Bicton Arena hosted five days of thrilling competition last week, as over 320 combinations made the trip to Devon to take part in the October International Horse Trials.
From 22 – 26 October 2025, the venue’s beautiful Grade I listed parkland provided the backdrop for a showcase of emerging talent, delivering high-calibre competition across CCI3*-S, CCI2*-L and CCI2*-S classes alongside the BE80, BE90 and BE100 long-format sections. Offering riders a final opportunity to test themselves before the close of the season, the event was characterised by cheerful camaraderie and top class performances.
A true test of horse and rider, this long format event proved highly popular amongst those keen to test their mettle against Bicton’s demanding terrain and clever courses.
Long format events include a four phase cross-country day comprising of two roads and tracks phases, a steeplechase, a ten-minute box and the final cross country challenge itself. Often seen as more in keeping with the military origins of the sport, long format events remain popular at grassroots level, where they offer a unique and educational experience.
It was impressive to see how competitors rose to this test of horsemanship, conditioning and soundness, providing great sport for spectators and showcasing some exciting combinations for the future.
Redpost Equestrian: Supporting Every Stride
As headline sponsors of the grassroots three-day event classes, Redpost Equestrian was proud to support Bicton’s spectacular Autumn eventing finale, which provided an exciting few days of competition and a valuable springboard for new eventing talent.
Redpost Managing Director Ben Tuff commented: “We are delighted to be a part of the October International Horse Trials at Bicton again this year. The BE80, BE90 and BE100 classes are rider favourites and it’s a perfect way to show our commitment to and support for the equestrian community. Who knows — we could be watching eventing champions of the future in the making!”
Giving Rising Stars a Chance to Shine
The BE100 Open, BE100, BE90, and BE80 classes showcased the dedication, horsemanship, and enjoyment that is so integral to the future of the sport.
BE100 Open: BE Accredited Coach Saskia Rioux and her 20-year-old Singing Usk, known as Ash, were the stars of the BE100 Open. Overcoming a minor leg fracture earlier in the year, Ash made a tremendous comeback at Bicton, and the pair finished on an impressive score of 29.9.
“Getting here has been a real team effort, and I’ve focused on listening to what he needs […] my priority is always making sure he’s enjoying himself.”
BE100: Axminster-based Jane Rogers and her 18-year-old Corrieview Merlin Magic defended their title in the Redpost Equestrian BE100, finishing on a dressage score of 28.9. Jane’s delight was clear: “I can’t believe it – I’ve done it again! I’m chuffed to bits with Magic, he was a superstar!”
The BE100 team event also saw the Mendip Meter Maids—Alison Stewart, Jonathan Leece, Rosie Moreton, and Kathryn Virjee—take top honours with a total score of 107.6.
BE90: In the Redpost BE90 Section F, Helen du Heaume and Alvescot Extraordinaire maintained their lead from the start to finish with a final score of 27.9. Helen shared, “It has been an amazing day and one I will cherish forever.”
BE90 Section G: West Cornwall’s Phoebe Lagor and her 6-year-old My Quality Girl triumphed in with a double clear on 28.6. Phoebe enthused, “I’m over the moon, she means so much to me and has been epic all week.”
BE80: Philippa Skelton kept her nerves in check to deliver a flawless showjumping round on Brian Boru III, securing the Redpost Equestrian BE80 win. She said, “I am hugely relieved. I’m not great under pressure, but he’s an absolute pro, and it was so much fun!”
The BE80 & BE90 team event showcased strong collaboration, with 50 Shades of Hay—Jane Rogers, Janine Paterson, Nicky Ralph, and Imogen Peck—finishing on a final score of 99.
Success at CCI3-S and CCI2-L
The upper-level classes also proved rewarding for spectators. The Symonds & Sampson CCI3*-S was a tightly contested class, with just 0.3 points separating the top three. It was Barnie Brotherton (GBR) who ultimately took the win, guiding Naomi Brotherton’s DHI King Nelson to victory and finishing on a final score of 35.5. “He jumped well in both phases and was super quick cross country – the only one inside the time. I am very happy with how he has finished the season.”
Max Warburton (GBR) also impressed in the Events Through A Lens CCI2*-L, piloting Brookfield Breaking News to victory. “ I am delighted with Brookfield Breaking News – he was the ultimate professional all week […] Bicton is always a great venue with rolling terrain, so it’s been a great experience for this young horse.”
Florence Drewitt (GBR) and EG Michealangelo finished on an impressive score to take the win in the Succeed Equine CCI2*-S. It was only the pair’s second two-star outing, but already this exciting partnership are showing their potential.
“He did a beautiful test and double clear, it was our first time going for the time and he flew round. It’s my first proper horse coming off ponies so it’s really exciting for the future,” said Florence.
Convenience Meets Competition: Redpost at Bicton
With a well-stocked trade stand on site from Thursday to Saturday, Redpost Equestrian were on hand to offer advice and last minute essentials to those competing (as well as welcome retail therapy for spectators). To make things as seamless as possible for competitors, the team also offered a popular ‘click and collect’ service, whereby items could be ordered and brought to Bicton the very next day.
As family-run business dedicated to supporting the equestrian community, Redpost Equestrian was privileged to play a part in supporting this fantastic event. The Bicton Arena team, officials and an army of volunteers worked tirelessly to make it all happen, and feedback from riders and spectators confirmed that there is huge appetite for an event of this calibre in the South West. Whether supporting young riders making their first foray into eventing or seasoned campaigners in the field, nurturing talent and encouraging good horsemanship at all levels is essential for the future of the sport.
Bicton Arena Co-Director Helen West reflected on the event: “This is such a fantastic competition that really brings horsemanship to the forefront. […] We’ve finished the weekend with lots of happy riders and horses, which is always our goal.”
With thanks to Bicton Arena for sharing details and highlights from the event. Credit to ESP photography.
