Burnham Market once again provided a top-class stage for rising talent, with two British Eventing youth riders delivering standout performances against strong competition.
Alice Gates took top honours in the OIu21 section aboard her brilliant mare Shanbeg Pandora, while Elizabeth Barrett finished as the highest placed Young Rider in the CCI3-S*, continuing a fantastic season with her mare Georgina W.
Alice Gates & Shanbeg Pandora
Alice and 12-year-old Shanbeg Pandora – affectionately known as Panda – impressed across all three phases to claim the OIu21 win.
“Panda and I had a great run at the fantastic event that is Burnham Market. She is a true professional and is so clever in all three phases,” said Alice. “I’ve had her for 3.5 years, so we’ve built a proper partnership, which I was proud to hear Lucinda Green pick up on during her Horse & Country TV live XC commentary.”
The pair produced the fastest cross-country round across all intermediate sections, a testament to their bravery and connection.
“I was most pleased with the bravery and accuracy Panda showed cross-country, also the fluency that helped us achieve the fastest time.”
Alice now has her sights firmly set on the National Young Rider Championships at Bicton (CCI3*-L) and ultimately hopes for GB Young Rider European selection.
“I find being part of the BE Youth Programme a great chance to compete in age classes and to make friends at similar stages, while also having access to a support network of coaches and other officials.”
Elizabeth Barrett & Georgina
In the competitive CCI3-S*, Elizabeth Barrett and Georgina W proved their progress with a classy performance that placed them as the top-placed Young Rider in the section.
“I was thrilled with Georgina at Burnham Market. I have had her for just over two years now and she has come on so much in that time,” Elizabeth said.
Their strong cross-country performance reflected the hard work they’ve put into their partnership.
“I was so pleased with her cross-country round and how brave and bold she felt. She really trusted me, which we’ve worked on a lot over the last year.”
Elizabeth is now preparing for CCI3-L at Jardy* before a potential step up to 4* later this season.
“She’s not the easiest mare but is so talented, so it is very rewarding when it all comes together on the same day!”
These results are a fantastic reflection of the depth of talent within the BE Youth Programme, and we look forward to following both riders as they continue to progress toward their goals this season.
Find out more about our Youth Programme here
