The Gateway Classes continue to go from strength to strength and are becoming a well-established part of British Carriagedriving competitions. They provide an excellent stepping stone for drivers looking to progress from Indoor Driving, Scurry Trials, or BDS events into the exciting world of outdoor driving trials.

Nineteen entries were received, although a few competitors understandably withdrew due to the hot weather. This still left a varied and enthusiastic field across the Newcomers and Allcomers single and pair classes.

The Newcomers class featured the Test of Shapes, designed to assess the fundamental principles of good schooling. Drivers were asked to demonstrate straightness, correct bend through the corners and a relaxed, forward way of going that is free from tension, resistance or incorrect bend. The Allcomers class tackled the previous indoor season’s Precision and Pace test, again rewarding the correct basics of way of going.

Making the move into dressage-style judged tests can feel like a big step, especially when every movement is marked and accompanied by comments. The judge marked fairly throughout, providing constructive feedback that helped competitors understand both what was being rewarded and where improvements could be made.

As is often the case, there were a few navigational errors in both classes, with some drivers briefly forgetting their route. However, everyone quickly recovered and got back on track. While most competitors naturally look forward to the cones and obstacles, taking the time to develop confidence and understanding in the dressage phase really does pay dividends, often leading to stronger performances in the later phases.

The Newcomers section proved to be closely contested, with six drivers competing. Vicky Nurcombe led the way with an excellent score of 46.40, closely followed by Kodie Rolfe and Harry Varle.

In the Allcomers section, Anna Sadler secured first place after dressage with a score of 53.53, ahead of Elizabeth Freeman, while Matt Illston-Barsby and his pair were close behind.

The cones phase brought plenty of changes to the leaderboard. Harry Varle and his speedy pony produced a fast double clear to move into contention, while Briony Holden also completed an excellent double clear, but was a little slower. In the Allcomers, Scurry Trials specialist Phillip Trantham and his pair showed their speed to edge ahead of Matt Illston-Barsby. In fact, the top four drivers all completed impressive double-clear rounds, making for a highly competitive class.

The cones course was both enjoyable and educational, with many drivers producing confident and accurate rounds that reflected the progress they had made.

After the lunch break, competitors were split into groups to allow time for groom and carriage changes. The format followed that of the indoor competitions, with each group driving two obstacles before repeating them. Gateway competitors tackled Obstacles 6 and 7 from the main national event, negotiating gates A to E, which gave them a genuine taste for the challenges they can look forward to on the Club and National circuits.

The Newcomers obstacle phase saw a thrilling contest between Harry Varle and Lisa Perrot, with the lead changing throughout. Harry eventually came out on top by just four penalties after a closely fought battle.

The Allcomers class was equally competitive, with Matt Illston-Barsby producing the winning performance on 55.39, narrowly ahead of Phillip Trantham driving his single heavy horse on 56.56.

After three exciting phases, Harry Varle claimed the Newcomers title, while Matt Illston-Barsby took victory in the Allcomers section.

A huge thank you to all the stewards, judges and volunteers who, after working tirelessly throughout the festival, stepped up once again on the final day to deliver the Gateway competition. Their commitment and enthusiasm continue to help this class flourish.

Gateway is clearly developing a real identity of its own. As it continues to evolve there will no doubt be opportunities for small refinements, and hopefully it will become even more integrated into the main festival timetable. Like all good things, it is growing steadily and becoming stronger with each season.

The final prize giving in the main marquee was a fitting end to the competition, with plenty of happy smiles, well-deserved celebrations and a wonderful sense of camaraderie. It was fantastic to see so many drivers encouraging one another, proving once again that Gateway is not only about competition, but also about supporting new drivers, building confidence and welcoming more people into the sport.