17/06/2026
🌟 From first competitive start to 80km CER winner 🌟
Huge congratulations to Beth Langley-Pascoe and HS Estella, known at home as Estrid, winners of the 80km CER at Lavenham on Saturday 13th June.
The pair completed the course at an average speed of 16.86kmph, crossing the line just one second ahead of Jenny Newby and Nicsar Diamond Jubilee after the two combinations had ridden the full 80km together.
For Beth, who has represented Great Britain during a long and successful endurance career, this was a particularly special result. Not only was it Beth’s first race since 2018, it was also Estrid’s first ever competitive endurance ride.
Beth has owned the 10-year-old mare for five years, having bought her from the same stud as Tissy, her previous team horse.
“Estrid is very sensitive, easily overwhelmed and wears her heart on her sleeve,” said Beth. “She’s taken longer to get to where she is than most horses, but when you put a saddle on she’s good as gold and an absolute pleasure to ride.”
Beth chose Lavenham carefully, knowing the well-run venue, clear marking and busy vet gate environment would suit Estrid and help give her a positive first experience.
“The main goal is always positive experience first, competitive edge second, no matter what,” said Beth. “I always try to just ride my own ride plan and if that gets me a good placing, great. If it doesn’t, I’ve ridden in a way that’s best for my horse and the conditions on the day.”
Beth and Jenny discussed the finish around 7km from home and decided that, with a downhill slope towards a road, a flat-out race was not the right choice for horses with bigger long-term goals.
“Our goals for our horses are so much bigger than one placing in one race, so we decided to cross the line together,” Beth explained.
Estrid led for almost the entire 80km — a huge achievement for a mare who has not always been confident with horses behind her.
“She felt really strong and enthusiastic,” said Beth. “I was really proud of her attitude. I think she was mentally a little tired towards the end but physically she had gas in the tank!”
The icing on the cake? Estrid was also awarded Best Condition. 🏆
📸IndiePics Photography
