The NAF Five Star Winter dressage Championships and Petplan Winter Area Festival Championships at Addington Equestrian concluded with notable performances from young riders and promising partnerships. Demi Howard-Cartwright, transitioning from junior European levels, secured a close second in the Magic Prix St Georges on Newton Astro Nascente, using a strategic approach by treating an earlier test as a warm-up. Their partnership is developing rapidly, with ambitions for grand prix and potential European selection. Holly Bates also impressed, taking silver in the Superflex Inter I on Hillgrounds Feinline, emphasizing a measured, enjoyable ride with grand prix prospects in the future.

At the Winter Area Festival Championships, Sofia Mirza and Sheepcote Adios earned the advanced medium bronze after narrowly missing out on earlier wins. Sofia highlighted the challenge and reward of riding the large gelding, with plans to continue progressing up the levels. The championships showcased emerging talent and evolving horse-rider partnerships, with riders focusing on steady development and long-term goals in dressage.