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For Wellington pupil Annabella P (L6, W), 2021 ended in fine style as she was crowned the leading young dressage rider in the world. Annabella, who has been riding since she was only three, made her international debut in 2017. Aged 12, she gave notice of her talent by scoring a hat-trick of victories at Hickstead CD! She enjoyed a stellar pony career, competing regularly on the international stage, before graduating to the Junior ranks in 2020. More success followed, and Annabella made history by winning two individual silver medals at the 2021 Junior European Dressage Championships in Spain, the first British rider to podium. She followed this up with winning the National Under 21 title and is regarded by shrewd judges in the equestrian world as a future Olympian.
Annabella, who turned 17 before Christmas, trains every day, spending no less than 45 minutes with each of the four horses she is involved with, each session vital in developing the unique connection between horse and rider that is so necessary in what many see as the ultimate team sport. As well as keeping up to date with her IB studies (how does she find the time?!), 2022 promises to be just as exciting, with the European Under 21 Championships firmly on the agenda. Congratulations on all your achievements thus far, Annabella, and all best wishes for the future.
