A cross-country fence at the British Eventing (BE) Penrith Horse Trials proved to be something to write home about after it was much admired by riders for its fun and colourful presence.
The pencil-shaped jump was sponsored by Cumbrian children’s author and equestrian enthusiast, Helen Haraldsen, who is best known as The Writer in Wellies, and pointed out her passion for storytelling. Both the top rail and its groundline were made to look like pencils.
“I saw a post on Facebook from Katharine [Martin, organiser] in January that said the event would be running in April and September 2025 and sponsors for fences and classes were needed,” explained Helen.
“I used to compete in British Eventing myself and I know how brilliant the events are. I also know how much there is to organise and the costs involved so I was keen to support the new organisers to ensure we still have BE in Cumbria.”
A sketchy idea
“It was my birthday when I contacted her to express an interest in sponsoring a fence, though Katharine didn’t know it, and I asked if it would be possible to have a pencil fence, since I’m an author.
“I meant it as a joke, thinking that all the jumps were portable and already made, but that they could maybe create some sort of pencil shaped prop that could be added to the side of a jump,” continued Helen.
“I was amazed when Katharine replied to say that Rob [McSkimming, course builder and designer] had agreed to make a brand-new pencil fence especially for me.
“What a birthday present!”
Video
Watch the pink BE90 pencil fence being jumped in the following video:
The pencil fence
The pencil fence came in four different sizes and colours for the BE80, BE90, BE100 and novice levels.
It was located in a prime position, behind the water jump and in full view of the control box and main arena, at the horse trials which took place at Frenchfield Farm in Carleton.
“I attended on both days to be a fence judge at the pencils and it was great to hear the comments from riders as they walked the course — and to see the combinations jumping it,” said Helen.
“Many remarked that the fence was fun, colourful and something different. It rode well on both days with every combination jumping it beautifully.
“As I’m The Writer in Wellies, I took some welly boots filled with flowers to dress the fences too, adding another unique touch.”
A draw-some experience
“I loved being a fence sponsor. Having spent a few decades as a rider/competitor, it was interesting to be on the other side of things,” added Helen.
“It was also a great opportunity for visibility among the equestrian community to hopefully help them discover my pony books.
“I can’t wait to return for the September event.”
Helen has written the best-selling Amber’s Pony Tales series, which is based on her own ponies and experiences.
Her most recent book, Duble the Racing Shetland and Poppy, is about a real-life Shetland pony and his journey to becoming a star of the Shetland Pony Grand National.
“Whenever I’m not writing, I’m outside in my wellies with my horses and dogs in the Cumbrian rain,” said Helen.
“My books reflect that love for animals and adventure, and I want to inspire young readers to get outside and explore the magic of the countryside.”
Image and video © Helen Haraldsen
