Marlborough College's Jemima Stratton wins National Jumping Championship
Jemima and prize (Photo: Julian Portch) A young rider from Marlborough College has been crowned individual senior winner at the Hurstpierpoint College National Schools and Pony Club Jumping Championships (August 4).
Jemima Stratton, who lives in Salisbury, was victorious in the Senior Schools division riding her own Jefke – who is known in the stable as ‘Rambo’.
“He acts like his namesake!” said Jemima, who turned 14 last week. “We event and compete in Pony Trials, and are aiming for the European Championships. He definitely finds the showjumping phase the easiest.”
It was Jemima’s first time competing at the All England Jumping Course at Hickstead in West Sussex: “I didn’t have a plan in the jump-off as I have never done one on him before. But he’s really quick and seems to turn for the next jump before I’ve even asked him to.”
Jemima and Jefke provided two perfect rounds to keep all the poles up in a competitive class. They posted a time of 39.14 for the jump-off to beat her closest rival by a tenth of a second.
Deputy Headmaster of Hurstpierpoint College Tim Leeper (see photo) was on hand to present the prizes.