Vikki makes fine debut at Royal Highland Show

Jul 1 2009 by Andrew Weston, Wishaw Press

ALLANTON showjumper Vikki McMillan overcame an early bout of nerves to perform superbly in her first competitive event at this year’s Royal Highland Show.

The 13-year-old was one of the youngest riders to take part in the prestigious competition on Sunday, completing two rounds os jumping on her pony Twice As Nice III.

Despite getting to the course at 9.30am on Sunday, she did not begin competition until 2pm, meaning an anxious few hours lay ahead.

Her mum Elizabeth said: “The night before, I never slept a wink but Vikki just crashed out.

“We got to the Royal Highland Show before 10am on Sunday and took in a lot of what was going on. Vikki spent her time spending money, which she seems to be good at!”

In preparation for the event, the Calderhead High School pupil walked the course to familiarise herself with the fences and the ground conditions.

When she took to the ring for the 138 Qualifier, the ringmaster introduced her to the crowd, announcing that it was the youngster’s debut at the RHS Championships.

She got round the 13-fence course. knocking just one pole down. Of the 15 competitors, only two completed the course without knocking a single pole down.

“She coped really well and her pony just touched the pole and no more,” her mother added.

“Vikki said nerves got the better of her in the first class but she appeared to just take it in her stride and we were all delighted.”

A strong field of 33 took part in The Liz Fox Royal Highland Show Championship and again Vikki put in a performance that delighted her mum and father Calum, sister Michelle and niece Brooke.

Despite the rain and slippery conditions, she made it round the course, knocking just one pole down. Only five riders had a clear run.

Elizabeth said: “Even the judges commented on how well she did, especially considering her age.

“The other riders in her class were about 16 years old and were born in the saddle.

“Vikki will have learned a lot from competing at the RHS for the first time.”

Her next big tournament takes place later this month when she has entered six classes at the Welsh Home Pony International from July 16-20, competing against riders from throughout the UK.