Philippa pipped in Foxhunter qualifier

LOCAL showjumper Philippa Dobby was desperately unlucky not to qualify for the prestigious Horse & Hound Foxhunter Championship at the Horse of the Year Show.

With two tickets for the final on offer in the qualifier at the Addington Manor Summer Classic, the former Diggle rider had the misfortune to finish third.

But it was still a terrific effort from Philippa who finished behind Robert Smith and Robert Whitaker, two of the sport’s biggest names, in a 74-strong field.

Philippa, who was riding Nirvana D’Oc, made the 11-horse jump-off and went clear again only for the two Roberts to each post faster times.

The Horse & Hound Foxhunter Championship is one of the major equestrian classes which is aimed at up-and-coming grade C horses with winnings of less than £600.