Pidgley produces a clean sweep

Annabella Pidgley dominates on all three of her horses, while upcoming stars and old hands shine at grand prix

- MARTHA TERRY

Addington CPEDI/CDI, Bucks

SCHOOLGIRL Annabella Pidgley proved just what a force she already is at elite level with six wins in six classes at Addington. At only her third senior international show, she topped the grand prix, special and freestyle as well as three young rider classes.

Annabella, who will sit her A levels in three months’ time, ticked off several “firsts” in spectacular style. Notably, she waltzed to a freestyle victory on her first attempt at grand prix to music, on her international debut with new ride Vamos Amigos. The Vitalis gelding is no stranger to big marks, having won individual world silver last summer with Denmark’s Cathrine LaudrupDufour, who lent her music to Annabella. The 18-year-old seemed unfazed as she executed an immaculate test to score 76.39%.

“It was great to have such a positive first competition together,” she said. “I’m just pleased I could give him a good experience even though I’m not that experienced yet.”

It was a good day for students, with Columbia psychology undergraduate Theodora Livanos scoring her best freestyle mark since 2019 in second on 74.18%, with Robinvale. The Greek rider returns from New York to Emile Faurie’s yard, where her horses are based, five days before competitions.

“I don’t ride at all when I’m in America; I’m trying to balance riding with studying,” said Theodora, 21. “Robin was really with me – the extended canter and pirouettes were highlights, though it was a shame I made mistakes in both two-times.”