Twelve-year-old event rider recognised for her commitment, positive attitude and willingness to learn
Twelve-year-old event rider Charlotte Bell has been named the August winner of the British Eventing Spotlight Award, which celebrates grassroots competitors who demonstrate commitment, sportsmanship and a positive contribution to the eventing community.
Presented jointly by The Howden Way and British Eventing, the monthly award recognises individuals who embody the shared values of both organisations. British Eventing lead coaches nominate riders from their regions, with the winner selected by Olympic gold medallist Laura Collett.
As the August winner, Charlotte will receive a uvex exxential 3 riding helmet, courtesy of Zebra Products.
Youth Programme commitment earns regional nomination
Charlotte was nominated by coach Will Murray on behalf of the North region after impressing during her first year in the British Eventing Youth Programme.
She has attended training throughout the spring and worked to adapt her riding to suit her two horses, Watermill Jamie and Pentrecoed Tom-Boy.
Will said: “Charlotte joined our Youth Programme this year at just 12 years old and has been attending training throughout the spring. She has worked incredibly hard to adapt her riding to suit her two very different horses, Watermill Jamie and Pentrecoed Tom-Boy, and it has been fantastic to see her develop.
“She is a real pleasure to coach and always arrives at every training session with such a positive attitude and willingness to learn.”
Laura Collett praises Charlotte’s attitude
Laura Collett selected Charlotte from the shortlisted nominees, highlighting the young rider’s commitment to training and determination to improve.
Laura said: “Charlotte really stood out to me as a very deserving winner. At just 12 years old, the commitment she has already shown to her training and her willingness to learn and adapt her riding to two very different horses is really impressive.
“Having a positive attitude and being prepared to listen, learn and keep working hard are such important qualities for any young rider, and it sounds as though Charlotte has those in abundance. I’m delighted to select her as this month’s winner and look forward to following her progress.”
Olympic ambitions for young event rider
Charlotte described winning the award as an unexpected but particularly special achievement.
She said: “I’m absolutely over the moon to have won the Spotlight Award! I really wasn’t expecting it, which makes it even more special. ‘Tomboy’ and I have grown up together and this has been our first BE season, so I’m really proud of how far we’ve come and everything we’ve learnt along the way.
“The regional training has been brilliant. I’ve learnt so much from Will Murray and all the coaches, and I’ve loved meeting other riders and being part of such a supportive team. Even when things haven’t gone to plan, like our unlucky finish at the Festival of Youth, I’ve learnt to take the positives and use them to improve.
“My dream is to make the GB Pony Team with Tomboy one day and, ultimately, I’d love to get to the Olympics. I know there’s a lot of hard work ahead, but I’m excited to keep learning, improving and enjoying the journey with him.”
Recognising positive contributions to eventing
The Spotlight Award is open to British Eventing grassroots members competing at BE80 to BE100 level.
Nominees are recognised for prioritising horse welfare and athlete wellbeing, supporting an inclusive training and competition environment, embracing personal development and demonstrating sportsmanship.
The initiative also celebrates riders who act as positive role models while contributing to a supportive and collaborative eventing community.
