It’s two from two for Sophie Scott who this evening won the Wade Equine Coaches Lady Rider of the Year crown, backing up her victory yesterday in the prestigious Norwood Gold Cup.

The weather certainly has not played ball today. Jumping in the Premier Arena was pushed out an hour to try and allow the grass to dry out a little, but continued rain through the afternoon’s classes made for a slippery track.

Six of the original 23 starters came back – five clears and the fastest four faulter.

Sophie and Normandy were second to go, coming home clear in 54.66. “I didn’t think it would get me the win,” said Sophie.

Next to go was teen Tara Gower aboard Riverhills Legend who gave it a good crack but a rail at the second to last in her 50.09 second round put paid to her adding her name to the Merrylegs Cup.

Laura Inkster and Rodrigo looked on to challenge Sophie but a rail mid track saw them finish on four faults in 50.05 seconds. Last to go was plucky teen Samantha Gillies on Lumarzo who produced a heart-stopping round with super tight turns in tricky conditions but they paid with their 48.52-second effort with four at the last.

“It was another amazing competition,” said Sophie, who also collected a sterling silver snaffle and stirrup bracelet from RB Jewellers for the win. “I am so stoked. It was a bit wet and muddy out there but it seemed to work out for the best of us. It is always fun when it’s a competitive class with a great bunch of riders.”

She’s hopeful for a “couple more” big titles with her very in-form team over the rest of the week.

Results:
Sophie Scott (Palmerston North) Normandy GHP 1; Samantha Gillies (Oamaru) Lumarzo 2; Laura Inkster (Clevedon) Rodrigo MVNZ 3. For full results www.evoevents.co.nz