14/09/2026
Not quite the Nationals post I thought I’d be writing… 💔
After all the preparation and excitement leading up to the National Championships this weekend, I was absolutely devastated to have to withdraw Newt and Prince.
On Thursday morning, one of the horses on the yard became unwell and, as a precaution, our vet had to test for strangles. Until we had the results back, there was simply no question of travelling anywhere with the horses. Their welfare, and that of every horse around us, had to come first.
Unfortunately, despite expecting the results on Friday, which would have meant we could still compete on Saturday and Sunday, we didn’t receive them until this morning. Thankfully, the test was negative and it was a false alarm. The horse concerned had a non-contagious infection, is already back to normal, and we are completely in the clear.
It was just incredibly bad timing and I’m absolutely gutted. The lorry was packed and ready to go, both boys were feeling on such good form and, after all the work that goes into getting horses to a Championship, it was heartbreaking not to get the opportunity to compete.
I was especially disappointed for Aimee and Prince, with this being his first National Championships after qualifying for everything possible this season. A huge thank you to Aimee for being so lovely, kind and understanding throughout what was such a disappointing weekend. ❤️
The photos are from our final lesson with Carl last week, when everything was very much going to plan! Both boys felt on form and I was so excited to get them down the centre line.
Sadly, horses don’t always follow the plans we make for them. This weekend just wasn’t meant to be, but I’m incredibly proud of Newt and Prince for getting there in the first place, and very grateful that ultimately everyone at home is healthy and well.
