Having qualified for the Championships some months ago, there were a few changes to the Burgess Hill team heading up to Addington on Saturday 22nd October.

Unfortunately, the team were missing a member; Rachael Hawkins, who was recovering from an injury, so the team was made up of just three Year 8 riders; Johanna Lawless, Alice Reffin and Sarah Rogers.  Alice's younger sister, Eleanor Reffin, became the team mascot, groom and tack cleaner and was a brilliant helper throughout the weekend.

Mrs Rogers said, "The girls' excitement as we eventually drove into the venue, was wonderful to witness and will be a memory that will stay with me for a very long time."

"At this point the girls all agreed that it was a fantastic achievement just to be there and they were all going to enjoy every minute of the weekend. Having said that, they all felt very sorry that Rachael was missing out on all the fun."

After unloading ponies, and a quick hack round the grounds, the girls settled the ponies into their stables and headed off to the B&B for supper and an early night (although X Factor viewing was a must!)

The team headed back to the stables early the next morning and then the real fun began! There was frantic plaiting, tack cleaning, reading through tests and scrubbing and polishing of ponies!

Sarah was first to compete. She was riding a borrowed pony whom she had only ridden a few times. Although they rode a very accurate test it was not their day - she later found out that Star had bruised the sole of her hoof.  Although Sarah was disappointed, her team mates rallied round and put everything into perspective!

Next up was Johanna riding DJ. They rode a fantastic test and the huge grin on Johanna's face was certainly infectious!

The girls had a two hour wait as Alice did a novice test. Alice did Burgess Hill proud by riding a very accurate test which was rather complicated.  The team and their parents were so proud of her and Blue for completing the test with no major mistakes.

The standard of competition was extremely high.  A big well done to the girls for their sportsmanship and team spirit.  Although they were not placed as a team, Johanna managed an incredible 70% and secured 2nd place individually.  Well done, Johanna!

At the end of a very tiring weekend the girls were all in great spirits and concluded that trying to qualify for next year was a must!

The Burgess Hill Dressage Team

11/11/11