WHEN it comes to stressful weeks, Annandale teenager Tara Kane knows all about it.
For not only is she in the midst of her Nat 5s at Lockerbie Academy, but the 15-year-old has also been competing in the Grassroots Championships at Badminton Horse Trials over the last few days.
Following her English exam on Tuesday, Tara made the 350 mile trip south to meet up with her mum Margaret and horse Annaveigh Vahey, who were already getting settled in.
And on Wednesday horse and rider were out competing on the course, with a special exception to do all three grassroot event disciplines on the same day due to her exams.
The pair completed a clear round in showjumping, a ‘lovely’ dressage test, and a fast and clear cross country course.
Margaret said: “The final result was that she finished on her dressage score with a double clear and no time penalties. Just less than 100 competitors in the class and she finished in the top third.
“Anna is the smallest horse in that class but those wee springs on her hooves work so well.
“Tara was the youngest in the adult class — and for two years in a row has had a double clear at the Badminton Horse Trials.
“Standing at the famous Badminton lake watching your daughter jump is something that will stick in my head for the rest of my life.”
Tara, who lives in Eastriggs, and Anna are now getting a few days rest before it’s back to both exams and preparation for International 2* at the end of the month.
