The pair produced a blistering gallop throughout to finish ahead of Faye Adams riding Little Poppet.

“I trust her 100%, so we made our mind up to go for it” said Denver.

Additional winners on the final day in Bingley Hall were:

• Peter Flanagan National Junior British Novice Champions – Missy Bo Jangles ridden by Joe Trunkfield
• The Leonardo Collection National 4 year old champions – Wiarleen ridden by Sally Lane
• Top Tack Adventurer Champions – Orina ridden by Andrew Davies
• Premier Properties National Grade C Champions – Cassandrio Z ridden by Claire Neilson-Hanson
• Premier Properties National Grade B Champions – Santa Fee ridden by Peter White

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Read Horse & Hound’s full report from Scope in 6 September magazine

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Paul Barker (pictured) netted the top prize of the day, the £1,000 winners purse on offer in the High Offley Stud National 1.30M Open championship when Temple Guess What headed a hotly contested jump off in 28.76.

Twisting and turning all the way, Paul produced a typically determined round, the Yorkshire rider beating off the challenge of two other speed specialists, Guy Williams and Lee Williams riding Merva Des Hayettes (28.85) and Linaro 18 (30.42).

Ben Talbot and ISP Bahrain Silver produced one of only two triple clear rounds to win the Sports Horse Classic Blue Riband Championship. Bought in Ireland from his breeder Steven Smith early this year, the Bahrain Cruise sired six-year-old has gone well in age classes this season.

“He was a little bit green when he came over, but he’s improving all the time. This was a hot jump off, and the only way we could make any time up was by taking a stride out on the distance from the oxer to the double,” added Ben. Also producing a brilliant third clear to take second place was Helen Tredwell riding Naomi V.

Sisters Millie and Pippa Allen celebrated a championship double in Bingley Hall on day five. While Millie successfully defended her title in the Regan Willett National 128cm Championship riding her 2006 champion Flinor Songbird, older sister Pippa headed the Sportaction TV Junior Adventurer Championship with a comparatively new ride, Sarah Mendoza’s Razorlite.

Other championship winners were:

• Tony Lithgow Progressive Novice – For Ever Star Turn ridden by Amy Schaverien
• Jane Pownall National 138cm – More Than Milton ridden by Olivia Wells
• Smith of Whiteinch National Under 16 – Oakwood Georgia ridden by Stephanie Platts
• Cats & Pipes Pairs Challenge – Keith Shore and Julian Mincher riding Nintendo and Amore

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Read Horse & Hound’s full report from Scope in 6 September magazine

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Ellen Whitaker gained a memorable championship double on day five of the Easibed Scope/BSJA Festival at Stafford County showground. A member of the recent bronze medal team who secured Britain’s place at the next Olympics, Ellen clinched both the Milton five-year-old and National Under 21 titles.

Second placed Anne Bedford almost set an unbeatable standard with Lillibet in the Milton five-year-old championship, but last-drawn Ellen reduced the leading time by 1sec riding Bilton Ward Developments German-bred mare Holly 112. “By the third round, the track was pretty strong, but she’s a very consistent mare” said Ellen.

Also gaining championship wins in the age classes were Daniel Moseley riding Fiona Down’s National six-year-old victor, the Dutch-bred Utopia Red, and Billy Twomey riding his own Belgian warmblood stallion Je T’Aime Flamenco, who claimed the National Mattie Brown seven-year-old title.

Ellen Whitaker produced another economical round to claim her second victory of the evening in the National Under 21 championship. Using their late draw to best advantage in the 12-strong jump off, Ellen and Cortaflex Kanselier overhauled the leaders Tim Page (Quentin Tarrantino) and Nicole Pavitt (Maestro De Rend Peine) with a daring turn inside to the water tray. “He was spot on everywhere,” said Ellen.

Small ponies had their moments of glory in the opening Smith of Whiteinch National Championships. Jessica Mendoza and Spencer Roe producing heart stopping rounds to become 128cm and 138cm champions riding Get Ready Freddie and Creative Dancer II.

Also claiming brilliant wins in Bingley Hall were Rebecca Walker riding Mysteron, who headed the National 1.15m championship, and Ken Ashe who clinched the Equissage National Discovery championship riding Urlanmore Cavalier.

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Read Horse & Hound’s full report from Scope in 6 September magazine

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Caroline Webley and Geoff Luckett produced flying rounds to clinch the Ladies’ and Gentlemen’s championships.

The gentlemen’s competition went right to the wire, as Geoff Luckett and Chris Moyce’s Pjort cutting every corner to win from last draw.

Early riders Paul Barker and Daniel Neilson had set a fast pace with Quinton and Penshaws Parsons Advocate, but Geoff Luckett pulled out all the stops with a long gallop to the last clinching the Bilton Ward Developments National Gentlemans title.

Combining speed and accuracy also earned victory for Caroline Webley and Joan Willett’s home-bred Barrister QC in the Riverside Air Conditioning National Ladies’ Championship. Penultimate drawn in the ump off, Caroline kicked on to the final fence to pip Victoria Tulloch and Sophie Heaven riding Soliegette and Perth. “We had to gallop all the way, and he locked onto the last fence” said Caroline.

The new partnership of Willliam Whitaker and Kerball won the County Group Under 18 championship. Recent winners at Weston Lawns, the pair set off at speed chasing a fast time set by the Horse & Hound Foxhunter Masters winners Mathew Sampson and Chianti Classico.

“We had to keep everything tight, and he won it on his turns,” said William, who was a member of Britain’s gold medal winning junior European team. A spirited late challenge by Danielle Willett and CC Hook earned them second spot.

Other championship winners on the fourth day of the Festival were:

• Northern Marine Underwriters National 1.30M Classic – Laetitia ridden by Tracy Priest
• Sportaction TV Junior Starspotters – Birchill Dessy ridden by Oliver Evans
• Katherine James 1.0M Novice – Mister Tom IV and Hayley McCaie.
• Squibb & Davies Junior Foxhunter Masters – The Colour of Money with Fionn McSharry). The final tickets to HOYS in this class went to Above and Beyond (Greg Taylor), Abbeyphin Polo (Natasha Jude), R Peroni (Zoe Adams) and Crooky Blue (Ryan Haynes).www.scopebsjafestival.co.ukRead Horse & Hound’s full report from Scope in 6 September magazine

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Matthew Sampson produced a typically determined round in Bingley Hall to win the Horse & Hound Foxhunter Masters riding Chianti Classico.

Already qualified for the prestigious championship at Horse of the Year Show, Matthew dared Duncan Inglis’s agile horse all the way to beat Paul Barker and Ivan Dalton riding Amira II and Lucky De Blondel.

“It was a hot jump off, with some good horses to come, so we had to be fast” said Matthew, who is based with Duncan.

With the top three horses already qualified, the four tickets on offer to Birmingham passed down to Baloubet Nice and Easy (John Renwick), Sonora (Stuart Neads), Angel III (Graham Lovegrove) and Anna Edwards (Unique IX).

The first junior title went to European pony team gold medallist James Smith who produced a flying round from Irish Lethal Weapon to win the Equitrader Junior 1.15M members cup championship. “There were plenty of twists and turns, but he tried all the way” said James.

Another Scottish rider headed the Blue Chip Feed Balancer junior masters, Greg Taylor setting a fast pace with Above and Beyond. “This is our first season at this level, so to win was fantastic” said Kenny, 16.

With several top placed ponies qualified for HOYS, the four tickets to Birmingham went to Nolan (Chantelle Golledge), Orchids Kurran (Megan James), Razorlite II (P Allen) and Crooky Blue (Ryan Haynes).

After competing at the Pony Club Championships at Shelford Manor for the Flamstead Branch just a few days before, Herts rider James Clark and his Irish bred Knocknacarry won the George Babes Young Riders B&C championship in great style. “We just had to keep going forward,” said James.

The final Whittaker Coachbuilders senior riders championship was won at the gallop by last drawn Richard Barton riding Insatiable. Defending champion Bina Ford pocketed an extra £50 by clinching the Woodford Best Turned Out award riding second placed Amoray.

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Read Horse & Hound’s full report from Scope in 6 September magazine

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