Smith back on track for top level with Aintree win

SOUTH YORKSHIRE showjumper Scott Smith is aiming to get back to top level competition with his new ride Quintus and the pair proved to be on good form at Aintree Equestrian Centre at the weekend.

The former British team member, who is based at Thorne near Doncaster, is heading for next year's Royal International after qualifying at the British Showjumping Premier show.

"We had a fantastic win in a class of 90 horses with only two qualifying places," said a delighted Smith.

He believes Quintus has Olympic potential and is particularly keen to make a comeback with this horse.

OVER 220 riders took part in the recent Hallowe'en Hunter Trial at Thornton Lodge Country Sports near Easingwold.

Everything about the competition was spooky – from the jumps to the riders' outfits and even some of the horses. Everybody joined in the fun and there were special prizes for the fancy dress.

The winners of the different sections were: Minimus, Jess Moules and Texas; Junior Novice, Eve Headley and Jazz 2; Senior Novice, Jane Wood and Puzzle; Pairs, Beth Robson and Hill Mist and Elisa Phillips and Brandy Snap; Open, Georgina Woodcock and Moussec.