Sandringham Delivers Another Memorable Weekend for British Scurry & Trials Driving

The Sandringham Festival of Carriage Driving once again proved to be a real highlight of the British Scurry & Trials Driving calendar, with competitors travelling from across the country to compete for the newly sponsored Zilco Cup.

Although a few withdrawals meant a slightly smaller entry, 14 combinations still took to the arena over the weekend, delivering fast, competitive and entertaining driving. The standard was high throughout, but just as noticeable was the sportsmanship on display, with competitors from different carriage driving disciplines supporting each other both in and out of the arena – exactly what the Festival of Driving is all about.

The course, designed and built by Ivor and Jack Williams, made great use of the Sandringham arena. It was fast and flowing but still technically demanding, with driving trials cones adding an extra challenge. It tested every competitor, but everyone rose to it and produced some excellent rounds across the weekend.

The weekend was also marked by very warm conditions, but the Sandringham Driving Horse Trials team ensured both competitors and horses were well looked after. Excellent provisions were put in place throughout the event, helping everyone cope with the heat and allowing the competition to run smoothly despite the challenging weather.

Saturday saw some familiar rivalries play out once again. In the Single Pony class, Philippa Scott and Herbie came out on top after another close contest with Lindsey Doran and her Hackney pony, The Hotstepper. Lindsey went on to win the Very Small Pony class with Dot Not Dash, while Clare Barcroft made a welcome return to BSTD competition by taking victory in the Pony Pair class with Laurel and Hardy. The results once again showed the wide variety of breeds and turnouts competing in BSTD, proving there really is something for everyone in the sport.

Away from the arena, Saturday evening gave everyone a chance to relax, with competitors and supporters gathering to watch the World Cup football on the big screen, thanks to the Sandringham Driving Horse Trials team.

Sunday morning’s Championship run brought an exciting finish to the weekend. Amy Matthews and Spunky Spud set an early target with a clear round in 72.36 seconds, while Chloe Williams and Clare Barcroft both put in strong drives to stay in contention.

It all came down to the final two competitors. Philippa Scott, with groom Lucy Scott, who had been busy across different phases all weekend, produced a brilliant round with Herbie to take the lead in 67.66 seconds.

Last to go was Lindsey Doran with The Hotstepper. Knowing what she needed to do, Lindsey went for it and set the fastest time of the weekend at 66.26 seconds. However, a five-second penalty for clipping the second obstacle proved costly, handing Philippa Scott the Championship title and the Zilco Cup.

The Novice Championship went to Sandy Budd with Turk after another strong performance. Runner-up Sue Holliday with Dave’s Dynamites also impressed, with both drivers showing confident and skilful driving around a challenging course – a great sign for the future of the sport.

The highest placed veteran award went to Chloe Williams’ Lilly from Tutti and Frutti, an incredible 29 years old.

British Scurry & Trials Driving would like to thank title sponsor Zilco for its continued support, and ADW Media for sponsoring the Novice Championship trophy. Competitors were also rewarded with generous prize money and the lovely BSTD rosettes, alongside Zilco goody bags, as a thank you for taking part.

Thanks also go to the Sandringham Festival of Carriage Driving for once again providing such a fantastic venue and for welcoming BSTD back. The organisers, officials, volunteers and spectators all played their part in making it another enjoyable and successful weekend.

With Sandringham wrapped up, attention now turns to the next round at the Cotswold Show, where the battle for Grand League points continues. If Sandringham is anything to go by, there’s plenty more exciting competition still to come this season.

For more images of the Sandringham Festival of Driving from Heritage Snapper, please go to their Facebook page