The Bank Holiday weekend saw equestrian rider Larissa Brown (Year 9) travel to the prestigious All England Showground at Hickstead, near Brighton, for the National Schools Equestrian Association (NSEA) Championships, held from 24 to 26 May.

Young riders from across the country came together to compete in junior, senior and Pony Club team and individual events.

Representing BGS, Larissa competed in the 90cm championships on her horse Gigi (official name Kiss Me HdH), having qualified earlier this year by placing first in the county at a show in January. The championships are a major annual event celebrating the accomplishments of young riders and their horses and ponies.

This was Larissa and Gigi’s first show in four months following an extended period of rehabilitation for Gigi due to injury. While they did not place in the main championship class, they performed strongly in two additional classes, achieving double clears in both – a fantastic result after Gigi’s recovery.

Larissa’s sister, Evelyn (Year 7), has also been competing for BGS in NSEA events, taking part in show jumping and arena eventing. Riding her pony Honey, Evelyn narrowly missed out on qualifying for Hickstead but still achieved some excellent results.

We are proud of both students for their commitment and composure, and for representing BGS with such spirit.