Twelve-year-old Amelia Dovey from Worcestershire claimed two under-21 dressage titles at the Petplan Winter Area Festival Championships at Addington Equestrian from 15 to 19 April. Other young riders also triumphed in the six decided classes, including Sophia Parry with a hat-trick pony and Freddie Spicer crossing from eventing. Scores topped 70% in several categories.
Amelia Dovey won the elementary silver under-21 class on Pencwarre Butty Bach, known as Buddy, with 70%. She followed up in the novice silver under-21 on Artists Ambassador, or Bear, owned by Hannah Dovey, scoring 69.06% despite the pony's attempt to exit the arena. “They’re totally different,” Amelia said. “Buddy is very playful... Bear wants to be in your face and space all the time. ” Neve Moran placed second on Clareville Golden Knight at 68.28%, and Olivia Staples third on Celton Orsino at 68.11% in that class. Sophia Parry, 16 from Conwy, rode Caramelle to victory in the novice bronze under-21 with 70.17%, marking the pony's third straight title despite a new rider. “It’s insane,” Parry said. “I’ve never felt anything like it.” Abigail Harrington took second on Pauldary’s Alia at 69.11%, with Beth Harrison third on Garthfach Whisky Rocks at 68.94%. Lilly-Ella Newcombe from North Yorkshire won the elementary bronze under-21 on Lagos at 70.26%. Freddie Spicer from Warwickshire claimed the prelim bronze under-21 on Cityview Moving On at 70%, adding a third on Carrigoir Spidal. Lola Rega topped prelim silver under-21 on five-year-old Llynhelyg Gambler at 69.68%, with Dovey second on Artists Ambassador.