Wilton Wins Intermediaire I Title at 2014 British Dressage Championships

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2014 British Dressage Championships

Day two of the 2014 British Dressage Championships provided one new FEI level champion for the crowds despite grey skies and rain in the air for much of the competition. Berkshire rider Spencer Wilton retained his Intermediate title but with a new rising star. This time he partnered Jayne Lancashire’s expressive Tchaikovsky-sired Alfons.

It was a mammoth class of 31 and Wilton took advantage of a late draw to steal the class from long-time leader, Charlie Hutton with Charlotte Dunkerton’s Douglas IV (72.82%). Spencer and Alfons made their championship debut yesterday and were hoping for a PSG-Inter I double as they enjoyed at Hickstead Premier League in June.

However, the elegant bay gelding had other ideas, using his party trick flying changes to celebrate his championship debut…but when they weren’t quite required! Today Spencer had his full attention and he was much more settled for a truly pleasing picture. Last to go Michael Eilberg with the Deverill’s British-bred Half Moon Dynasty came close to an upset but were just short with a great 71.84% for third.

Spencer beamed; “Very pleased with him today after yesterday’s flying changes episode. I got them today, apart from he threw in an extra few! But from the mistakes, he was the best he’s ever been; he feels more consistent and the movements are safe. I’ve had six weeks off with a bulging disc in my back so have only had about three weeks’ preparation to get here so really happy with the performances. He’s really come on in that time though, his strength and condition has really developed. I’m looking forward to the music, even though we’ve had hardly and time to practice!”

Today's top 14 go forward to Sunday’s Inter I Freestyle and the highest combined score from the two classes will walk away with the Supreme Champion accolade.

Text by British Dressage