Celebrating Amateur Equestrian Excellence: The 2024 SEIB Search For A Star Finals
On November 8, 2024, the SEIB Search For A Star (SFAS) finals took center stage at Your Horse Live, solidifying its reputation as a staple of the UK's equestrian calendar. This renowned competition has offered a platform for amateur equestrians to exhibit their skills and the superb talents of their horses for over two decades. With a rich history and inspiring stories, the event is nothing short of a spectacle. Let's gallop through the details and get to know this year's remarkable winners.
Diverse Categories and Exceptional Winners
The 2024 SFAS finals were a parade of diversity, showcasing the multitude of skills possessed by both riders and their equine counterparts. Let's saddle up and meet some of the standout winners.
In-Hand Veteran Title
Winning the in-hand veteran title was Lucy Ashworth's trusted steed, Randall IV. This 26-year-old former international showjumper, who could very well have a tale or two about the good old days, is proof of the enduring partnership and dedication that Ashworth and her equine companion share.
Plaited Horse and Show Cob Category
If you've ever doubted that age is just a number, take a cue from Midnight's Magic. Donna Hoe led this 28-year-old gelding to victory in the plaited horse and show cob category. Midnight's Magic, clearly living up to his name, showcased the longevity and flexibility of horses within the equestrian realm.
Pony Club Classes
Treworgan Titanium, a Dartmoor gelding, executed a clean sweep by winning both the in-hand and lead-rein Pony Club classes. Ridden by Jessica and Molly Bowring, this gelding demonstrated its versatility and excellence, turning heads and raising the bar for all things pony-related.
British Riding Club Title
Securing the inaugural British Riding Club title was Daisy Beards on Spinway Colm, representing Stoneleigh Riding Club with pride. This extraordinary achievement highlighted the tireless effort of both Daisy and her club, and possibly included a celebratory carrot or two for Spinway Colm.
A Platform for Amateur Excellence
The SEIB Search For A Star competition is a launching pad for amateur equestrian talent, offering an acknowledgment of the hard work, dedication, and relentless passion of these home-producers. Away from the limelight, they labor diligently to prepare their horses, and this competition serves as their well-deserved moment in the spotlight.
Seasoned Competitors and Rising Stars
In this competition, veterans and newbies stood side by side. Among the seasoned winners was Gallifrey, an 18-year-old cob that snatched victory in the open veteran ridden category, reaffirming that seasoned horses have the stamina and charisma to win hearts. Meanwhile, rising stars like Emilia Stone, riding Brynseion Montague in the open Pony Club class, proved that the future of equestrian sport is in safe, eager hands.
The Legacy of SEIB Search For A Star
Organized by SEIB Insurance Brokers, the Search For A Star competition is a testament to the robust commitment that SEIB has towards the equestrian community. The competition is part of their ethos to "putting something back" by supporting a plethora of events. Besides giving amateur riders a stage to shine, it serves as a source of inspiration for potential future participants, encouraging them to aim high in the world of horse shows.
Conclusion
Marking yet another successful year, the 2024 SEIB Search For A Star finals at Your Horse Live shone a spotlight on the crème de la crème of amateur equestrian talent. Celebrating the unbreakable bonds between riders and their horses, this event underscored the dedication required to prepare for such esteemed competitions. As the equestrian community looks fervently towards future events, the SEIB Search For A Star remains a beacon of inspiration and excellence.
For more information on the competition, visit the Horse & Hound website.
