Navy News
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Royal Navy riders kick up a storm at championships
30 April 2025
Riders from the Royal Navy Equestrian Association put in impressive performances at the RAF Equestrian Championships.
Held at Sparsholt Equine College in Winchester, Hampshire, the event attracted hundreds of riders from across the armed forces and emergency services.
In the prestigious Worshipful Company of Loriners Cup Competition, a series of combined training events featuring Novice level dressage and 1.05m showjumping, the dressage leg saw the Royal Navy secure third place. The competition was fierce with only less than a three percent difference from third and first place, with the RAF taking the win.
A standout moment for the Navy came when Chief Petty Officer Amy Taylor clinched victory in the London International Horse Show Qualifier. Riding her horse True Cavalier ( affectionately known as Clara), Taylor's performance earned her a coveted spot in the upcoming military showjumping final at the LIHS.
The championships also highlighted the team's blend of seasoned and emerging talent. Senior riders provided experience and leadership, while the newcomers brought fresh energy and enthusiasm to the competition, earning a few rosettes themselves!
As the season hits full swing, the Royal Navy Equestrian Team looks forward to building on this success at the next competition, the Army's Royal Tournament.
The Navy team consisted of: Lt Cdr Sarah Taborda, Lt Cdr Jill Monnox, Lt Cdr Michelle Thompson, Surg Lt India John; Lt Katie McManus, Lt Patrick Millington, CPO Amy Taylor, CPO Sophie Fuller, LH Amber Donaldson, L/Cpl Adrienne Frid, L/Cpl Gill Forde, AB Elizabeth Heale and Mne Beth Donnolly. They were supported by Capt Mark Alder, Cdr Jo Bollen, Lt Fleur Spencer, Lt Abigail Pearce and LH Robyn McFadden.