For many Members, the Side Saddle Rider of the Year Title, achieved by qualifying throughout the year and competing in the relevant classes at the National Side Saddle Show is the ultimate aim and pinnacle of their season. Once again a high level of horsemanship and turnout standards abounded at the show this year.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2024 RIDER OF THE YEAR EMILY SAUNDERS.

The winner in 2024 was Emily Saunders who was competing in her second ride off. Emily was riding Cavalier’s Laidback Luca owned by Joanna Saunders. Emily started riding side saddle in 2019 as something to do with her hunter, Joey aka Curdons Reddy Teddy, throughout the summer months and also to have the extra challenge of learning to hunt side saddle. Joey ended up being a brilliant side saddle horse and the pair of them flew up though the levels. They tackled hedges out hunting, hunt relays, gate jumping competitions, showjumping and so much more. In 2021 Emily had her first try at equitation, straight into the open level, much to everyone’s surprise she placed 4th overall gaining her a place in the ride off! Luca came into the picture only 9 months ago! Emily has known Luca since his old owner imported him as a green 4 year old straight from Ireland 10 years ago. Emily actually used to compete him showjumping when he was a 5 and 6 year old, he was hugely talented back then and has been beautifully schooled and produced over the years, so when the opportunity to purchase him came a long it was a no brainer! He’s has taken to side saddle wonderfully and despite still being a touch green to it he always tried his hardest to please and get the answers right! He has won every equitation qualifying class he’s been in this season!

2024 RIDERS OF THE YEAR AND CHAMPIONSHIP WINNERS

The Side Saddle Rider of the Year 2024
EMILY SAUNDERS
Riding Cavalier's Laidback Luca owned by Joanna Saunders

Adult Intermediate Champion 2024
MORGAN NICHOLSON
Riding Back Seat Driver owned by Rider

Adult Novice Champion 2024 See
HANNAH TERNDRUP
Riding Champagne Dominator owned by Sarah Terndrup

The Junior Rider of the Year 2024
LILY WILLIAMS-MUSITANO
Riding Moon Solitaire owned by Karen Williams

Junior Young Rider Open Champion 2024
XANTHE BANKS
Riding BizzieB owned by Jackie Banks

Junior Novice & Young Rider Champion 2024
HARRIETT RUSSELL
Riding Worsenden Martha owned by Neil and Nicola Russel

Cygnet Champion 2024
TILLY JACKSON
Riding Hightopps Someone Special owned by Hazel Jackson

PHOTOS WITH KIND PERMISSION OF KB PHOTOGRAPHY