Organised for the last 12 years by Jo and Peter Claridge on behalf of Endurance GB, the Boconnoc Ride brought together a vibrant mix of local talent, national champions, and dedicated volunteers for a two-day event that blended competitive riding with a strong sense of community spirit.

Set in the shadow of the historic Georgian Boconnoc House and against the stunning backdrop of rolling parkland, ancient woodland and private trails not normally open to the public, the event offered a rare opportunity for riders to test themselves across varied terrain in a truly exceptional setting.

Yet beyond the placings and miles covered, what truly sets Boconnoc apart is the sense of family that runs through the whole weekend. Many of the riders and volunteers have returned year after year, forming a tight-knit community bonded by shared early starts, muddy boots and laughter under the trees.

Fittingly, this year’s ride once again coincided with Father’s Day, a quiet nod to the husbands, boyfriends, fathers and grandfathers who turn up without fuss, manning pit stops, cooling horses, and handing out water and sustenance to riders and horses who barely pause before heading off again. Their tireless support, so often unnoticed, is at the very heart of what makes endurance possible and keeps events like Boconnoc thriving year after year.

Saturday saw the start of the longer distance classes, with local hopefuls Carina Kane and Glenda Smith tackling the Boconnoc Hart two-day 120km ride. Also in the line-up was vet and international rider Georgina Vaughan, competing in the Boconnoc Bowl 80km CER, this year an important qualifier for the National Championships at the Red Dragon Ride due to take place later this year.

There was also excitement around the participation of former national champions Judy Holloway and Jessie Lethbridge in the Boconnoc Hind 64km ride, both seasoned South West riders who once again demonstrated why this region continues to produce top-level endurance talent.

With a full schedule of classes from 16-120km running across both days, with over 150 entries, the event welcomed a wide range of riders, from newcomers to seasoned competitors, all supported by an exceptional team of volunteers who helped manage essential vet checks, route marking, and logistics behind the scenes.

The first day was extremely challenging with the going wet and deep after heavy rain the day before and overnight. However successful completions were high at all levels with the following results for the main Signature classes:

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Boconnoc Bowl 80km CER

1st Georgina Vaughan on Vlacq Zilal

Boconnoc Stag 80km GER

1st Livvy Miller on DD Nadhira Khahlifa

2nd Vicky Ham on HS Remy

Boconnoc Hind 64km GER

1st Amanda Hamley on More Salutes

2nd Wendy Emerson on Dizzy Miss Lizzy

3rd Jessie Lethbridge on Mountedgcumbe Velveteen

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Much brighter weather dawned on day two which saw equally good success rates and the following Signature class results:

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Boconnoc Hart 2 day 120km GER

1st Glenda Smith on Lindance Easter Boy

Sadly Carina Kane's horse Treswarrow Rosco trotted up a little unlevel at the finish so did not pass the vet

Phoenix Field Arabians Deer Park Challenge 2 day 80km GER

1st Imogen Kaczmarek on Tula-Llula

2nd Caroline Thomas on Mis Me Kensa

3rd Sally Rowe on Brownbread Easter Rabbit

Boconnoc Fawn 2 day 48km GER

1st Jo Lethbridge on Red House Quest

2nd Alice Reeves on Dazzling Star

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There were also lots of other happy novice to advanced riders and horses that achieved their personal goals ranging from 16-48km in the day.

Despite the unseasonable weather, riders, spectators and crew alike were treated to a weekend of well-run sport in a setting that felt both professional and welcoming. As ever, the success of the event was as much down to the behind the scenes efforts from the organisers and their team of volunteers and the riders in the saddle, a clear reflection of the passion and dedication that defines the endurance riding community here in Cornwall and beyond.

The organisers extend their thanks to the sponsors whose support made the Boconnoc Ride possible:

The Claridge’s Phoenix Field Arabians – www.phoenixfieldarabians.co.uk

The Varcoe Family

Hilton Herbs – www.hiltonherbs.com

Verm-X – www.verm-x.com

The Golden Paste Company – www.goldenpastecompany.co.uk

BodyMe – www.bodyme.co.uk

Farlap Photography – www.farlap-photography.com

Connected Pilates with Jane Stevens

Da Bara Bakery www.dabara.co.uk 

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For those who missed it, full results and further details can be found on the Endurance GB website: www.endurancegb.co.uk

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