STUDENTS in the Ampleforth College Equestrian Team have been demonstrating their dressage prowess at the school’s annual Exhibition Weekend.

Two students, Freddie Fawcett and Georgina Prest, became the first riders to take part in the event since the school started in 1802.

Freddie wrote two tests, one for Georgina to perform which included basic dressage movements, and then Freddie went on to perform a more technical test, showing more advanced dressage movements.

As soon as they entered the Arena, the thunder and lightning started. Neither horses nor riders were unsettled by this, the clouds and storm soon passed and they performed the demonstration in front of an appreciative audience.

The pair are members of the Schools NSEA (National Schools Equestrian Association) team representing Ampleforth College. The team consists of 20 members from both St Martins and Ampleforth College, and they regularly take part in NSEA competitions in North Yorkshire.

The School have had teams qualified for the NSEA National Championships held at Addington Manor for the past two years in Dressage, Show Jumping and Arena Eventing.

The Ampleforth College Equestrian Team has enjoyed a number of successes in recent months, including at the National Schools Equestrian Association competitions.

Equestrianism is one of the 50 extra-curricular activities available to students at the College and provides an opportunity for students to take part in riding and Polo lessons.

Those who live locally with their own horses can also represent the College in Dressage, Show Jumping and Eventing competitions.