The Thrilling Showcase of Dressage Talent at the KBIS Semi-Final
The 2025 KBIS Semi-Final at the NAF Five Star Festival of Dressage, held at the prestigious Hartpury University & College, was nothing short of a grand spectacle. Bringing together an elite assemblage of horses across various age categories, this event carved the path to the esteemed LeMieux National Championships. British dressage saw the emergence of budding talents, proving that the equestrian sport is thriving at all levels.
Sarah Rogers and Thomas Ticino: A Dynamite Duo
In a moment that left the audience enthralled, Sarah Rogers from Gloucestershire, along with Thomas Ticino, a horse owned by the renowned Ursula Bechtolsheimer and Laura Tomlinson, stood head and shoulders above the competition. They achieved a monumental score of 83.400, thanks to Thomas Ticino's disciplined walk and breathtaking expressiveness across all movements. This five-year-old horse, with his penchant for collection, doesn’t just promise high marks but also shows great potential for higher-level competitions down the line.
Top Placements in the Younger Divisions
While Rogers and Thomas Ticino claimed the limelight, other competitors left a mark as well. Sadie Smith, aboard River Rise Pizzazz, gallantly secured the runner-up spot. Not too far behind, Jezz Palmer impressed with MS Broadway M, earning a commendable third-place finish. In the spirited six-year-old class, Robert Barker dazzled judges with his performance with Kilans Bartholomew, owned by Christine Kirk, raking in scores touching 83.000.
Spotlight on the Seven-Year-Old Champs
The seven-year-old category was not one to be overlooked. Here, it was Della Ballerina who rose to prominence, securing a score of 77.367%. This feat speaks volumes about the layers of talent embedded within British dressage. With such stellar performances, judges anticipate a promising future for these steeds as they vie for glory at the upcoming LeMieux National Championships.
The Greater Significance of the KBIS Semi-Final
The semi-final is more than just a challenging competition; it’s a crucial milestone in a rider's career journey. Serving as a key qualifier for the national stage in September, this event underscores the rigorous dedication and unparalleled skill in British dressage circuits. Featuring home-bred horses and high-caliber riders, the KBIS Semi-Final not only celebrates instantaneous achievements but also highlights the long-term promise and potential of British equestrian sports.
An Optimistic Outlook on Equestrian Futures
With prominent names like Ursula Bechtolsheimer investing in top-tier breeding programs and training, British dressage is gearing up for an exciting chapter. These semi-finals serve as an indicator of future stars who may soon represent the country on international platforms. Bringing together passion, skill, and an undeniable charm, the 2025 KBIS Semi-Final has surely set the tone for the forthcoming competitions.
For those keen to witness more of this remarkable talent, tune into Horse and Country TV, stay updated through Premier Performance, and explore opportunities with Royal Equestrian.
Sources: [British Dressage News](https://www.britishdressage.co.uk/news)
