Macy Stokes and Oleios Amigo Shine at Pickering Grange STX-UK Pony British Novice Second Round

The STX-UK Pony British Novice Second Round at Pickering Grange Equestrian delivered an exciting day of competition at the weekend, as 27 rider combinations came forward to take on Naomi McAleese’s well-designed track. 

The course proved influential throughout the opening rounds, with riders needing accuracy and consistency to keep qualification hopes alive. Only 11 combinations managed to produce the all-important double clears to secure their place in the jump-off. 

Leading the way in the final round was Macy Stokes riding Gina Stokes’ Oleios Amigo. The pair produced a quick and confident clear round, stopping the clock in an impressive 30.46 seconds to claim victory. 

Second place went to Conor Barnes aboard Errismore Dark Shadow, who also delivered a superb clear in the jump-off to finish in 32.67 seconds. 

Completing the top three was Seren Gore riding Ned’s Choice, adding another stylish clear to finish in a time of 34.07 seconds. 

“Macy has only had Ollie three months, and he’s only been registered for less than two months. We were quite happy just to get to the second rounds in such a short space of time. Macy just went into the qualifier hoping for a top ten finish. We had no expectation to win, Ollie is quite a step up for Macy who is only twelve, and he’s 148cm. The pony is quite a lot bigger than Macy is used to, so she’s been struggling a little bit with the turns previously. Ollie is a real part of the family already. He’s like a big dog he follows you around, Macy likes spending time with him in the field playing around, so they already have a great bond. He loves the attention. 

“Pickering Grange is one of our local venues, but it was a big class so Macy thought she might as well give it a go and was quite surprised when she realised their time was up there with the more experienced competitors in the jump off. To be honest the course didn’t really suit them as there were lots of turns which they have been struggling with, but Macy went in determined and they did it.  We are all really looking forward to the Championships and would like to aim for the Bronze League final too, which would be great in their first year together.”  Said Gina, Macy’s mum. 

Following another competitive Second Round, qualified combinations will now turn their attention towards the British Showjumping National Championships in August, where the country’s leading pony riders will battle it out for national honours. 

STX-UK Pony British Novice Second Round 

Pickering Grange Equestrian, Sunday 10 May 2026 

1st – Macy Stokes & Oleios Amigo – 0/0/0 30.46 

2nd – Conor Barnes & Errismore Dark Shadow – 0/0/0 32.67 

3rd – Seren Gore & Ned’s Choice – 0/0/0 34.07 

NB: Results pending official grading 

Image: Barry Barnard Photography