An injury to mount Athena XV meant showjumper Ricki Hill was unable to compete in the British Young Riders Classic at Sheffield.

Hill was due to participate at the event - part of the British Open Showjumping Championships - but Athena had a sore back and could not be ridden.

So the Benfleet competitor packed his bags and headed over to northern France to take part in a young riders meeting at Hardelot.

Hill rode in six classes and was in the top five in each, and came second in the GP at the end of the day.

"He had a fantastic show and was given the leading rider award," said dad Rick Hill.

"Ricki is going to Royal Windsor in two week's time and is then concentrating on the European Championships in July.

"He has three horses: Athena XV, Prince of Wales and Compliment II, and it is important to build them up so they are in peak condition in July."

Hill is no stranger to taking on the cream of the continent's riders, having picked up gold with the England team in 2000 and 2002.

Published Wednesday, April 30, 2003

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