My Story
Training for Greatness
My parents gave up asking me what I wanted for my birthday or Christmas as it was always the same answer, “a pony!”.
Eventually, my dream came true when I was 11 years old and my father thought it would only last for 6 months! The rest is history.
Qualifications:
Up-to-date with:
CPD, Equine-specific First Aid, Child Protection, Safeguarding, and DBS Checked.
Fully insured.
Side saddle panel ride Judge in 2003.
Accredited Professional Coach (BHS Stage 3 Coach in Complete Horsemanship) – formerly BHSAI (gained in 1998).
Highest side saddle competency grade IV+ - August 1997.“B” panel Side Saddle Instructor’s certificate - December 1993.
First 3 side saddle competency grades - September 1993.
A Trainer’s Career
Sport is in My Blood
From a young age, my passion for horses was evident. I recall how my parents would ask me the same question every birthday and Christmas: "What do you want?" And my answer never wavered, always echoing the same desire: "A pony!" It seemed like an unattainable dream, but when I turned 11, fate intervened, and my father surprised me with a pony. Little did he know that my love for horses would endure far beyond his expectations.
Fortunate circumstances led me to keep my pony at a local livery/riding school, where I had the privilege of learning from esteemed BHS and visiting army instructors during the summer school holidays. Their guidance kept me on the right path, instilling in me high standards and meticulous attention to detail. I seized every spare moment to absorb as much equestrian knowledge as possible. Becoming a member of the livery's small riding club, I delved into various disciplines and even progressed to the esteemed Pony Club (South Trent). Through this journey, I took examinations, showcased my skills at county shows in the East Midlands area, and nurtured a deep passion for teaching.
Despite the career advice I received at school, as well as my parents' attempts to dissuade me, my determination to pursue a career in horse riding instruction remained steadfast. In an effort to appease my parents, I enrolled in a two-year college course for the London Chamber of Commerce & Industry, studying the Private Secretary's Course. The office-based skills I acquired, including advanced-level typewriting, shorthand, word processing, office practice, and commerce, have proven invaluable throughout my journey. Since leaving college in June 1990, I have worked in various office jobs across multiple industries, such as commercial properties, community mental health, probation service, solicitors, accountancy, and health services. These roles have served as a means to finance my ongoing equine training, examinations, and competitions.
In 1990, a serendipitous discovery unfolded when my mother stumbled upon an article in a magazine about side saddle riding. Intrigued by this new challenge, I embarked on over 20 years of competing in this discipline, eventually becoming a specialist instructor and judge. To this day, I cherish the privilege of engaging in side saddle riding and sharing my expertise with others.
After the unfortunate passing of my side saddle competition horse in 2013, I yearned for a fresh endeavour. That's when a 15hh 4-year-old grey Lusitano mare named Ginja entered my life. Possessing a diva-like attitude that endures to this day, Ginja became my new companion in May 2015. Together, we have embarked on a transformative journey, filled with valuable lessons and growth. I owe much of our progress to my exceptional trainer, Alexandra Downing, whose expertise and guidance have been invaluable. Though Ginja's cleverness often proves challenging, we are currently working towards competing this year, albeit with the understanding that it takes time to decipher her intricate personality.
As a horse riding coach, I am dedicated to sharing my knowledge, experience, and love for horses with my students. I believe that every rider has the potential to grow and excel, and I am committed to guiding them on their own remarkable equestrian journeys. With a blend of expertise, passion, and a touch of determination, I strive to nurture riders and their equine partners, helping them become the best versions of themselves.
