Connie Mensley Takes the Win in the Penultimate Blue Chip Pony Newcomers Second Round at Kelsall Hill
Wednesday 16 July 2025
The Summer Pony Premier at Kelsall Hill Equestrian hosted the penultimate Blue Chip Pony Newcomers Second Round of 2025, as young riders and their ponies vied for a coveted spot in the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) final. An impressive 73 riders entered the arena, each hoping to advance through the rounds and ultimately secure their ticket to HOYS.
The initial round saw 36 of the starting combinations jump clear, advancing to the second round, where a challenging course halved the field ahead of the final jump-off. There, the remaining 18 riders gave it their all, racing against the clock in a bid to cross the finish line in the fastest time.
Third-last to jump, Connie Mensley—riding Alison McDonald’s Luna’s Star—galloped her way around the shortened course in a time of 37.44 seconds, a time that could not be matched. Gracie Maw, with Amy Maw’s Creggaun Sparrow Dun, came agonisingly close, finishing just 0.01 seconds behind the leader whilst Hollie Gerken slotted Jade Gerken’s NFS Doris Day into third place, a further 0.49 seconds adrift.
Speaking about her win, a delighted Connie said: “She jumped really well in the first two rounds, and I knew we would have to be quick in the jump-off, but she took it all in her stride. It was a pretty competitive jump-off, but I knew we had a chance as she is so quick.
“We did our first HOYS qualifier together last year, and this is the first Championship Final at HOYS that we’ve qualified for—so I’m really excited. We’ve had her since she was a two-year-old and produced her ourselves, so it’s a really special achievement. She’s such a lovely mare, very chilled, and always tries her best,” added Connie.
Kelsall Hill Equestrian Centre - Saturday, 12 July 2025
Blue Chip Pony Newcomers Second Round
1st – Connie Mensley & Luna’s Star – 0/0/0 37.44 seconds
2nd – Gracie Maw & Creggaun Sparrow Dun – 0/0/0 37.45 seconds
3rd – Hollie Gerken & NFS Doris Day – 0/0/0 37.94 seconds
NB: Results pending official grading.
Image: Jasmine Punter Photography
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