The British Team won the European Association of Racing Schools (EARS) Apprentice Race at Cologne on Sunday 19th October.

Although an Italian rider Manuele Guiseppe won the race on Princely Gift, Debbie England, representing The British Racing School, finished third on Sizliana and Matthew Birch, representing the Northern Racing College, finished fourth on My Tho making the British Team the overall team winners.

Debbie, who has ridden five winners in her career, was having her first ride abroad. Debbie commented after the race 'This was a fantastic experience and it was great to meet the riders from the other countries. I hope that it may result in new opportunities for me to ride on the Continent in the future'. As well as having the opportunity to ride in the race, riders also rode out in the mornings for top local trainer Peter Schiergen. The visit also included sightseeing and a visit to the famous stud Gestat Rottgen. The 2009 race will take place at Pisa in Italy.