Twelve-year-old equestrian Alice Critchison from Niton has been named the Endurance GB Junior Champion for 2025 after a strong season of national competitions. Riding her pony Pumpkin, she excelled in endurance events that emphasize horse welfare and stamina. Her achievements also earned her the title of Endurance GB Young Volunteer of the Year.
Alice Critchison, a 12-year-old from Niton on the Isle of Wight, has achieved a remarkable milestone in equestrian sports. She was crowned the Endurance GB Junior Champion for 2025 following consistent high performances throughout the season. Competing with her pony, Ashley Kate—affectionately known as Pumpkin—Alice specialized in endurance riding, a discipline that challenges riders and horses over long distances, from 16km introductory rides to elite 160km events in a single day.
Endurance riding prioritizes horse welfare, with regular veterinary inspections during and after rides to confirm the animals' fitness. Alice's success came from her dedication across various UK venues, supported by the Isle of Wight Council's Talented Athlete Scheme. This program provided cross-Solent travel sponsorship from Wightlink, enabling her mainland competitions.
In addition to the championship, Alice was recognized as Endurance GB Young Volunteer of the Year for her efforts in supporting events and assisting organizers. Looking ahead, she has secured a spot on the 2026 Talented Athlete Scheme, which includes continued Wightlink travel support, access to One Leisure facilities, and discounted sports massage and physiotherapy services.
Sam Woodman, Wightlink’s Partnership Marketing Manager, praised her accomplishments: “We are so proud of Alice and pleased that her hard work has been rewarded as she is a very deserving champion. Stories like Alice’s really reinforce why Wightlink is so keen to support the Talented Athlete Scheme, giving Island athletes the support they need to do their very best. We wish Alice and Pumpkin every success for the 2026 Endurance GB season and can’t wait to see what they achieve next.”
Alice expressed her gratitude: “Pumpkin and I had a great year, and I am so proud of what we achieved. I couldn’t have done it without the help of my mum and granny, who are always by my side supporting me with training and events. The support through the Talented Athlete Scheme is also invaluable, especially as all my competitions take place on the mainland. I can’t wait for the 2026 season to begin.”