Katy and Eagle land place at royal show

KATY and Soaring Eagle in full flight

A young Saddleworth horsewoman hopes her pony lives up to its high-flying name when she takes part in a prestigious royal event.

Katy Rothwell (14), a pupil at Hulme Grammar School, has qualified for the Royal International Horse Show at Hickstead in July riding her pony Orielton Aquilla (“Soaring Eagle”).

Katy qualified after competing in the British Show Pony Society Cheshire Premier Show earlier this month, the only rider to complete a clear round in her event.

Katy’s proud mother Diane said: “She rode last and we were just so pleased. It’s great when a real underdog on the day comes out on top.

“It was only when Katy was pulled out in first place we realised she had won. Alan didn’t know what the fuss was about it was explained she had won a ticket to compete at Hickstead, the most prestigious horse show of the summer. Katy will be at the RIHS for three days from July 30