True test of ability

Press, 6 November 1984, Page 40

True test of ability

The Nydfa and Branston Cups, decided in the three sections of riding, turnout and unity, are a prestigious award attracting larger entries each year. They provide a true test of the ability of the rider to bring out the best show qualifies of his or her mount, and are held to encourage young riders turn out a first class saddle horse. Only snaffle bits are permitted. The cups are held in three age groups — junior, 13 and under-15 years; intermediate 15 and under-17 years; and senior, 17 and under-20 years — and the popularity of the competitions can be gauged from the big entry of 38 in the junior section. All three age groups are judged simultaneously, and riders in each section move from ring to ring at the completion of each phase. Last year, Julie Srhoy (Ashburton) won the senior Nydfa challenge cup; this time, her sister, Carole, will compete instead. Last year’s winners are eligible to compete again,

but with a penalty of 10 points. The judging of each phase is expected to take about 30 minutes.