TopSpec Chasers Challenge Final Proves Popular 6th November 2009
The Chasers Challenge Final at Catton Park in Derbyshire was a huge success with competitors travelling from all over the country to take part.

Supported by TopSpec, this year competitors ranged in age from nine to 77 with the youngest rider Leah Cooper managing a creditable sixth place in the Junior Minimus.

The most senior rider Alan Evans came second in the Open with the first five riders all clear only time separating them. Sarah Beattie in first place was just 14 seconds off the bogey time a very well judged ride.

TopSpec provided prizes for the occasion with winners receiving a bag of TopSpec LeisureTime Feed Balancer and money off vouchers being awarded to second and third placed finalists.

The age range demonstrates one of the great attractions of the Challenge, as did the pairs class with parents paired with children and horses with ponies.

Louise Thorpe paired with her daughter Harriet finished second and being asked at the finish how it went Harriet was quick to answer: “I did better than Mum.”

The best matched pair selected by the commentator were Kate and Charlotte Dennis who finished sixth on their pair of ponies.

Another feature the riders seemed to like is the fact that no rider is eliminated, after three refusals they carry on and complete the whole course.

Open competitor Claudia Richardson said: “I have had a great day, with setting was beautiful, with excellent jumps and very well organised, I will definitely be back next year.”

Added David Talbot of UK Chasers & Riders: “We set great store in helping riders enjoy their horses and ponies more and seeing the reaction of the riders at the event we are certainly achieving that aim. One wise spectator remarked that it was not about winning, pleasant as that maybe, it is about improving on your own personal best each time you compete. That sums up this event very well.

“We would like to thank Robin and Kate Neilson, the owners of Catton Park, and Erica Byrne the organiser with her cheerful and very competent team for a great day, as well as TopSpec for the wonderful prizes.”

Picture Captions

Class 1 – Winner Amanda King with Corrie Green of TopSpec.

Class 2a – A delighted Kayley Brookesbank with Corrie Green of TopSpec after winning the Junior Novice section.

Class 4 – Open winner Sarah Beattie being presented with her prizes by Corrie Green of TopSpec.