Ronie Thomas, aged 13 and representing John Kyrle High School as an individual, qualified to go to the British Showjumping Just for Schools National Championships at Stoneleigh Park, Kenilworth, Warwickshire on Wednesday, August 8th.

This was the second time Ronie had qualified to go to the Championships, after winning last year on her pony, Bobby. Last year she also came third on pony, Didi, which she had only been riding for a few weeks at the time.

To qualify again this year, coming top ten in the league table, allowing Ronie to be able to go back and defend her title, was a great achievement.

Ronie was 17th to go, and rode a lovely clear round on Didi, getting her through to the jump off.

Ronie was fifth from last to ride in the jump off, and she flew around the course, doing some great turns to stop the clock on 28.45 seconds, winning the class by 1.33 seconds.

Ronie and Didi were crowned the 70cm-75cm British Showjumping National Just for Schools Champions.

Ronie told the Ross Gazette:?“It was amazing to go back to the Championship and to represent JKHS?for a second time. Winning for the second year in a row (this time on Didi) is fantastic.”

Ronie would like to thank Jilly Baker, owner of Didi, for allowing her to ride this fabulous pony and to John Kyrle High School for all their support and encouragement.See the full story in this week’s edition of the Ross Gazette, or subscribe to our online edition here