Princess Royal unveils Bishop Burton’s new state-of-the-art campus

publication date: Oct 29, 2008
Download Print Send a summary of this page to someone via email.
Previous | Next
 

The Princess, a keen horsewoman famous for her equestrian achievements including competing at the Montreal Olympics in 1976, was invited to the College to open its £3million equine indoor arena and its state-of-the-art Learning Resource Centre.

During her visit The Princess was able to watch The Princess awarding 2nd place rosette to Bishop Burton learner Holly Smeaton and Robbie
a demonstration in the College’s outdoor
riding school by Level One learners who were practising a range of riding skills, while in the new indoor arena the College was hosting a Pro-Am Show Jumping Competition.

BBC commentator Stephen Hadley lent his voice to the event, while the course was designed by renowned British Show Jumping Association course builder Di Boddy. The Princess presented the rosettes to the top three pairs.

Jumps were imported from Europe for the competition, which featured professional riders such as Carl Curtis, Matthew Wright, Gary Parsonage, Morgan Kent, James Hughes, Matthew Boddy and David Clarkson.

Bishop Burton learner Jodie Ward was also selected to compete as a Pro rider on her Nation’s Cup horse Caloux Z. The 16 professional riders rode in teams of two with 16 of the College’s own learners. The winning team were Laura Neilson and student Becky Pass on Dream On II with a combined score of 83.37.

NVQ Level One learner Sara Wellard who had been involved in the outdoor demonstration was chosen to present a bouquet to the Princess.

Following the Pro-Am competition a speed round was held on the same course. The round was won by local rider Gary Parsonage on Peterstreet with a score of 46.3.

Many dignitaries and partners of the College were invited to attend a celebratory luncheon in the arena’s hospitality area, including representatives from Leeds Metropolitan University, Yorkshire Forward, the Learning and Skills Council, and many leading lights from the equestrian world.

The College is now looking forward to the second ‘phase’ of redevelopment which includes a new sports academy building with gymnasium, sports hall and changing facilities. Bishop Burton’s new ‘3G’ all-weather sports pitch has just been opened for public use.