Some of the UK’s best young show jumpers have enjoyed a series of training days prior to selections for the FEI European Pony Championships.

The riders, some of whom are classed as ‘elite’ athletes and some who are newcomers after enjoying success at HOYS, trained together in an unusual move by British Show Jumping.

The youngsters, all aged under 16, descended on the venue for the Championships, Bishop Burton College, along with squad trainer Alan Fazakerley, for three days of intensive training and familiarisation.

On the second day of training they were joined by incoming Chief Executive of British Show Jumping Iain Graham, who confirmed his plans to support the UK’s young talent as much as possible during his tenure.

Mr Graham, who is currently Head of Sport & Development at British Showjumping, explained: “I am planning to support young riders as much as possible by working with the International Team to ensure that we have clear progression and pathways to develop talent and help young show jumpers succeed.”

Clare Whitaker, Chairman of Performance Development at British Show Jumping, was also in attendance to see Alan Fazakerley put the riders through their paces. 

Mr Fazakerley worked with 16 riders over the course of three days to give them the chance to get used to the venue and the facilities and also to get to know him a little better.

He said: “We mustn’t forget that we are working with children and they can sometimes get nervous or anxious so to be able to get to know me and some of the other riders, as well as the host venue is great.

“It gives them a chance to get to know one another and their confidence increases as they do well, or see each other make mistakes.

“I think the facilities here at the College are fantastic and the venue has the potential to host a very good Championships.

“We’ve been working with some courses that have been planned to reflect the style of course designed by Mark McGowan, who has been appointed as Show Jumping course designer.

“It’s been a successful few days and hopefully the riders have found it useful in preparation for the Championships.”

During their visit he young riders also took part in the official press launch of the FEI European Pony Championships.