Shebbear College pupils achieve international success at Pony Club Nations Cup
Two equestrian scholars from Shebbear College are celebrating international success after representing England and Ireland at the prestigious Pony Club Nations Cup during the Osberton International Horse Trials.
Neve Webber, in the Lower Sixth, and Isobel Thrasher, in Year 11, were selected to compete for their respective countries, rewarding their dedication and commitment to eventing.
Competing for Ireland in the one-star (1*) competition, Isobel helped her team secure fourth place and also achieved an impressive fourth place individually against a strong international field.
Riding her horse, Bonza King of Rouges, whom she has ridden since she was 13, Isobel said: “It’s an incredible feeling to be selected to represented for your country. A once in a lifetime opportunity! To wrap up the season on a high at such a big event was very cool.”
Meanwhile, Neve and her horse, Hey Dixie, represented England in the two-star (2*) competition, where their team claimed victory in the Nations Cup. Neve also secured third place in the individual standings.
Describing the experience, Neve said: “The atmosphere was amazing, we were parked next to the Olympic and 5* riders which was quite surreal.”
She said her favourite moment of the weekend was completing a clear showjumping round, adding: “I worked really hard and to get the clear round was such a relief! The showjumping is so nerve wracking, everyone’s watching and if a pole falls then you’re out. I hold my breath the whole time!”
Both riders delivered strong performances across all three phases of eventing, demonstrating skill, composure and determination. Their dressage scores and clear jumping rounds reflected the training and preparation behind their selection for the international competition.
Neve and Isobel are both Sport Scholars at Shebbear College, where equestrian sport continues to thrive. The school offers scholarships at 11+, 13 and Sixth Form entry to recognise pupils' strengths in academic subjects, sport, and the performing and creative arts. Significant fee discounts are available at Sixth Form level, supported by the college's owners, Inspired Learning Group.
Applications are now open for scholarships for pupils currently in Years 6, 8 and 11. The application deadline is 9am on Saturday, October 31, 2026, with interviews and auditions scheduled for November 16 to 20. Scholarships will be awarded by Friday, December 18.
Further information and application details are available on the Shebbear College website. Enquiries can also be sent to [email protected].