MALTON School had a successful day at Northallerton Equestrian Centre last Sunday with the first of the qualifying rounds and regional showjumping championships of the inter-schools grass roots competitions, NSEA.

The grass roots NSEA is sponsored by the Pony magazine and the competition is a stepping stone for riders who have had no or little experience on the competition circuit.

Malton School sent out two teams and two individuals, all of which were either having their first ever taste of a competition or having their first go, as a team participant.

Anna Stephenson riding Ozzie was having her first ever competition and managed a very creditable third place in the 50cms. Alice Jeffrey riding Honey, Edward Lyon riding Mr Sebastian and Edwin Jackson riding Irish Princess made up the team “A” for the qualifier, all went round with fantastic clear rounds to win the qualifying class for the championship. Team “B” comprising of Pippa Pillow riding Teena, Chloe Allen riding Bonny and Hannah Lamb riding Morning Mist, managed to take second place.

A very happy bunch of team mates went through to the championship round feeling full of confidence and up for a challenge. Malton team “A”, Alice, Edwin and Edward this time were to be crowned regional champions, with individual placings for team “B”. This was followed up with a celebratory picnic of the Malton competitor and crew.

Sarah Lyon, who is the Malton school organiser for the NSEA competitions, said: “It was lovely to see all the children and parents coming together and supporting each other and to have first and second been the icing on the cake.” Any pupil at Malton School wishing to take part in the grass roots or the bigger NSEA classes can contact Sarah through the Malton school office.