Northamptonshire rider and veteran horse seal hat trick with third consecutive endurance win

Bella Fricker, from the Northamptonshire and Milton Keynes area, and her 17-year-old horse Spanish Heir have achieved a remarkable hat trick, securing their third consecutive win on Sunday 15th August in a competitive 80km class at Thetford Forest. The victory marks a high point in a hugely successful season for the partnership.

The win at Thetford was in an 80km Competitive Endurance Ride (CER), where the first combination to successfully complete the course and pass the final veterinary inspection is declared the winner. This achievement was the final piece of a three-win streak, beginning in June with a victory in a challenging 80km CER at Piddle, Dorset, on a particularly hot day with testing hills and hard ground. A month later, the pair won the 60km CER at the very same Thetford venue, showing their consistency and preparation before returning in August for their third triumph.

For those new to the sport, endurance riding is an exhilarating challenge where horse and rider partnerships navigate a marked route over a set distance. Horse welfare is the highest priority, with compulsory veterinary checks, known as ‘vet gates’, taking place before, during, and after the ride. Vets monitor the horse’s soundness, heart rate, and overall condition to ensure they are fit to continue. To succeed requires an incredible bond, meticulous preparation, and careful management throughout the ride and during recovery.

Reflecting on their success, Bella said: “I’m just so proud of Chip. To win three in a row is an amazing feeling, and it’s a real testament to his heart and experience. He is 17 now and started his career 11 years ago, so he knows his job inside out. The course at Piddle was tough in the heat, so to come back from that and perform so well at Thetford twice is just fantastic. He’s a very special horse and this season has been a dream.”

The achievement is a perfect example of the strong partnership that underpins the sport of endurance. For Spanish Heir, known at home as Chip, to be competing and winning at this level after more than a decade in the sport is a testament to the dedicated care and training he has received from Bella throughout his long career. The pair also secured a second-place finish in a 60km ride at Shuckburgh in Northamptonshire in May, highlighting their consistent form this season.

Success in endurance is always a team effort, and Bella is quick to thank the organisers and volunteers who make the events possible, as well as her support crew who are essential on the day. “We couldn’t do it without the incredible organisers and the volunteers who give up their time. And a huge thank you to my crew – they are the ones running with water buckets and making sure both Chip and I have everything we need.”

Bella and Chip’s story showcases the adventure, achievement, and deep sense of partnership that defines endurance riding. Endurance GB offers a welcoming community and opportunities for all, from grassroots pleasure rides to competitive international championships, celebrating the journey of every horse and rider.