2008 Talent Spotting Finals

Young rider Sophie Moultrie made British Dressage history when she won the National Junior Talent Spotting Final at Addington Manor.

Normally the two day assessments includes a final ride-off phase for the three highest scoring competitors but Sophie's unprecedented high mark of 157.20 out of 170 put her so far ahead that the judges declared her the outright winner.

Sophie was overwhelmed, "It was a shock - I was in the lead after the first day and then the marks came up pretty quickly and I was so far in the lead it began to feel a bit scary, but I didn't know I'd won until I heard they had cancelled the ride-off" she said.

Sophie was riding nine year old part-bred thoroughbred mare, Chipping Steps (Tia) "I've trained really hard since I qualified for the final but Tia's the star. She coped really well with the pressure"

Sophie's ability to work in sympathy and harmony with the horses was particularly commended by judges Paul Fielder, one of the UK's leading dressage trainers and Christoph Hess, one of Germany's top trainers. Christoph added " I listened to what the riders had to say, Sophie talked about real feeling. She is extraordinary and would be top-class in all countries because of her influence of the horse and position in the saddle".

Having begun her British Dressage competitive career just a few months ago, Sophie's win is still only just sinking in as before this Sophie and Tia had only done three BD affiliated novice tests.

Sophie is supported and trained by Pippa Hayward who said "Sophie deserves this win and I am very proud of her. She has stacks of ability and is willing to take tough input and then work hard herself between sessions. Despite natural ability she is never arrogant about her riding and is always open to learn - a vital part of success in any sport."

As well as a training grant of more than £500, the Talent Spotting scheme is recognised as one of the most influential stages for future dressage stars.