honours at yesterday's Doddington Park Horse Trials in England.

Competing in 80 degree heat against a field of 78 competitors in one of two advanced intermediate sections, Tumbridge, aboard Bermuda's Pizzazz, recorded just 34 penalty points for the three exercises -- dressage, show jumping and cross-country -- to beat New Zealander Andrew Nicholson into second place.

Tumbridge scored 31 for the dressage and was penalised three time faults during the cross-country, but had a clear show jumping round to secure the top spot.

Although the brightest, Tumbridge was not the only star to shine with several other locals placing high up at the meet used as a vital tune-up heading toward the Olympic Games in Barcelona next month.

Peter Gray, Dennis Cherry and teenager Tim Collins also fared well at the old country mansion that is Doddington Park.

Gray and Cherry, slotted in the same division as Tumbridge, both placed in the top 20 as did Collins participating in a second section. Gray guided his horse, Heino, to 49 penalty points and sixth spot courtesy of a 37 dressage, clear show jumping and only 12 time penalties for the cross-country, while Cherry on Bermuda Connection wound up 17th -- 43 dressage, five showjumping and 15 time penalties for cross-country.

The other advanced section saw Tumbridge switch to her Pan American Championships silver medal-winning mount, Bermuda's Option. And although not quite as successful as in the first, she performed well enough for 14th spot with a 59 total.

Sixteen-year-old Collins, who placed 20th, was a pleasant surprise with his score of 71. And he also gained much-needed experience against top competition, which should bode well for the future.

"We're very delighted with the performance of the Bermuda riders,'' said Bermuda Equestrian Federation spokesperson Mike Collins. "It's a very encouraging result and a very good day for Bermuda.'' Collins had particular praise for Tumbridge who he said was ecstatic about her performance.

"She's over the moon.'' MARY JANE TUMBRIDGE -- Peaking at the right time.