I'd love to see the federations work together

Graham Fletcher on an exciting concept and his favourite sporting moment

- Jennifer Donald

I RECENTLY criticised our national championships for being held in such a drab setting. However, the national title remains a great one that’s definitely worth keeping. Full marks to the current holder Rebecca Marsh who’s ridden really well all year.

I was lucky enough to win it a couple of times when it took place in the main ring at the Royal Show in front of massive crowds – and it deserves to be elevated into such a prestigious event once again.

The Irish currently decide their national title over a series of shows. But I’d love to see the British and Irish federations work together to run a three-day All-Ireland and British Championship.

It could alternate between the two nations each year. Ideally held in May or June, the overall winner would receive an invitation to compete at the Royal International at Hickstead and Dublin Horse Show.

I’d make the show’s middle night a fun night, opened with a speed class with a difference. The chefs d’equipe would pick five British and five Irish riders, but instead of adding their scores together, they’d go head-to-head in a penalty shootout format. The bookies might like that one...