July 14 2026
Great Britain will field its first Young Rider endurance team at an FEI Championship since 2018, showcasing the next generation of equestrian talent and a deep commitment to horse welfare.
Endurance GB is proud to announce the three talented young riders selected to represent Great Britain at the prestigious FEI Endurance European Championship for Young Riders & Juniors. Taking place in the beautiful but highly technical terrain of Jullianges, France, on 31st July 2026, this event marks a major milestone for British equestrian sport. The determined young squad comprises Scarlett Chapple riding Durboro Tansy, alongside Carmen Benitez Tennant riding BAN - KEI Almanzor and professional rider Suzannah Todd riding Kefla.
The achievement marks a historic return to the world stage, with Great Britain fielding a full squad in this category for the first time in eight years. The championship course in Jullianges will test the ultimate limits of horsemanship, tactical maturity, and stamina over a demanding and undulating route. With only three combinations representing Great Britain, there is no "drop score" available—meaning every single horse-and-rider partnership must complete the course successfully in order to secure a team placing. Success in endurance is measured not just by speed, but by strict veterinary standards; horses must pass rigorous health checks, including heart rate and soundness evaluations, before, during, and immediately after the race to secure a successful placing and completion.
While excitement is building for France, the squad is also sharing a bittersweet moment following the withdrawal of squad member Alex Powell and her horse, Hope. Following a consultation and a decision made by Hope's home veterinary team, the difficult but correct call was made to withdraw her from the championships. In the sport of endurance, horse health, happiness, and welfare always come first. Endurance GB fully supports this decision, praising Alex, her family, and her support crew for their years of dedicated training and outstanding sportsmanship.
Endurance riding is the ultimate test of equine fitness, preparation, and the deep bond between horse and rider. Endurance is a long-distance discipline where competitors navigate marked trails across varied countryside. Crucially, the sport is governed by strict welfare controls. At regular intervals, horses are examined by a panel of veterinarians. If a horse’s heart rate (pulse) does not recover to a safe level within a set time, or if they show any signs of fatigue or unevenness, they are immediately and safely withdrawn from the track. The winning partnership is the one that crosses the finish line first while maintaining the peak physical condition of the horse.
Speaking ahead of the competition, Spain-based British rider Suzannah (Suzie) Todd, who rides the talented nine-year-old Tunisian-bred mare Kefla, highlighted the challenges ahead:
"Jullianges is a highly technical course, and it will not be a race of pure speed, but also agility over varying terrain and undulating tracks. In a field of young riders, it will be incredibly important to ride a mature race and not lose sight of the distance that is to be completed."
Katie Dickinson, Endurance GB Young Rider Chef d’Equipe, emphasized the significance of this campaign:
"This squad represents an important moment for endurance in the UK, marking the first time since 2018 that a British Young Rider team will compete at an FEI Championship. The riders are talented, dedicated young people who have worked incredibly hard to reach this level. They are not only excellent riders, but great ambassadors for the sport and for Great Britain. Their teamwork, horsemanship, and commitment make them a very exciting group to support as they represent the future of British endurance."
As a non-Olympic discipline, endurance riding does not receive central sports funding in the UK. The significant costs of international transport, training, veterinary preparation, and entry fees are funded almost entirely by the riders, their families, and the community. To help these young athletes compete on equal footing with their European peers, Endurance GB has launched a community fundraising campaign. Supporters can help power the team's journey to France by donating directly to the Young Rider Team Fundraising Campaign on Zeffy.
Endurance GB extends its heartfelt thanks to the incredible team of support crews, farriers, veterinarians, and families, as well as the generous sponsors making this campaign possible: Uvex, SGC, Zilco, Rhinegold, Equiverse Pro, and Lion Equestrian.
This international campaign reflects Endurance GB's broader mission to promote horse welfare, adventure, and personal achievement. From grassroots riders exploring local bridleways to elite athletes representing their nation on the world stage, the endurance community is united by a shared love for the horse and the thrill of the open trail.
Equestrianists.com - Full Article
