Larisa Cathro rode to victory in the 80cm final at the Harry Hall One Club ‘Anyone Can Event’ (ACE) Scotland Championships aboard her 12-year-old Murrisk Countess (‘Cindy’) (pictured above).
Hosted by the Scottish National Equestrian Centre, it was the first time this arena eventing-style competition had taken place on Scottish soil and four champions were crowned in total.
The series runs from winter to spring and there are multiple qualifiers around the country at a variety of height classes from 70cm to 1m for riders aged 10 and up.
“She was so good today,” said Larisa of her 16hh dark bay mare. “It’s actually Cindy’s birthday today. She’s 12 now and has had the best day. Thanks so much to the organisers.”
A late Christmas present
A new mount carried Coral Black to victory in the 100cm final. The rider has only had Leandro VD Eikelboscherheide — a 16.1hh, 14-year-old gelding known as Leo at home — since Christmas.
“I’ve had Leo since Christmas and “We’ve not done that much to date — but this win is a fantastic late festive present,” said Coral.
In the 90cm ranks, Claire Johnstone triumphed aboard her 11-year-old mare Hanleen Armani.
“Armani is a lovely horse — I’ve had her for six years,” said Claire. “Through confidence issues and more, she’s stayed with me, and today’s victory is unexpected but lovely.”
Amy McDonald riding 10-year-old Beechmount Anna claimed the 70cm title. The rider has partnered the 14.1hh mare for six years.
“I’ve had Anna since I was 11 and she was four, and she’s just fabulous,” smiled Amy. “It’s been great to learn together, which makes today’s win even more special.”
‘Very impressive rounds’
“Congratulations to all of our worthy Scottish finalists and winners. There were some very impressive rounds which bodes well for the start of our Scottish eventing season at Kirriemuir next weekend,” said Scotland Chair, Grace Moran.
“Next year’s ACE championship has already been booked for 29th March 2026, so I would encourage Scottish eventers to note that date, and get out at ACE qualifiers later this year.”
Harry Hall CEO Liz Hopper added: “The championships at SNEC were a brilliant success and the feedback from the participants has been that it’s a fantastic competition and environment for riders of varying ages and abilities to have a go at arena style eventing.
“The expansion into Scotland is a testament to the popularity of the ACE series.”
The next ACE championships will take place at Aintree Equestrian Centre in June.
