Final Blue Chip Pony Newcomers Second Round competition sees victory for Tara Sweetnam

Monday 29 July 2024

The last Blue Chip Pony Newcomer Second Round competition took place this weekend at Wales and West, ahead of the Masters at the British Showjumping National Championships, which will give riders a final opportunity to qualify for the Final at Horse of the Year Show.

84 pony and rider combinations entered the class, which consisted of three rounds of jumping, culminating in a jump-off against the clock. As the rounds progressed, the number of participants reduced to just seven starters in the final jump-off.

The fastest clear round was jumped by Tara Sweetnam on Babylon Bae, who stopped the clock at 41.04 seconds. Tara's strategic use of tight turns and efficient lines paid off. Reflecting on her winning round, Tara said, “Going into the jump-off, we discussed using tight turns and keeping her moving between the distances. While waiting at the gate, we noticed a lot of riders cutting inside the double. We quickly decided to try it, luckily nice strides came up for me which I am grateful for! I didn’t expect to win or be the fastest.”

Tara, who only started riding Babylon Bae last October, shared more about her journey with the pony: “We bought her for my sister, but with her GCSEs, I took over the riding. Before Kelsall, we hadn’t done a jump-off with her, and we thought she might be a bit slow as she’s young, turning six in October. I usually hold her back, I’ve had time faults before, so we didn’t expect her to qualify, we expected there to be a lot of clears and we were just going to do as best we could to qualify.”

Second place was claimed by Alfie Diaper on PJV Bella, with a swift triple clear in 42.49 seconds. Maisie Farnham secured third place, also completing on a clean sheet.

Blue Chip Pony Newcomers - Second Round
Wales and West Showground

1st - Tara Sweetnam and Babylon Bae - 0/0/0 41.04
2nd - Alfie Diaper and PJV Bella - 0/0/0 42.49
3rd - Maisie Farnham and Simon IV - 0/0/0 44.50

NB Results pending official grading

Images: Showground Photography

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