WHY ERIDGE IS A UNIQUE TEST

THE unique nature of this helterskelter parkland event — where almost every fence is sited on undulating ground — means that it provides an invaluable, educational outing.

“Every time we opt to run at a flat event rather than one like this, we’re reducing the need to ride with instinct and feel,” observed Francis Whittington, fourth in the intermediate with Hope Over Experience.

Pippa Funnell, who picked up several placings, said: “Eridge is one of the best training grounds to learn how to ride terrain; it makes you really work on your position. On my first horse, I was pitched forward over the triple brush arrowhead [fence 16] down the steep hill. It was a wake-up call and I made sure I really sat up after that.”

Many riders failed to rebalance their horses correctly for this obstacle and paid the penalty with a run-out, while there were also some heartstopping moments at the final fence, which was sited, as usual, on the brow of the steep uphill pull to the finish.

“Instead of taking a check and letting their horse catch its breath, people were pushing forward to the fence, which was leading to some very scary jumps,” said Francis.