Showjumping and dressage competition launched by Cheshire business woman

Feb 3 2010 by Naomi Dunning, Chester Chronicle

A BUSINESS woman has rescued a showjumping and dressage competition and hopes to encourage riders of all abilities to take part.

The Combined Training Series had been run by British Dressage (BD) for many years but last year they dropped out and equestrian enthusiasts thought the popular competition had come to an end.

But Ruth Mealey, who runs Liberte' Horsebox Hire in Sugar Lane, Manley, decided to take up the challenge of organising and running this year’s event.

Ruth said: “This was a very popular series and it was terrible when it was dropped. I know so many people who loved attending and taking part and that is why I decided to take it on.”

Ruth is working with those at South View Equestrian Centre, in Wettenhall near Nantwich, to put on the event which will include four qualifying rounds with the first six placed combinations in each level going forward to the championships in September.

Ruth said: “We have classes to suit all levels of ability; from preliminary dressage tests with 2’3” jumping to novice dressage tests with 3’6” jumping. All are welcome and we have some great cash prizes and a warm atmosphere.”

She added: “We are lucky enough to have attracted generous sponsors who have donated prizes for the whole series and a sizeable prize fund.”

Ruth is no stranger to successfully setting up new ventures as she started her own horse box hire businesses 2003. It was originally an idea in her Equine Business Management degree which despite her teachers only giving her a ‘C’ grade she pursued and turned it into a successful reality. She soon came second in the Daily Mail young entrepreneur competition and her business flourished- she now hopes the competition will do the same.

The event hopes to not only support riders of all abilities but they will also be fundraising for the Claire Lomas Campaign. Claire was a talented event rider who fractured her neck back and ribs in a freak accident in 2007.

Ruth said: “She was left paralysed but she is an inspiration who is determined to walk again and also help Spinal Research.”

Ruth said: “We really want to make this a successful and professional series that continues to grow in popularity.”

The first qualifier will be on February 10 and admission for the March 17 event is still open. For details go to www.southviewarena.com or www.combinedtrainingseries.com.