A YOUNG MORAY horsewoman has returned from a successful trip to the Pony Club Championships in Cheshire – clutching top honours in Dressage.

Matilda Haley, 14, made her first steps towards a possible Olympic future when she took top honours in the Open Individual Freestyle Dressage to Music competition.

Matilda and ‘Watch Me!’ finished with a score of 77.14% – well ahead of the competition at an event that has been based at Cholmondeley Castle for the last five years.

A delighted Matilda said: “I am so excited and pleased, Watch Me! was amazing. I’m hoping to go to Sheepgate Equestrian for the U25’s championships shortly, then it’s home to Scotland to train for the 2017 season when I hope to move up to Advanced Medium level.”

The youngster expressed particular thanks to Cathy Burrell and her parents who undertook the long drive to Cheshire to offer their support.

The championship showcased an incredible array of up and coming talent across five action packed days, including the Olympic disciplines of Show Jumping, Dressage and Eventing as well as Mounted Games and Polocrosse. Also incorporated were the competitions for Centre Equitation, Musical Ride, and Horse and Pony Care.

Around 400 Pony Club volunteers made the event possible and ensured it ran successfully, delivering an unforgettable experience for those taking part.

Back insideMoray’s bid to continue providing its Community News service in 2017 – visit our Crowdfunding Page for details.