SHE is the best equine undergraduate in the country.

University Centre Sparsholt student Sofia Forino has won first place at the 2021 Equine Science Symposium which took place virtually this year.

Her abstract called 'An investigation into self-perception of body image in female equestrians in the United Kingdom' is part of the research being conducted with the centre's British Horse Foundation lecturer bursary funding.

It was presented alongside research projects from undergraduates studying across the globe.

Written in collaboration with UCS lecturers Lorna Cameron, Natalie Stones and Dr Marianne Freeman, the research explores self-perception of body image and the potential impact on well-being and performance in the equine industry.

Judges at the symposium were delighted by Sofia’s research and strong presentation skills, and said: “This was one of the best presentations I saw during the conference."

Sofia said: “I was very excited to undertake this research and to present my findings at the 2021 Equine Science Symposium. I am absolutely thrilled to have won the undergraduate competition and I would like to thank UCS lectures for their help and support throughout."

Tutor, Lorna Cameron added: “We are so proud of Sofia’s research, and she presented in a professional and engaging manner, generating lots of interest from the judges and audience alike.”