Press Release YOUNG Amy Ion is heading for the Royal International Horse Show after qualifying for the 138cm show jumping championship. Based near Carlise in Cumbria, Amy (14) qualified for the prestigious competition with her 23-year-old pony Tyson II. Amy and her sister Beth (12) are keen competitors on the show jumping circuit and together have five ponies to ride this season. As well as Tyson the sisters also compete Golden Fortune and Jackdaw, both also in the 138cm category. Amy travelled five-and-a-half hours to The Hand in Somerset to gain her ticket to the RIHS when finishing in third place in an exceptionally strong class with more than 45 starters. Both Amy and Beth ride in saddles from the Sue Carson Saddles range and they have been delighted how much they have helped them perform at their best. Said Amy: “Tyson jumped brilliantly, I was so pleased to qualify, there were only three of us left to jump the third and final round. “When you are competing it is so important that your saddle helps both you and your pony to be in perfect harmony. “I can’t wait to go to the Royal International in the summer. It was a long way to go to The Hand, but well worth it when I realised we had qualified.” The sisters are trained by Susan Bowman who has proved a real help in their progress. Amy has owned and ridden Tyson for 14 months after he arrived on Christmas Eve from Bristol. Added Amy: “He is just the best and I feel very lucky to have him.” ENDS For further information please contact Tim Smith at TSM on (01724) 784600.