SIX pupils from an independent school in Winchester made their mark at a national equestrian competition.

The St Swithun’s girls travelled from their school in Alresford Road to compete in the National Schools Equestrian Association (NSEA) Eventers Challenge on Sunday, March 26.

The competition tested skill and endurance, with competitors required to complete a course of 18 jumps in a specific order of eight show jumping and eight cross country jumps, without any refusals or knocking over any poles. A clear round is necessary to qualify. 

In the 70-75cm Eventers Challenge, St Swithun’s team, consisting of Scarlet M, Connie L, Isla E, and Alanna B, emerged victorious, qualifying for the next round.

Hampshire Chronicle:

Scarlet M also came second in the individual event, while Connie L secured fourth place with both qualifying for the next round.  

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In the 80-85cm category St Swithun’s, this time made up of Scarlet M, Isabella W, Isla E and Alanna B, won again and qualified for the next round.

Scarlet M once again took second place in the individual event, while Isabella W came fourth with both qualifying for the next round.  

PE teacher Carolyn Milles said: "We are delighted with the performance of our students at the NSEA Eventers Challenge.

“It is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and talent. We look forward to seeing them compete at Hickstead and wish them all the best." 

The next round of the NSEA Eventers Challenge, at Hickstead, will see the St Swithun’s equestrian team compete against other schools to secure a place in the finals. They join Isabella W and Isabelle C who qualified for the show jumping portion of the event earlier this year.