Blaze a trail to Stoneleigh finals
The national finals of the Trailblazers show jumping and dressage series, sponsored by South Essex Insurance Brokers and supported by Horse & Hound, will take place at the National Agricultural Centre at Stoneleigh on 14-16 September.
Unaffiliated riders of all ages have flocked to show jumping and dressage trailblazer competitions held at PSOA (Professional Show Organisers Association) centres around the country.
“The series has beenextremely well received by show centres and unaffiliated competitors alike,” explains PSOA representative Norman Bargh. “Obviously it was a difficult start to the year with FMD, but the enthusiasm for the series remained and we expect to have around 400riders at the finals.”
Riders with two clear rounds in the 75cms to 1.05m show jumping classes or a score of 58% or more in the preliminary, novice and elementary level dressage competitions go forward to second round competitions where the top two riders in each section qualify for the Stoneleigh finals.
The full range of prizes at the finals, which will not include prize money due to BSJA rules, is yet to be confirmed. However, it is expected that class winners receive a perpetual challenge trophy, as well as Horse & Hound rugs, sashes and rosettes. Riders who are placed in each section will receive commemorative medals.
First round outdoor competitions are being held by show centres around the country, with numerous centres applying to hold qualifiers in the future.
“While we welcome applications from show centres who are interested in holding qualifiers, centres must be able to maintain the high standard both the PSOA and our competitors expect,” says Norman.
Never miss out on the latest happenings in the equestrian world
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
Carol is an experienced journalist and editor, who is also a passionate amateur rider and dedicated horse owner, having ridden since childhood. She has a particular interest in the emotional well-being and ethical training of horses, alongside veterinary matters, having garnered extensive first-hand experience of numerous equine health conditions through more than 30 years of horse ownership.