The third 608 Equine Vets Diddy One Day Event took place last weekend at Solihull Riding Club, welcoming another fantastic turnout of riders for a day filled with confidence-building competition, sportsmanship and plenty of smiles.
Despite the recent spell of hot weather, the cross-country course was presented in excellent condition thanks to the hard work of course builder Mitch and the grounds team, who spent the days leading up to the event carefully watering the course to ensure it looked and rode at its very best.
Throughout the day, riders of all ages and abilities enjoyed a supportive atmosphere, with many visibly growing in confidence as the competition progressed. It was equally rewarding to see so many happy ponies enjoying their day out, highlighting the welcoming nature of the series.
The Diddy One Day Event series has been specifically designed for riders who may not yet feel ready to tackle a full British Eventing cross-country course, which traditionally begins at 70cm. With classes starting from just 40cm, the series offers an accessible introduction to the sport, allowing riders to develop their skills in a safe and encouraging environment.
Additional support is available throughout the competition, with juniors in the 40cm and 50cm classes able to receive assistance on course, while callers are permitted for all riders during the dressage phase. These measures help create a relaxed and confidence-building experience, making the series an ideal stepping stone into eventing.
There is plenty to compete for across the series, with the top 10 combinations in each class qualifying for the Diddy One Day Event Championships, which will take place in September.
Attention now turns to the final qualifying event on Friday, 8 August, where riders will have one last opportunity to secure their place at the Championships, which will take place in September. Competitors are encouraged to enter early to avoid disappointment and be part of another memorable day celebrating grassroots eventing.
Entries for the final qualifier are now open, and everyone looks forward to welcoming riders back for another enjoyable and rewarding day of competition – www.myridinglife.com/eventdetails.aspx?id=554728
Congratulations to all the winners:
40cm Unassisted Junior
⭐Chloe Hadley-Farnan & Berr Hall Maximum
40cm Senior
⭐ Sophia Odell & Bob
50cm Assisted Junior
⭐ Susanna Henry & Angel
50cm Unassisted Junior
⭐ Olivia Bartlett & Foxhills Firestorm
50cm Senior
⭐ Beth Odell & Spirit
60cm Junior
⭐ Arabella Gillespie & Peachhaven Bewitched
60cm Senior
⭐Pippa Wollen & Tommy
70cm Junior
⭐ Darcey Edwards & Portmead Ballerina
70cm Senior
⭐ Gillian Hasberry & St Flannans Grainne
A big thank you to all our volunteers and officials who helped make the day run smoothly.
Full results can be found on Solihull-Results
📸View your photos from the day by Top Shots Photography
Thank you again to our wonderful sponsor this year, 608 Equine and Farm Vets – Their highly qualified team of equine vets offer the complete ambulatory service for you and your horse at your very own yard. This includes digital radiography and ultrasound, lameness investigation, airway endoscopy, stud services and mesotherapy, all at your doorstep.
Have a look of what they do: https://www.608equineandfarmvets.com/
