Eventing Debutant Rides Dream to Badminton Horse Trials
For Amy Purkis, qualifying for the LeMieux Grassroots Championships at Badminton Horse Trials marks the culmination of years of dedication adn a deep connection with her mare, Balinamonapark Tiger Lilly (Lilly). The pair earned their spot at Badminton in 2024 after a successful season,highlighted by a third-place finish in the BE90 at the Blindley Heath Regional Championship.
Late Start, Lasting Bond
Purkis’s journey into equestrian sport began later in life.After a decade away from riding, she found Lilly seven years ago. Despite looking at numerous horses,Purkis knew Lilly was special from the start. Lilly, known for her willing nature, came from eventer Lucy Jackson’s yard, where she received careful early training.
“I was utterly rubbish when I bought Lilly,” Purkis admits. “I’d never evented before, and starting later in life was terrifying. But Lilly never gave up on me,giving me her trust.”
Years of Training Culminate in Success
Purkis and Lilly dedicated years to training before entering the eventing world. Their commitment paid off, leading to significant achievements over the past two years. Purkis emphasizes prioritizing Lilly’s safety and well-being,allowing her to excel in the sport she loves. “Every step on a cross-country course needs to be ridden, but the feeling of pure guts and courage Lilly gives me is nothing short of amazing. Riding her is my happy place.”
Preparing for a First-Time Challenge at Badminton
Purkis is currently engaged in intense training for Badminton, focusing on fitness, cross-country, and showjumping after a winter season concentrating on dressage, even qualifying for the British Dressage Winter Petplan Championships.
Purkis recognizes the unique challenges Badminton presents, especially for Lilly, who is unaccustomed to being away from home and is sensitive to crowds. Despite these hurdles, Purkis says, “Badminton is a real push for us, but I’m excited to get there and give it my best.”
Here are two PAA (People Also Ask) related questions, suitable for the title ”Eventing Debutant Rides Dream to Badminton horse Trials: Q&A”, and not already present in the provided Q&A list:
Eventing Debutant Rides Dream to Badminton Horse Trials: Q&A
This Q&A section clarifies key aspects of Amy Purkis’s journey to the Badminton Horse Trials, addressing common questions and adding engaging insights.
Q&A
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Q: What is the LeMieux Grassroots Championships at Badminton Horse Trials?
A: Its a prestigious event within the larger Badminton Horse Trials, specifically designed for amateur riders and their horses. It provides a fantastic chance for riders to experience the thrill of competing at a world-renowned venue.
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Q: What is “eventing”?
A: Eventing (also known as “horse trials”) is an equestrian sport combining three disciplines: dressage (flatwork), cross-country (jumping over solid obstacles across varied terrain), and show jumping (jumping over fences in an arena). the rider with the lowest score across all three phases wins.
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Q: How did Amy and Lilly qualify for Badminton?
A: They qualified by achieving a accomplished season,including a third-place finish in the BE90 (British Eventing level 90cm) at the Blindley Heath Regional Championship. This demonstrates their consistency and skill.
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Q: What is special about lilly?
A: Lilly is known for her willing nature and the trust she gives Amy. She came from eventer Lucy Jackson’s yard and had careful early training which helped her form a special bond with Amy.
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Q: what challenges does Amy anticipate at Badminton?
A: The main challenges are Lilly’s sensitivity to crowds and her unfamiliarity with being away from home. Amy is preparing for this with focused training and by prioritizing Lilly’s well-being.
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Q: What is the focus of Amy’s training now?
A: After a winter of focusing on dressage, Amy is now intensely focused on fitness, cross-country, and show jumping to prepare for Badminton.
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Q: What is “BE90”?
A: BE90 refers to the British Eventing level, where fences are up to 90cm in height.
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Q: What is the British Dressage winter Petplan Championships?
A: This is a prestigious dressage competition,offering amateur riders the opportunity to compete at a high level.
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Q: What advice would Amy give to someone starting eventing later in life?
A: Prioritize building a strong bond with your horse, focusing on their well-being and trust. Enjoy the journey!
Amy Purkis and Lilly’s story is a testament to the power of dedication,the special bond between horse and rider,and the thrilling possibilities of eventing. Follow their journey as they tackle the iconic Badminton Horse Trials!
