Iwan Carpenter and Ramiro Dollar Claim GFS Saddles Senior Newcomers Championship Second Round Victory at Wales and West

A competitive field of 90 rider combinations came forward for the GFS Saddles Senior Newcomers Championship Second Round at Wales and West Showground at the weekend, all hoping to secure their qualification for the next stage of the prestigious championship pathway. 

Designed by Rafael Suarez, the technical track proved a true test from the outset, with riders needing precision and consistency to progress. Despite the large starting field, only seven combinations managed to produce those all-important clears through the opening two rounds to secure their place in the jump-off. 

Emerging victorious was Iwan Carpenter aboard Julie Smith’s Ramiro Dollar, who delivered a superb clear round against the clock in 38.71 seconds to take the win. 

Hot on his heels was Gemma Ellison riding Gold Survivor, who also jumped a fantastic clear round, stopping the clock just fractions behind in 39.09 seconds to claim second place. 

Third place went to Yazmin Davis with Odysseus Z after another impressive clear performance in a time of 42.50 seconds. 

With qualification secured, sights are now firmly set on the GFS Saddles Senior Newcomers Masters at the British Showjumping National Championships this August, as riders continue their journey towards the highly anticipated final at the Horse of the Year Show. 

GFS Saddles Senior Newcomers Championship Second Round 

Wales and West, Saturday 23 May 2026 

1st – Iwan Carpenter & Ramiro Dollar – 0/0/0 38.71 

2nd – Gemma Ellison & Gold Survivor – 0/0/0 39.09 

3rd – Yazmin Davis & Odysseus Z – 0/0/0 42.50 

NB: Qualifications will be updated pending official grading of results.  

Image: Showground Photography