The Army and RA ODE was held at Larkhill Horse Trials on Sat 23rd of July. An ODE is the “triathlon” of horse sport and consists of the olympic disciplines of dressage and showjumping. The third phase is cross-country which tests stamina and bravery as you gallop at speed to achieve an optimum time over a technical course of solid fences.
Although this was a military authorised fixture, civilians were also able to enter and enjoy competing through the day as well. This event offered an excellent friendly opportunity for Army riders to hone their skills in a friendly environment along with colleagues from the RAF and RN before we meet again at the Royal Navy Championships in August.
The following placings for our Army riders
Army Team riders:
Maj Kirstie Deakin-Main (RMAS) – 2nd 80 cm
Capt Amy Cooper (KTRHA) – double clear 100 cm
Army Corps level riders:
LBdr Megan Benney (26 RA) – 4th 100 cm
LCpl Megan Fox (RADC) – 9th 70 cm
LCpl Amelia Green (R Sigs) – educational run 90 cm
Pte Brian Leung (RLC) – 6th 90 cm
Many thanks to the very generous title sponsor, Enjoy Chocolates, for enabling the event to run as well as providing prizes. This event would also not run without the army of volunteers and the organising committee led by the RA Equestrian team and Capt Gareth Hall (32 RA).