Jousting veterans have had final tilt

Paddy, whose "stage" name is Chieftain, and Isaac (Ferront) are both kicking up their heels at new homes.

Both horses were highly trained to compete in all the Royal Armouries' equestrian events, including the major tournaments when they carried a weight of 80lb of armour plus the rider.

"It takes a certain kind of temperament in a horse to accept the sounds of clanking armour and gunfire and both these horses provided our knights with a safe and reliable ride," said stable manager Rebecca Sparnon.

One of the Royal Armouries' riders, Steve Charlton, rode both horses to victory in the individual championship, winning the coveted 'Sword of Honour' at the Armouries, riding Paddy in 2004 and Isaac in 2008. There are currently six horses in training for the team tournament for the 'Sword of Honour,' which will be held at Easter.

Paddy, a 15.1h bay gelding, joined the Royal Armouries team in 2001 and became a stalwart of the equestrian team. He has joined other retired jousting horses at Swithens Farm livery yard at Rothwell. They hold regular shows and dressage competitions, where Paddy will be able to compete in the veteran classes.

Isaac, a 15.1h grey gelding, went to the Royal Armouries in 2005 and took part in all the riding events from Wild West shows to tournament jousting. He is now enjoying life at his new home near York.

A special Mother's Day joust is being held at the Royal Armouries today and tomorrow, beginning at 2pm. The four-day international jousting tournament for the 'Sword of Honour' is being held over the Easter weekend. There are also daily horse shows at the Armouries which start at 1.30pm (2.0pm during school holidays.)

THE recent bad weather has hampered many competitors in their preparations for the coming season.

British Eventing are offering some expert help with a series of indoor 'Jump Training' days, which are open to everybody. Chris Shaw, of British Eventing, says: "Jump Training is for anyone and it represents a sound option for those preparing for the coming season, with the added bonus of a result, prizes and the chance to qualify for the series final."

There are sections for juniors (12-18) and seniors (over 18). The next 'Jump Training' day is on March 20 at Askham Bryan College, York. Call Fiona Saxby on 07866514831 for details or go to www.britisheventing.com or email jump.training@ britisheventing.com.

College gets thumbs-up from top designer

MARK McGOWAN will be designing the show-jumping course for this summer's FEI European Pony Championships at Bishop Burton College.

An experienced course designer at national and international level, Mark runs the Hallmark Stud at Kilmarnock with his wife Holly.

He recently visited the college to start planning the courses for the four-day championship. The new show-jumping arena was completed just before Christmas. "I'm very encouraged by the college and its facilities. The new arena is a good size and it's all very competitor-friendly," said Mark.

THE Bedale Hunt is holding a pleasure ride and optional guided hedge hop on March 28 at Yafforth Grange near Northallerton.

The guided hedge hop will start between 10.0am and 10.30am and riders will go off in groups of six to 10. "All jumping abilities will be catered for but you will have the chance to test yourself over some of the cream of the Bedale country," said hunt chairman, Christopher Bourne-Arton.

From 10.30am till noon, there will be a marked route for a pleasure ride where no jumping will be necessary but there will be some obstacles for people who want to have a go. "The ride is through some stunning private land, taking in the banks of the river Swale and wonderful old parkland, where there will be a pit stop to refresh the body and nerves," said Christopher. All are welcome and the cost is 15 for adults and 10 for under-15s.

For more information, call 01609 623210 or 01765 658975.