The Royal Hospital School (RHS) in Holbrook, Ipswich is celebrating its equestrian team after they delivered an outstanding performance at the Forest Edge Equestrian Centre, securing a remarkable victory in the 90cm class during a fiercely contested showjumping qualifier for the National Championships. Competing against schools from Suffolk, Norfolk, Essex, and Cambridgeshire, the RHS team, comprised of Molly Nichols (Year 13), Matteo Cue Quintero (Year 12), and Maisie Low (Year 9), finished an astonishing 20 seconds ahead of the competition.
Each RHS rider showcased exceptional skill and determination:
- Matteo Cue Quintero, representing the school team for the first time on a horse he has only been riding since October, delivered fast double clears in both the 90cm and 1m classes. His efforts earned him individual 2nd place finishes in both events, qualifying him for Nationals in both categories.
- Molly Nichols, the team captain, demonstrated poise and precision, completing flawless rounds that secured her 4th place in the 90cm class and a qualification for Nationals. She also placed 6th in the 1m event.
- Maisie Low, the youngest member of the team, contributed significantly with confident and precise riding, which was instrumental in the team’s overall success.
This triumph is especially impressive given the team’s small size, as every rider’s performance directly impacts the final score. Their dedication, teamwork, and commitment to their sport have been exemplary and a source of pride for the school.
Sophie Judge, Head of Classics at RHS commented: “I am incredibly proud of the whole team for working together from across different year groups. This sport demands a tremendous amount of dedication and commitment outside of school. For them to have earned qualification so early in the season—and by such a significant margin—is a truly outstanding achievement. I also want to extend my gratitude to the parents, without whose support this would not have been possible.”
 The RHS community extends its heartfelt gratitude to the parents for their unwavering support, which plays an essential role in the team’s success.
Looking ahead, the RHS equestrian team is gearing up for their next challenge—a Hickstead Arena Eventing qualifier in Essex on 23rd February.
Categories: Royal Hospital School School News
