SRUC Equestrian team gallops into UK National Finals
The SRUC Equestrian Club is celebrating a landmark achievement after the SRUC A team were crowned winners of the Scottish BUCS Equestrian Championship League Regionals, securing their place at the UK National Equestrian Finals this June.
The team delivered an outstanding performance at the regional competition, continuing a remarkable season in which they topped their league table and won all qualifying fixtures. Their success now sees them progress to the prestigious BUCS Championship & Trophy Finals, taking place from 9-11 June.
Alongside the team victory, riders also achieved impressive individual results, highlighting the strength and depth of talent within the squad:
Laura Patterson: 2nd place
Arianna McGruther: 3rd place
Evie Maclean-Yuille: 5th place
The SRUC team, made up of Captain Evie Maclean-Yuille, Ella Crooke, Laura Patterson and Arianna McGruther, has trained with dedication since the club was established in September last year. Training has been based at NMW Riding Academy in Inverurie, where riders have prepared for both dressage and showjumping competitions throughout the season.
Competing in BUCS equestrian events requires riders to demonstrate adaptability and skill, with horses randomly allocated at each venue. Despite the challenge, the team consistently excelled across competitions hosted at NMW Riding Academy, Crieff Hydro in Perth and Hayfield Equestrian Centre, Aberdeen, against universities from across Scotland.
The club also benefited from strong individual performances throughout the year, with Evie and Ella recognised among the top riders in Scotland.
Captain Evie said: “We are incredibly proud of what the team has achieved this season. To win the regional championship and qualify for the national finals is a huge milestone for us all. The support we’ve received from SRUC, our sponsors, coaches and everyone involved with the club has meant so much.”
As the team prepares to compete on the national stage in June, fundraising and sponsorship support continue to play an important role in helping riders cover competition costs, travel and accommodation.
Thank you to sponsors EqueStride and Stuart Lindsay Equine Dentistry for their support for the Regionals.
They are now looking for sponsorship for the National Championships to help cover the overall cost of £2,650.
Anyone interested in supporting SRUC Equestrian Club can contact the team via email at sruc.equestrian@gmail.com
Posted by SRUC on 02/06/2026