The British squad from the European Championships and chef d’equipe Di Lampard picked up the main award of the night at the annual British Showjumping awards on Tuesday (6 October).
The squad — made up of Joe Clee, Michael Whitaker, Jessica Mendoza, Ben Maher and reserve Guy Williams — competed at Aachen in the summer, securing Britain’s Olympic qualification for Rio 2016.
There was a lot of pressure going into the event, as Britain’s final chance to secure a space at next year’s Games. However, not only did they make it, they were narrowly off a medal.
Di admitted that being so close to a medal was disappointing, but they had done what they set out to achieve.
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Pathfinder and H&H cover star Joe Clee also won another award — the Nations Cup team member of the year.
The British rider, who is based in Belgium, has enjoyed a stellar year proving a key player for Team GBR.
Joe’s teammate Jessica Mendoza was another with a double trip to the podium on the night, taking the leading under 21 rider (horses).
Pony rider of the year went to Jodie Hall Mcateer from Borehamwood, Hertfordshire.
The top level team grooms award was won by Scott Brash’s groom Hanna Colman. Hannah has been responsible for looking after Rolex Grand Slam winner and history-maker Hello Sanctos this year.
Hello Sanctos was recognised later in the night when the gelding and Scott Brash were named FEI international combination of the year.
Scott Brash was unable to be present, as he had been competing at the LA Masters, but was thankful for his award in a prerecorded video.
Coach of the year went to Sarah Tubbs from Barnard Castle, County Durham and breeder of the year was Keeley Durham, who bred John Whitaker’s Argento.
Nigel Coupe from Preston won the International Stairway League.
