By Isle of Wight Observer
A young rider, from Niton, has been crowned Endurance GB Junior Champion after an exceptional year on the national circuit. Twelve‑year‑old Alice Critchison secured the title, thanks to consistently high scores throughout the 2025 season with her pony, Ashley Kate – known as Pumpkin.
Alice competes in endurance riding, a long‑distance discipline that tests stamina, speed, and horsemanship across challenging terrain, with strict veterinary checks to ensure horse welfare. Events range from 16km (10 miles) to elite 160km rides, where finishing in excellent condition is as important as speed.
Throughout the season, Alice travelled across the UK to compete, with travel provided by Wightlink through the Isle of Wight Council’s ‘Talented Athlete’ scheme. She was also named Endurance GB Young Volunteer of the Year for regularly helping at events.
Her achievements have also earned her a place on the 2026 Talented Athlete scheme, providing continued travel support, access to One Leisure facilities, and discounted specialist physiotherapy and sports massage.
Wightlink’s Sam Woodman praised Alice as “a very deserving champion”, and said her success showed the value of supporting young Island athletes.
Alice said she was proud of her season with Pumpkin, and thanked her mum and granny and the Talented Athlete scheme for their support, adding she “can’t wait for the 2026 season to begin.”
Rufus Pickles - Local Democracy Reporter