An Aberdeenshire rider has been selected to take part in a prestigious eventing competition this weekend.
Eilidh Middleton and her horse Westmur Quality, also known as Buddy, have been selected to join the Event Rider Masters (ERM) series, which debuts at the Blair Castle International Horse Trials today and tomorrow.
Launched last year, the ERM series is specific to 3* level eventing competitors, with each rider and horse combination selected to take part in the series by a committee.
This year’s contest comprises seven legs of competitions incorporating iconic British and European events where riders will battle it out for the coveted Event Rider Masters title and a £30,000 series first prize.
Competitors include Olympic medallist Sir Mark Todd, Andrew Nicholson, William Fox-Pitt and Pippa Funnell. In addition to these well-known names, an elite group of young and talented riders, of which Ms Middleton is included, have been selected to make their ERM series debut.
Ms Middleton, who lives near Banchory, started her riding career on Shetland ponies at her parents’ farm at a young age.
To date, her riding career has included the Pony Club open eventing championships, British junior teams and competing at her first 2* at the age of 17.
She said she always knew she would end up working with horses, and her dream this year was to compete buddy at their first 3* event, – an ambition which was realised at the Burghan Horse Trials last month.
“I’m so excited to be selected for the Event Riders Masters, if not a little overwhelmed,” said Ms Middleton.
“It’s a great honour and will be an amazing experience to be competing with the top names in British and International eventing. It’s also the only leg of the series which is being held in Scotland, so competing in front of a home crowd will make it even more special.”
She paid tribute to her support team, including fiance Patrick, who she is set to marry next month.
Two local companies sponsored Ms Middleton in her riding efforts.
They are Aberdeen-based country and equestrian clothing store Country Ways and Sue Emery Equine Sports Therapy.
Country Ways owner Rosemary Michie said: “We are absolutely delighted for Eilidh and Buddy.
“Their talent, determination and hard work are being recognised in selection for this prestigious series.
“Everyone in the area will be cheering them on and she has tremendous support from so many people within the Eventing community. We wish her all the best at Blair.”