Equestrian

Military equestrian's big stage: Showjumpers prepare to battle for top spot

Watch: What's the state of play heading into the 2024 Forces showjumping final?

The top eight service showjumpers will battle it out on Friday to be the overall champion in front of hundreds of spectators at the London International Horse Show at the Excel Arena.

After three qualifying rounds across the year to gain the most number of points, the top forces showjumper will be crowned in the final.

Gunner Charlotte Pudge on Dreamer was the top qualifier with 30 points after winning at the RAF and Royal tournament events and will compete in her first final.

Also competing in their first final is Warrant Officer Keely Martin based at RAF Cranwell, on Bella, who was the second highest qualifier, and the RAF's Flight Lieutenant Michelle Randall on Issy.

Major Ralph Pottie from the Royal Army Medical Services rides Mario in his first final, and Hollie Clark who rides Polly is the fifth first-time rider in the final representing the Police.

Staff Sergeant Louise Hoyle from Army Welfare Services is at her third final hoping to improve on third place in 2022 while Private Joanna Sullivan qualifies as a reserve after Major Nicola Barge had to withdraw.

The Navy's sole representative is reservist Leading Hand Robyn McFadden on Pyper who won her final place at the UKAF championships and is back for a second year.

You can watch live action from the 2024 Forces showjumping final on Friday from 17:20 UK time on the BFBS Forces News YouTube channel.

Watch: How to see military equitation's premier event live