Stratton speeds to Victory

A tight crosscountry time plays into the hands of one intermediate winner, while two Olympians bag double victories

- ELLIE HUGHES

A swift turn of foot across country gave Jemima Stratton and Global Exotic (Joey) the edge in intermediate section C.

It came as no surprise that the 22-year-old University of Exeter English graduate was the only one across the three sections at this level to crack the 5min 29sec optimum – for the past three summers she’s ridden out racehorses for leading Flat trainer Ralph Beckett.

“I’m very comfortable going fast,” admitted Jemima. “When I realised that no one was getting the time I knew I could get my nose in front with a quick round.”