RDA Magazine Winter 2016

WINTER 2016

The official magazine of Riding for the Disabled Association

Monitoring

SUCCESS Evaluating therapeutic outcomes – we take an in-depth look at the RDA Outcomes Tracker

PLUS+ RIDING

DRIVING

Sue Adams-Wheeler shares the RDA ‘magic’, worldwide

COMPETITIONS

Clare Balding discusses the RDA vision – exclusive interview

EDUCATION

THERAPY

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RIDING FOR THE DISABLED ASSOCIATION INCORPORATING CARRIAGE DRIVING A UK COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NO 5010395. A CHARITY REGISTERED IN ENGLAND & WALES (NO 244108) AND SCOTLAND (NO SC039473)

Message from the editor

SO, HERE WE ARE – OUR NEW RDA MAGAZINE’S FIRST ISSUE! OUR GOAL IS SIMPLE: WE WANT TO REACH OUT TO MORE OF YOU – the riders and carriage drivers, the volunteers and supporters. After all, without you, RDA UK simply could not survive.

We hope to inform, engage and inspire you with stories about disability sport and equestrianism, collected from across the UK and abroad. And how the RDA’s combination of education, therapy and fun improves the lives of thousands of people.

In this premier issue, we follow Sue AdamsWheeler’s global adventures (page 10) as she shares the magic of RDA coaching.

Always with the rider’s benefit in mind, we learn how the Outcomes Tracker provides invaluable insights, helps set goals and tracks progress (page 14).

In a fascinating Q&A, Clare Balding describes that key moment when she realised RDA’s importance, breadth and value (page 18).

Vet Nathalie Cole provides timely advice on horse welfare (page 20), including problem prevention and how to ensure we keep our horses’ feet healthy through the winter months.

And, of course, the regional updates share the latest news and events from around the country.

I’ve felt warmly welcomed into the RDA family, thank you. I’ll do my best to make you all proud of your new RDA magazine.

Ffion Llwyd-Jones Ffion Llwyd-Jones Editor of RDA Magazine ffion@rda.org.uk

ABOUT RIDING FOR THE DISABLED ASSOCIATION Riding for the Disabled Association Incorporating Carriage Driving (RDA) is dedicated to improving the lives of people with disabilities through the provision of horse riding, carriage driving, showjumping and vaulting.

Through a network of 500 volunteer groups throughout the UK, RDA provides opportunities for therapy, achievement and enjoyment, improving health, well-being and self confidence, and benefiting mobility and co-ordination. RDA is reliant on voluntary help, donations and legacies to deliver its services. Please donate now at rda.org.uk.

FFION LEARNED TO RIDE HORSES, FELL IN LOVE WITH HER FIRST DOG, AND STARTED PLAYING WITH WORDS AS SHE WAS GROWING UP ON ANGLESEY. THE START OF A LIFELONG PASSION FOR HORSES, DOGS, PEOPLE, AND WRITING!

RDA is a charity registered in England and Wales (No: 244108) and Scotland (No: SC039473)

rda.org.uk

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MOUNT PLEASANT RDA QUEST RDA

KAITLYN FROM MORPETH RDA

EXETER RDA

EXETER RDA

Thanks to the generous support of players of People’s Postcode Lottery many RDA Groups have seen their projects change from dream to reality! For example: • Fourteen RDA Groups have received support including a new riding arena for Mount Pleasant Group who can now ride during the winter months • Over 250 participants benefitted from travel awards which enabled them to compete at the RDA National Championships, the largest event of its kind in the world. Participants including Kaitlyn from the Morpeth Group • Over 120 groups have received 2,500 subsidised new riding hats, including Exeter Group and Quest Group •

A grand total of £800,000 has been raised for RDA by players of People’s Postcode Lottery

Thank You! Visit www.postcodelottery.co.uk to find out more Not available in Northern Ireland. People’s Postcode Lottery manages multiple society lotteries promoted by different charities supporting a range of good causes. For details of which society lottery is running each week visit www.postcodelottery.co.uk/society

The official magazine of Riding for the Disabled Association

RDA MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED BY Matrix Print Consultants Ltd Satisfaction House, Unit C, Northfield Point, Cunliffe Drive, Kettering, Northamptonshire, NN16 9QJ t: +44 (0) 1536 527 297 f: + 44 (0) 1536 527 294 e: studio@matrixprint.com w: matrixprint.com EDITOR Ffion Llwyd-Jones e: ffion@rda.org.uk DEPUTY EDITOR Caroline Ward e: cward@rda.org.uk ART DIRECTOR Rick Fraterrigo e: rick@matrixprint.com MEDIA SALES Andy Etherton e: aetherton@rda.co.uk.com EDITORIAL BOARD Ed Bracher Chief Executive, RDA UK Sam Orde Chairman RDA UK Sal Atkinson Fundraising Manager, RDA UK Sue Adams-Wheeler Chairman of Coaching Committee RDA UK Jess Cook National Partnership Advisor English Federation of Disability Sport While every care is taken in compiling this issue of RDA magazine including manuscripts and photographs submitted, we accept no responsibility for any losses or damage, whatever the cause. All information and prices contained in advertisements are accepted by the publishers in good faith as being correct at the time of going to press. Neither the advertisers nor the publishers accept any responsibility for any variations affecting price variations or availability after the publication has gone to press. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the permission of the publisher, to whom application must first be made. The views expressed by contributors to RDA magazine are not necessarily those of the RDA, the publisher or its editor. ©2016 The Riding for the Disabled Association.

Material for consideration in this section of the magazine should be submitted via email or digital file transfer to the editor. Submissions should be made on the understanding that the Riding for the Disabled Association has the right to use the material in any part of the magazine and any of its other publications, promotions or website, free from any copyright restrictions, or appearance fees other than the issue of artistic and photographic credits where applicable.

Please include name of RDA group, photographer, riders and volunteers.

10 06 NEWS From awards to e-learning

20 NO HOOF NO HORSE

10 OPPORTUNITY THROUGH CHOICE

Healthy hoof tips with Nathalie Cole, experienced equine vet

Sue Adams-Wheeler travels and teaches the RDA ‘way’

14 WHAT GOOD LOOKS LIKE

COVER IMAGE: OUR OUTCOMES TRACKER IS CHANGING THE WAY WE ASSESS RIDERS. TURN TO PAGE 14 TO FIND OUT HOW.

Denise Robertson and Dom Chambers on the RDA Outcomes Tracker

18 NOT JUST FOR POSH PEOPLE Q&A with Clare Balding

Don’t forget to have your say. Share your rides, experiences and comments by going online...

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24 ENJOYABLE ACHIEVEMENTS Charles Milner’s ‘Boom’ is picture perfect

26 REGIONAL ROUND-UP Who, what and where...

42 WHAT’S GOING ON Your essential guide to this year’s events

RDA National News

nationalnews

effective, efficient, and ethical NEWLY APPOINTED regional equine

advisors (REAs) enjoyed an induction day in November, at the RDA national office in Warwick.

Sue Adams-Wheeler, Doug Smith, and Nathalie Cole (our RDA UK volunteer vet), covered topics ranging from euthanasia to maximum carrying weights. RDA is grateful to Louise Radford from Merial Animal Health for an interesting and informative talk on flu vaccines that are available free of charge to RDA horses and ponies.

There are 13 REAs appointed within the 18 regions. It is a new RDA volunteer role,

providing information and advice to RDA groups. REAs advise groups in the effective, efficient, and ethical selection, training and use of horses within RDA, and act as training advisors for their area.

Groups can call on the local REA for information and advice, such as about a new pony, or on grazing/exercising.

The REAs are supported by Petplan Charitable Trust, and players of People’s Postcode Lottery.

ABOVE: SUE ADAMS-WHEELER (FAR LEFT), DOUG SMITH (FAR RIGHT), NATHALIE COLE (FRONT ROW, FAR LEFT), AND REAS.

Accessible Training

We understand you’re busy, so our RDA e-learning website is a convenient way to access training.

Launched in September 2015, it offers courses in governance and safeguarding; a disability awareness course will be offered in 2016. More than 500 people have made use of the training so far!

The website can be accessed

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via computer, laptop, tablet or smart phone. Sign up at rda-learning.org.uk Our in-house volunteer workshops are also increasingly popular. Free of charge to groups, the workshops cover governance, safeguarding, fundraising, Volunteer Recruitment, PR Marketing & Communication, and

Participant Experience.

Groups, counties or regions can book online or by contacting Matthew Cobble, volunteer development coordinator, at 01926 405966.

FIND OUT MORE AT RDA.ORG.UK/ RUNNINGYOURGROUP/ VOLUNTEER-TRAINING/ VOLUNTEER-WORKSHOPS

real gem RDA Ravelrig’s Jewel is the winner of STV’s series RBS Finding Scotland’s Real Heroes, which celebrates Scotland’s unsung heroes whose hard work, ingenuity, ambition and generosity has improved local communities across the nation.

The five-part series is hosted by Carol Smillie. Each programme introduces people, groups and animals, who have been nominated by members of the public for their work to improve the lives of people in their community. These ‘local heroes’ dedicate their time and effort to helping those around them, not for fame or glory, but to make their community a better place to live.

RDA National News

THE TRIBAL SERIES – THE UK’S FIRST AND ONLY DISABILITY SPORTS SERIES –

is launched with four events open to book for 2016: tribalseries.com.

Paralympian and Tribal Series founder Sophia Warner says these events are a life-long dream: ‘We’re not the London Marathon – we’re much more exciting! Our events are truly unique, and give the very people that you help the opportunity to help you right back, which makes fundraising opportunities all

WANT MORE INFORMATION? CONTACT THE TRIBAL SERIES ON 01306 627301

rda.org.uk

the more meaningful and powerful.’

Channel 4 will cover the 2016 events; its Para Tri coverage won the EVCOM Live Award for Sporting Event 2015.

‘I sincerely hope you will get behind us next year,’ Sophia adds. ‘I need your support to ensure these groundbreaking events don’t disappear, but grow and grow.

I feel very passionately that opportunities like this should be out there for the UK’s 12 million disabled people.

‘Our relays let participants

team up with disabled and non-disabled friends and family, staff and carers, and everyone is welcome to bring a buddy if they wish to push or simply accompany them around the course, so our events are truly inclusive.’

A charity discount offers three entries for the price of two, and any charity booking in six teams (for the price of four) will become a ‘charity friend’ on the website and be promoted through social media on Twitter @tribalseries and on Facebook.

SAM ORDE, RDA CHAIRMAN

3 more years

Sam Orde is re-elected as RDA Chairman for another three years. She is also a coach at Pegasus Centre RDA in Northumberland, and on the RDA magazine editorial board.

highest honour Sophie Christiansen OBE and Valerie Roy are both recipients of the Honorary Life Vice President (HLVP) award.

The HLVP appointment is the highest honour the Association bestows. It is given to an individual who had done significantly more than might be expected of their role within RDA, at a National level.

Sophie is also taking part in the BBC Lifeline Appeal (as an amazing ambassador for RDA), while Valerie is a national trustee, and regional chairperson for Grampian & Highland.

HLVP AWARD

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RDA National News

boost to Ravelrig RDA plans RAVELRIG RDA, SCOTLAND HAS A £100,000 GRANT

thanks to players of People’s Postcode Lottery. The grant, awarded by RDA UK, will boost funds towards a new indoor arena.

Ravelrig supports more than 100 children and adults with disabilities, along with military veterans. Activities are now all outside, so the new facility (including club room, toilets and viewing gallery) will bring riders, volunteers and horses indoors for the first time, enabling more people to benefit from the therapy and fun of horses.

‘We are delighted to be awarded this grant,’ said Barbara Johnstone,

Ravelrig RDA. ‘It has come at a key time to encourage, motivate and boost our development plans. We can’t thank players enough for the support they give to RDA – it really does change lives.’

The cheque was presented to the group at the RDA’s AGM. Jo Bucci, managing director of People’s Postcode Lottery gave a presentation about its support of RDA: ‘Charities supported by our players can choose exactly how they allocate funds – and this project at Ravelrig is a great example of the amazing difference those funds can make.’

‘This year we have been able to run small, medium and major grants programmes to help as many of our 500

Need Help? G E T

groups around the UK as possible,’ said Ed Bracher, RDA UK’s chief executive.

‘This one-off major grant gave us the chance to support a group undertaking a big project, and we were really impressed with the standard of the bids we received.

In selecting Ravelrig, our grants panel has identified a great project: well-organised; lots of local support; far-reaching plans; and, a great vision for the future of RDA in the area.’

HOW WOULD YOU USE A GRANT FROM RDA UK? TWEET US YOUR VIEWS @RDANATIONAL

CO NN EC TED

A GREAT RESOURCE FOR GROUPS AND VOLUNTEERS IS ‘JOININ’, FORMED FROM THE OLYMPIC LEGACY PROGRAMME WITH THE AIM OF RECRUITING MORE VOLUNTEERS TO SUPPORT GRASSROOTS SPORT. VIA THE JOININ WEBSITE, GROUPS CAN SIGN UP, CREATE A PROFILE AND ADVERTISE VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES; VOLUNTEERS CAN SEEK LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES THROUGH THE SAME WEBSITE. CAMPAIGNS INCLUDE #BIGHELPOUT TO INSPIRE 10,000 NEW VOLUNTEERS INTO COMMUNITY SPORT, AND INCLUDES THE #BIGHELPOUT QUIZ TO ‘FIND YOUR PLACE IN SPORT’. FIND OUT MORE AT JOININUK.ORG.

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RDA National News

making a difference TWO IMPORTANT PROJECTS, which will make a huge difference to RDA riders and volunteers, have received funding for 2016/17 from the BT Supporters Club.

Through Project 1, RDA UK will provide specific, tailored training to new RDA groups, equipping volunteers with knowledge and skills needed to become a fully-fledged RDA group. Topics include fundraising, safeguarding, volunteer management, and governance, delivered over two days.

Project 2 assists groups to apply to RDA UK for grants specifically to buy larger horses and new activity equipment.

In 2013, BT chose RDA just before the launch of The Supporters Club to BT customers who subscribed to

broadband and the BT Sports TV channels. RDA worked closely with the launch team to produce a promotional film, presented by RDA supporter Clare Balding. As a result, RDA received two years’ funding for group grants. Following a review at the end of the first funding period, BT was so impressed with the work and projects delivered by RDA groups that we were invited to re-apply for a further two years.

ABOVE LEFT TO RIGHT: DAME TANNI GREY-THOMPSON, AMBASSADOR OF THE SUPPORTERS CLUB, WATCHES A JUNIOR SADDLE CLUB RIDER AT KESTEVEN RDA; PONIES FROM BLAIRGOWRIE ENJOYING THE NEW PASTURE FIELD TRACK SYSTEM, FUNDED BY A GRANT THANKS TO BT SUPPORTERS CLUB IN MARCH 2015

shop success!

The RDA web shop has grown since its launch in May 2014, with lovely items ranging from handbags and children’s books, to toys and group equipment. Christmas card sales in 2015 exceeded expectations, with more than 110,000 cards sold.

As well as the online shop, we’ve been at RDA events across the country, and at the Burghley Horse Trials, Gardeners World, Your Horse Live, Rockingham Horse Trials, and Equifest. These events help raise funds for RDA, and are also fantastic for spreading the word about what we do as a charity. We encourage potential

rda.org.uk

VISIT THE RDA SHOP ONLINE AT RDASHOP.ORG.UK

new riders to take up riding with their local group, (and supply details for the local Group), and discuss volunteering opportunities. We also chat with people who are already involved with RDA in some way, hearing amazing stories of the work that happens at groups around the country.

We plan to expand the gifts range in 2016, to ensure continued and increased profits for RDA Trading, which are then transferred to the charity. We will also choose the Christmas card designs by the end of January, and a new product range will be in the web shop in early 2016.

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Opportunity

through choice

Bringing the concept – and magic – of RDA coaching to riding groups across the world. Sue Adams-Wheeler shares how it’s all coming along.

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PHYSIOTHERAPIST GINTARE MIKALAJŪNAITE (ON THE HORSE) IN LITHUANIA

International coaching

IT’S A BIG VISION – to improve the standard of RDA

coaching to its entire client base, including riders, drivers and vaulters.

‘Not that it isn’t already good,’ Sue Adams-Wheeler hastens to say. ‘We’ve done a really good job for ever,’ she adds. ‘It’s just that we’ve suffered a bit of a misconception – just as the WI suffered from the ‘Jam and Jerusalem’ idea, at the RDA there’s been this idea that all we do is take children and adults on pony rides, give them a nice time in the sunshine, and then we all have a nice cup of tea, and feel a little bit better. We’re changing that, one country at a time.’

Sue is both the RDA International Liaison Officer, and RDA Chairman of Coaching; she is passionate about introducing the professional standard of RDA coaching to groups worldwide. It combines a tailored programme of equestrian knowledge with an in-depth understanding of a wide range of disabilities, to create professional, effective coaches.

‘I’m very lucky because I work internationally to really try to up the coaching standards,’ Sue says. ‘And it’s done with masses of help from other people – this is not a one-man journey, and I’m just part of the team. We’re doing a really good job and getting really good results.’

Sue’s involvement with RDA UK began more than 35 years ago, and she has been the RDA International Liaison Officer since 2005.

‘Basically, I’ve grabbed and run with the ball,’ she adds. ‘Over time, we’ve seen increased self-esteem in people doing the job. It’s got a lot to do with the changing perception of coaches from just being people who say ‘there, there’ and give a pat on the head, to being regarded as fellow professionals in the horse world.’

RDA UK coaching is at world-class level; all coaches have portfolios and log books, and are continually assessed and kept up to date. The UK Coaching Certificate has become the de facto standard for coaching in many sports, and is increasing in popularity and up-take across the sporting world.

Sue adds that the coaches are provided with the necessary tool kit to do a good job – she owns to being immensely proud of the professional standards attained by the coaches.

RDA WORLDWIDE ‘I have wanderlust,’ states Sue. ‘I’ve never grown out of the travel bug, so my international thing is really vitally important to me – and the more remote and ‘difficult’, the more I love it.’

It’s just as well that Sue loves travel, as the RDA coaching programme takes her all over the world, beginning with Russia, more than ten years ago. With the assistance of Charity Aid Foundation, she made several visits each year, always with the goal of find a way to get three disabled riders qualified to go to the 2000 Paralympics in Australia.

The programme now encompasses Hong Kong, East Malaysia, Penang, Singapore, Dubai, Bosnia, Romania, and Transylvania – with Lithuania a new entrant to the RDA coaching concept.

‘Nobody had been doing anything like it over there,’ explains Sue. She explains that under the previous communist regime (until 1990), disabled people weren’t recognised as such: ‘…and you can’t offer a service to people who don’t exist.’

While the programme is still in the early stages in Lithuania,

rda.org.uk

taking small steps, Sue says the big rewards are there from the beginning, such as seeing the huge grin on the face of a child with Downs Syndrome, as she rides on the back of a horse for the first time.

After a brief visit earlier in 2015, Sue is confident of the possibilities: ‘As it’s so new, we’re really just showing people what RDA does. In 2016, they’ll come over to the UK, look at the centers, meet people, see what we do, and how they could start the programme in Lithuania.’

THOUSAND MOVEMENTS In contrast to many Western countries, the idea of using horses for therapy is new in some East Asian countries.

For example, Sue notes that in northeast Malaysia, the Thai ponies were used solely for work. ‘They simply hadn’t thought about using ponies as therapy for people,’ she says. ‘By working with physiotherapists to show how the movement of a pony promotes movement in the rider, we can help introduce the idea of riding therapy. They just need to know how to use it because they’ve already got the horses and ponies.’

The movement of the horse is the same as the movement of normal human walking – and produces 1,000 movements in three dimensions in 10 minutes. It is this action that creates an active response in the rider, just to stay in balance. That response stimulates the activity of the muscles used in walking.

‘We’re not suggesting intervention therapy such as a physiotherapist would do, just riding that might help someone with movement. In Kuala Lumpur, where there are expatriates from Australia, UK, and Ireland, the polo ponies are used for rides; they’re well behaved and calm. But in NE Malaysia, they don’t use horses for fun. So I help them to take the children out of orphanages, and give them exercise, and teach the girls working with them how to use the horse. It is such a lovely experience – RDA is for anyone aren’t I lucky?’

BIG CHALLENGES As might be obvious by now, Sue believes in big challenges, with one of the biggest being to change the erroneous misconception that RDA is only for people with obvious physical disabilities.

‘RDA is for anyone with any disability. And, apart from maybe top athletes, who doesn’t have something wrong

with any disability.

And, apart from maybe top athletes, who doesn’t have something wrong with them? Most of us have a disability of some sort – bad eyes, or ears or whatever… we’ve all got something that’s not perfect.

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International coaching

with them?’ she asks. ‘Most of us have a disability of some sort – bad eyes, or ears or whatever… we’ve all got something that’s not perfect.’

She adds that, from a coaching viewpoint, it’s challenging sometimes to help people understand that youngsters with a disability need to be given the opportunity to make choices.

‘In Ireland, for example, the helpers were a little nervous – as they are all over the world – and I helped them to understand enough to realise they didn’t have to lead the rider anymore, they could let him off the lead rein, and decide for himself whether to go right or left at the end of the arena, and decide what color block to turn by. And that’s the magic right there – when people see that youngsters with a learning disability, who thought they couldn’t do anything, are given the opportunity to make a choice. Those things give me enormous pleasure.’

She adds: ‘Sometimes, the most rewarding thing is to take on a big challenge and wonder how it’s going to work – and then it does.’

PROFESSIONAL NECESSITY Working internationally with so many diverse and regionally separated groups has reinforced Sue’s belief that coaching has to be at the highest possible professional level.

‘When you coach people, you may start to uncover all sorts of different layers,’ she says. ‘So, it’s critical that the RDA coach can recognise various situations, and be able to turn to other professionals for backup and help them deal with possible problems.

RDA has had great success with anorexic girls, for instance.’

And sometimes, it takes a professional to admit when it just won’t work, at least not every time. Sue relates when teenagers who had been in trouble with the law came for riding therapy: ‘The boys reacted positively on both a practical level, benefiting from the physical exercise as much as the coaching; however, it was complete disaster with the girls, who just didn’t want to be bothered about anything, and were certainly not motivated by horses!’

WORLD LEADERS Of course, alongside the practical aspects of travel and introducing professional RDA-level coaching standard across the world, there is the more technical side of conferences and professional associations.

For example, Sue is involved with HETI, which is involved with work worldwide with people with and without specific disabilities. ACPTR, FCRT, GUL and RDA are the four UK Full Members of HETI, the Federation of Horses in Education and Therapy International. The forums offer opportunities for sharing experiences and expertise.

In addition, an International Congress of Therapeutic Riding is held every three years, with the XVIth International Congress in Dublin, Ireland in 2018.

‘We are very involved with HETI,’ says Sue. ‘And we also meet through GUL, and EFETA in Ireland. It’s the professional side of presenting papers and theory. At the most recent congress, RDA UK members (such as Sheila Saner, Lynne Munro and Diane Williams) all presented papers.

‘RDA UK is definitely among the world leaders in this area. And that’s due in no small part to the ongoing efforts of the wonderful team of people I get to work with.

Bringing the concept of RDA coaching to riding groups across the world simply wouldn’t happen without them!’

IN 2014, SUE WAS AWARDED AN RDA HONORARY LIFE VICE-PRESIDENCY IN RECOGNITION OF HER OUTSTANDING SUPPORT OF THE CHARITY.

PICTURES CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: SUE ADAMS-WHEELER WITH THE GROUP IN PENANG • SUE ADAMS-WHEELER WITH RDA PRESIDENT HRH THE PRINCESS ROYAL • TRANSYLVANIA • COACHING IN HONG KONG • PRESENTERS AT THE ASIA CONFERENCE

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When you coach people, you may start to uncover all sorts of different layers... So, it’s critical that the RDA coach can recognise various situations, and be able to turn to other professionals for backup.

rda.org.uk

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RDA Outcomes Tracker

What

GOOD Looks Like Moving minds with measurable statistics, and hearts with observations: the RDA Outcomes Tracker not only offers potential for great research, it also helps people realise there’s no need to live within a world of limitations because of disability.

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RDA Outcomes Tracker RESULTS AFTER RIDING

COMMUNICATION

ANECDOTAL EVIDENCE has always

E ID

EN

ES NG HA

JO YM

EN T

E NC

C AL SIC P HY

related the physical and psychological benefits resulting from the RDA programmes; until recently, research evidence was rare. A new tool for independent evaluation could discover what was done well and where, and how it could be improved.

Based on discussion with therapeutic experts, it was determined such an evaluation tool had to be easily used by coaches and other RDA volunteers, while also readily understood by riders, parents, carers and teachers.

In 2013, RDA introduced the Outcomes Tracker to evaluate therapeutic outcomes of riding with RDA. Designed to capture a ‘snapshot’ of change, it uses a scoring framework superimposed on a banded riding rosette.

The Outcomes Tracker piloted with 57 children who attend RDA via their schools.

Two assessors (for objectivity and consistency) RELATIONSHIPS scored in six areas: communication, confidence, enjoyment, relationships, physical changes, and horsemanship.

Charting the scores on the rosette framework produces an irregular outline similar to a spider’s web. Comparing the ‘beginning’ outline with the ‘end’ outline shows the amount of change during the period of riding.

Asked about the pilot’s results, Denise Robertson, RDA Head of Therapy, says, ‘If I’d invented the scores, I wouldn’t have dared invent ones as positive as the results we got!’

The initial pilot showed that 80% of riders experienced physical improvement; 90% demonstrated growing confidence and enjoyment; and, 82% demonstrated improved communication skills.

In 2013, Tracker (improved with feedback from coaches and other stakeholders) launched as the first RDA Therapeutic Outcomes Sample Survey. Scores gathered from 26 RDA groups and 181 riders over 12 weeks – and analysed by independent statistician Rowland Marden, of RM Insight – indicated that 80% showed physical improvements, greater confidence and more enjoyment; 75% showed greater willingness and ability to communicate; 82% showed improved relationship building skills; and, 83% showed clear advances in horsemanship. The age and disability of the rider was not a predictor of achievement.

The latest Tracker survey, of 299 children in the autumn term of 2014, again showed statistically significant improvement in all six assessed areas.

NF

HO RS E

RESULTS BEFORE RIDING

CO

MA NS HI

P

CAPTURING A ‘SNAPSHOT’ OF CHANGE WITH A SCORING FRAMEWORK SUPERIMPOSED ON A COLOURFUL, BANDED RIDING ROSETTE.

DOING WHAT YOU CAN DO Conceived as part of the wider project ‘Therapy through Horses’, the Outcomes Tracker criteria focus on observable changes, including hard (horsemanship and physical changes) and soft (communication and enjoyment) outcomes.

As Denise explains: ‘A physiotherapist can measure increased degrees of flexibility in a joint using a particular instrument, and the Tracker isn’t

15

RDA Outcomes Tracker

intended to supplant that kind of technical evaluation, rather to complement it.

‘It would take an enormous resource, more therapists, and time, to technically evaluate all 28,000 riders and drivers that we work with. It’s about doing what you can do. And physiotherapists are using Tracker alongside their professional evaluations.’

‘Everything we do is, first and foremost, for the rider’s benefit.

The Outcomes Tracker gives us insights, helps set goals and track rider progress; people achieve more when supported in reaching a goal. We share insights with teachers and parents, allowing them to build on good changes outside the RDA sessions.’

Dom Chambers, Tracker Manager, adds that the visual impact of the rosette is vital: ‘As the parent of a child with severe learning difficulties, I’ve realised that graphs and text can be confusing; the Tracker rosette clearly shows the child’s journey, and the benefits.

It’s more than the child saying he enjoys riding, as the rosette also tracks confidence and communication. It’s a strong tool for parents.’

Denise added: ‘The Tracker’s development was based on keeping the rider at the centre of things, and enabling rider engagement and participation. It also creates reflective practitioners, promotes organisational needs, and fosters a professional culture that views evaluation as standard.’

GROUP FOCUS IN 2016

By June 2015, almost 40 RDA Groups had participated in the autumn term Tracker surveys. It had also been used with school groups, individual adults and children, and vaulters (gymnasts on horseback). Dom and Denise explored how to make the Outcomes Tracker easier to use and more attractive to local Groups.

The revamped Tracker offers basic computing functions, including dedicated Group reports, specific school reports, and reports for the UK. RDA National keeps the results, and Groups can access their own reports. The new system offers both general and enhanced reporting Additionally, using a secure system, Groups and other users have forums to communicate and share best practice; Dom recalls a Group that considered how to create a sensory room, and then found another group had created one out of a tack room.

Toolkits will also provide guidance on grant applications, and marketing, while report templates will help Groups present their results to greatest advantage. IT is balanced with practical applications: the Outcomes Tracker app may offer two options – the electronic app, or an A5 pre-printed paper pad.

Dom adds: ‘We always want to make things as easy as possible, so that Groups can see the benefits.’

The redeveloped Outcomes Tracker launched in midDecember 2015, with workshops across the country, and more than 50 groups pre-registered. RDA associated members in other countries, as well as other organisations offering therapeutic riding, are showing an interest in Outcomes Tracker.

MOVING HEARTS AND MINDS Outcomes Tracker helps coaches and volunteers become more observant and engaged with individual riders.

‘The Outcomes Tracker educates you about what good looks like,’ explains Denise. ‘For example, when you’re thinking about

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communication skills, the Tracker identifies clear observable signs of progression.’

‘We’ve proven the benefits for RDA riders.

The higher numbers of individuals in our It’s not been surveys in Groups across an easy road. the UK suggest we can be confident the People initially improvements we see are didn’t believe delivered during RDA sessions.’ it was possible ‘The Outcomes to evaluate Tracker helps us find out progression what we’re doing well, and where there’s room because we for improvement. It’s work with a potentially very rich research seam.’ people with ‘The Tracker also all kinds of collects qualitative evidence from teachers, difficulties, and riders and parents. One no one starts parent commented that from the same when they play with their little boy, dad has to get on place… we had all fours to be the horse… to persuade it just paints a picture that makes you smile and people to take touches your heart. It that leap of faith shows, for that little boy, and use the that having fun necessarily includes riding a horse.’

Tracker chiefly And there is a financial for the benefit of benefit to using the Tracker.

As Denise RDA as a whole explains: ‘When you can evidence the effectiveness of your activities, it is much easier to persuade potential donors that RDA represents a good investment.’

‘It’s not been an easy road. People initially didn’t believe it was possible to evaluate progression because we work with people with all kinds of difficulties, and no one starts from the same place… we had to persuade people to take that leap of faith and use the Tracker chiefly for the benefit of RDA as a whole. Even Groups who don’t yet use the Tracker have been able to use the UK results to attract funds.’

Denise concludes: ‘When you’re describing the impact of your work to people, you have to move their minds – and you can do that with statistics – but you have to move their hearts as well.

You hear a little boy saying he really likes doing hard things – and what he’s really saying is he wants to be challenged. It’s important for parents and coaches to hear that, and realise that you don’t necessarily have to live within a world of limitations just because someone has a disability.’

rda.org.uk

RDA Outcomes Tracker

Coaching Tip FIND OUT HOW THE RDA OUTCOMES TRACKER CAN BENEFIT YOUR GROUP. CONTACT DOM CHAMBERS, RDA TRACKER MANAGER ON 01926 492915 OR DCHAMBERS@RDA.ORG.UK

THE TRACKER IS NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE!

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Interview: Clare Balding

Not just for

Posh People

Clare Balding takes time from her busy schedule to talk about her first experiences with RDA, the joy of riding – and a retired eventer called Chester.

Seeing kids that were saying things like ‘I feel like I’m flying’, and children with restricted movement being given unlimited movement because they were on a pony.

That was a key moment for me in realising how important and valuable RDA is.

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WHEN DID YOU FIRST KNOW ABOUT RDA? I can’t remember not knowing! From very early on, I was aware of RDA because there was a very good local group in the Hampshire/Berkshire area where I grew up, ran by Mrs. McGill.

Then, when I did my first Paralympic Games, which was Sydney 2000, I got to know about the elite level and the pathway for RDA riders.

After the Sydney Games, I started becoming involved as an active supporter.

WHY IS RDA A CHARITY THAT YOU LIKE TO SUPPORT? The combination of a horse-based charity that connects with people with disabilities makes sense on two levels for me. I remember going to an event locally in Bucklebury – one that Mrs. McGill would have organised – and seeing the volunteers, and ponies, and children, and everyone just being so happy.

I loved that.

And seeing kids that were saying things like ‘I feel like I’m flying’, and children with restricted movement being given unlimited movement because they were on a pony.

That was a key moment for me in realising how important and valuable RDA is.

Having been a child that dreamed of representing Great Britain at an Olympic Games, I understand how important it is to have a dream that is really big. If you know that – with the right training and dedication – that dream is not ruled out for you, and that you could go to the Paralympics. I think that is crucial.

WHAT DO YOU THINK RDA DOES WELL? I think you are able to reach a huge range of people who wouldn’t otherwise normally be exposed to horses and ponies.

I know from meeting people up in Carlisle, or at the National Championships, or just from what I’ve seen out and about, that it’s something you should never underestimate. I think The Pony Club has got quite a lot to learn from RDA from that point of view.

And there’s no age restriction as well.

So take someone like Anne Dunham, who competed at five Paralympic Games, despite the fact that her doctors said she couldn’t and shouldn’t ride. (She

Interview: Clare Balding

The benefits of having a relationship with a living animal, that doesn’t judge you, that will respond to the best of your nature. If you are patient and kind and consistent it will reward you for that. I’d like people to understand the impact horses can have. always thought it helped her, actually.) Anne might have been a horsey person anyway, but there are loads that aren’t. And I really like that. I think it helps break down the natural prejudice against equestrian sports. People think it’s just for posh people and it’s not.

ARE THERE THINGS YOU WOULD LIKE US TO DO BETTER? I have always said there are lots of developments you could make in terms of social media and technology.

I was at a Health Awards recently, and they had technology awards where people had invented apps and technologies for patients, and there are lots of hospitals having innovative ideas. With any charity, I think that innovation and technology should always be able to spread the net more widely.

The thing is with ponies and horses, there’s only so much you can expect one pony to do, but technology can help extend the experience away from the stables.

Things like stable management and all sorts of learning can be shared online. And you can use film as well ­– both for education, and to help people feel much closer to the individuals involved.

DO YOU HAVE A ‘STAND OUT’ RDA MOMENT? I really enjoyed my first visit to Hartpury. I didn’t realise until then how big it was, and how many different classes there were, and how many people were involved, and how much those Championships matter. That was great.

rda.org.uk

I also like the awards and the people I have met through that. The ‘Horse or Pony of the Year’ award – I love that. You know you will have the chance to meet someone who will talk for hours about their horse!

DO YOU RIDE MUCH THESE DAYS, AND IS THERE A SPECIAL HORSE IN YOUR LIFE? My sister-in-law and I are about to take on a retired eventer, so that we can ride more regularly.

He’s called Chester. He’s gorgeous and he’s a real old gent. The pony I loved more than any other was called Frank. And he gets a whole chapter in my book.

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE THE PUBLIC TO KNOW ABOUT RDA? I think I’d like them to understand what RDA does – it’s breadth.

The benefits of having a relationship with a living animal, that doesn’t judge you, that will respond to the best of your nature.

If you are patient and kind and consistent it will reward you for that. I’d like people to understand the impact horses can have.

And people might think that it’s not a necessity to ride – there are lots of other things that are essential for everyday living. But riding is a joy, physical exercise, and an escape, too. And I think that’s really important.

WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO IN 2016?

I’m very excited to be working on another Olympics and Paralympics.

I’m interested to see how Rio follows up on what London did.

Particularly with the Paralympic Games, because that was a big step forward for the Paralympic movement. I’m pleased and excited that American television finally seems to be taking a bit of notice.

So that’s good.

I’ll try both for the BBC at the Olympics and Channel 4 for the Paralympics, to ‘bring it home’ as they say. To make people feel that they are at the event and share the excitement and drama.

I do think Great Britain will get behind the Rio Paralympics.

The popularity of sport relies on an awareness and emotional attachment to the athletes involved.

The Paralympics starts from a very strong position because a lot of the athletes competing in Rio were also at London 2012. In 2016, the competition will be stronger and the training has improved, so it will be even more exciting.

Our Para-Dressage team will be under huge pressure, but they have still got it. Riders like Sophie Christiansen continue to improve and they certainly seem to have got more competition for places. The pool has widened and deepened since Sydney.

th... ou m s ’ e s or h e h t From E’S FIRST THOR, CLAR U A G IN L L E YEAR AT A BESTS PHY OF THE A R G IO B N 2012. HER BOOK WO K AWARDS O O B L A N AS THE NATIO G HOME’ W OK, ‘WALKIN O B D N O C E S IN 2014.

PUBLISHED

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Horse Welfare

NO HOOF

No HORSE ABOUT NATHALIE: NATHALIE COLE BSC (HONS) BVSC MRCVS IS AN EQUINE VET BASED AT THE LIPHOOK EQUINE HOSPITAL IN HAMPSHIRE. AS WELL AS BEING THE RDA NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS VET, SHE ALSO HAS EXPERIENCE WORKING AT FEI EVENTS, AND IS WORKING TOWARDS AN ADVANCED CERTIFICATE IN EQUINE MEDICINE.

All horses need and deserve healthy feet, and problem prevention is better than problem treatment. In this article, Nathalie Cole, RDA National Championships Vet, offers healthy hoof advice.

Foot abscesses, also known as ‘pus in the foot’, are common causes of acute (sudden onset) lameness in horses. While this problem can be seen throughout the year, the wet, muddy conditions commonly encountered in winter can soften hooves and make it easier for them to become damaged, allowing bacteria to enter the sensitive tissues underneath. The resulting infection causes swelling of these tissues, and pus to build up within the foot. As the horse’s hoof is a rigid structure, this swelling causes rising pressure within the foot, causing significant pain.

SPOT THE SIGNS Lameness is the most common sign in a horse with a foot abscess. This will usually have a rapid onset (over 24 hours), and can sometimes be as severe as the lameness seen with a broken bone. Horses may be reluctant to bear weight on the affected leg, and may show additional signs of pain such as an increased breathing rate or sweating. Other signs that may be noted are increased heat, and a raised digital pulse indicating inflammation in the affected foot, and a thorough examination of the rest of the affected limb is often unremarkable.

When a foot abscess is diagnosed, treatment involves locating the abscess and encouraging it to drain. Your vet may use hoof testers to find where the pain is most severe, and will pare your horse’s foot to locate the weak point where infection has entered. Once found, the tract can be opened to release pressure and allow the pus to drain. Wet poulticing softens the hoof tissues, allowing the pus to continue to drain, and in some cases may be required between parings to finally

Lameness is the most common sign seen in a horse with a foot abscess. This will usually have a rapid onset (over 24 hours), and can sometimes be as severe as the lameness seen with a broken bone.

locate the abscess. Your vet can also provide pain relief such as ‘bute’ and, in very painful cases, sedation and local anaesthetic can be used to keep the horse comfortable while locating the abscess or performing further investigations such as radiographs (X-rays).

In many cases, the abscess can be easily located and drained.

Lameness improves rapidly and the infection will resolve completely following a few days of poulticing.

However, some other foot conditions may present with similar signs, or as a recurring or poorly healing foot abscess.

PEDAL BONE FRACTURE This injury is often caused by a significant trauma to the foot, such as kicking a wall. Horses with this condition will often have a sudden-onset lameness that can be severe, and an increased digital pulse may be felt. Diagnosis is confirmed by foot radiographs, and treatment involves a period of box rest and the use of a foot cast or special shoes to immobilise the fracture.

KERATOMA This is a benign tumour of the cells of the hoof wall. Signs range from lowlevel lameness through to foot abscesses and, in some cases, a visible bulge in the hoof wall. Diagnosis can be made using radiographs, although some cases may require more advance imaging such as an MRI scan. Fortunately, while these tumours do not spread around the body, surgery is required to remove them and resolve the problem.

SOLAR PENETRATION Injuries caused to the foot by a foreign object such as a nail can potentially be serious, and many cases will have similar symptoms to a foot abscess. Important structures such as the pedal bone and coffin joint are found just under the surface of the foot, and infection within these structures requires rapid identification and treatment to ensure a full recovery. Removing the item may not always be appropriate, so always call your vet for advice.

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Xxxx Welfare Horse

Top Tips To Ensure A HEALTHY HOOF SPOT THE FRACTURE

Keep feet as clean and dry as possible, for example by stabling your horse for part or all of the day if your grazing becomes very muddy.

Pick out and check your horse’s feet at least once a day. Watch out for abnormalities such as cracks, softening of the foot, unpleasant smells, injuries or foreign bodies.

Even if your horse is not shod or in work over the winter, his feet should still be regularly assessed and/ or trimmed by your farrier.

Keep poultice materials in your equine first aid kit. These can be used to treat abscesses once they have been diagnosed, or to keep an injured foot clean and dry while your vet is on the way.

Foot abscesses can provide an entry point for bacteria that cause tetanus, a disease that is nearly always fatal.

Make sure your horse’s vaccinations are up to date.

THE FRACTURES ARE THE GREY LINES TOWARDS THE MIDDLE (NOT THE ONES AROUND THE HOOF). YOU CAN SEE THE BIGGEST ONE GOES QUITE FAR ALONG. PHOTO CREDIT: THE LIPHOOK EQUINE HOSPITAL AND JAMIE PRUTTON MRCVS.

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If your horse goes lame, or you are concerned about something you find when checking your horse’s feet, speak with your vet. As well as treatment, the vet will be happy to provide advice and can help look for an underlying cause in horses with recurrent problems.

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For more information visit

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If you’re reading this then so are your potential customers. With RDA Magazine’s re-launch came a whole range of new advertising opportunities, which can help you promote and accelerate your business in 2016.

All of the profit we make on advertising goes directly back into the RDA, meaning that when you advertise your business, you not only benefit your company, but also the 48,000 service-users and organisers that form the larger RDA Community.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON HOW TO RESERVE YOUR SPACE IN THE NEXT ISSUE OF RDA MAGAZINE CONTACT ANDY ETHERTON:

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(O1536) 527297 andy@matrixprint.com

Photo competition

Enjoyable

Achievements This year’s photographic competition entries were stunning. Overall competition winner ‘Boom!’ by Charles Milner reflects the true spirit of achievement and teamwork at RDA UK.

‘Boom!’ BY CHARLES MILNER

(CATEGORY WINNER: PEOPLE POWER )

School Days BY ANNE MITCHELL

(CATEGORY WINNER: SCHOOL DAYS )

Photo competition

‘THIS PICTURE PERFECTLY CAPTURES THE ENJOYMENT AND SENSE OF ACHIEVEMENT FELT BY ALL ON THAT DAY, AND IS A VISUAL REPRESENTATION OF WHAT RDA IS ALL ABOUT.’ That’s Leatherhead RDA trustee Sally Milner talking about the winning subject of the 2015 RDA Annual Photography competition.

‘Boom!’ shows Charles Milner’s action shot of rider Cian Friend on the RDA pony Toffee. Charles perfectly captured the moment when Cian’s arms were raised in celebration after achieving success at the RDA South East Region Challenge Day. The Challenge Day is an annual highlight for the Leatherhead Group riders and volunteers.

Charles is also from Leatherhead RDA in Surrey; his photograph was awarded first in the People Power category, then went on to be voted overall winner.

Ed Bracher, Chief Executive of RDA UK added his congratulations to Charles and everyone at Leatherhead RDA, adding: ‘This is a great photograph that really shows the spirit of achievement and teamwork at the Group.’

Other category winners included Anne Mitchell, of Barrow Farm RDA, who won in both the Horse Proud and School Days categories, and Barry Knight, of Cobbes Meadow RDA, who won in the Going for a Drive category.

The competition was supported by players of People’s Postcode lottery, with staff voting on the overall winner.

Going For A Drive BY BARRY KNIGHT

(CATEGORY WINNER: GOING FOR A DRIVE )

Other winners included: People Power

SECOND PLACE: CHARLES MILNER THIRD PLACE: REBEKAH MORGAN

Horse Proud

BY ANNE MITCHELL (CATEGORY WINNER: HORSE PROUD )

School Days

SECOND PLACE: HAZEL TURNER THIRD PLACE: MARGARET BENTLEY

Horse Proud

SECOND PLACE: BECKY PAGET THIRD PLACE: ANNE MITCHELL HIGHLY COMMENDED: CHARLOTTE DITCHBURN

Going For A Drive

SECOND PLACE: HAZEL TURNER THIRD PLACE: JULIA CAXTON

TO SEE THE FULL GALLERY OF OUR FANTASTIC SUBMISSIONS VISIT FLICKR. COM/PHOTOS/132153654@N05/ SETS/72157658671149424

Xxxx Regional reports

Regional Roundup The very latest news and events from RDA groups around the UK.

EAST At the Cambs College Group’s award evening at Weston Colville Hall, the Deputy Lieutenant, James Buxton, presented the East Region Volunteer of the Year award to Kirsty Jones, who made a difference to the group in one year with her connections with Cambridge University.

Long-term service awards of 10 years were presented to Gillian Newsum, Kathryn McGennity and Lulu Boscawen. Eleven riders were presented with certificates for passing their proficiency tests, some up to Grade 4.

It was a happy evening. And, after 10 years, Gay Redman handed over group chairman’s responsibilities to Gillian Newsum.

Barrow Farm celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2016. Planned celebrations include an Open Day in May, a barn dance in June, and the 40th anniversary dinner dance in October. Its aim is to raise £40,000 for our 40th year. People can help to fundraise by making a donation/sponsor a pony instead of giving a present, holding a coffee morning or sponsored event, or providing an auction prize for the dinner dance. Any fundraising activity can be promoted on the group’s ‘Just Giving’ page.

Barrow Farm had great success at the RDA National Championships, with riders Lucy Hogan, Claire Humphrey and Emma Harris all improving their places from 2014. Lucy received first place in her partially-visionally impaired class, Claire was placed second in the Grade 1a dressage, Emma was placed third in the freestyle dressage, and William Swire was presented with a second place medal for his success in Dressage Anywhere.

A warm welcome to two new boys, Jaybe and Boyce. They are currently undergoing training and we hope they will be ready to join some rides in the new year. Thanks to The Worshipful Company of Pipe Makers, and Romford Post Office Carers, for money to pay for Jaybe. Boyce is on a six-month loan to see how well he fits in. The group has welcomed three new trustees who bring a variety of skills: Frank Tew, as new treasurer; Margaret Cameron, just retired as head of Ravensbourn school; and Andrea Jessop, a rider’s parent.

Gay Redman, Regional Chairman

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EDINBURGH AND BORDERS ‘Inspiration and Progression’ was the theme of the RDA Scottish Supra Conference in October, hosted by Edinburgh and Borders Region.

Morning workshops highlighted the benefits of using the horse as therapy, with participants expressing their profound gratitude to RDA for giving their whole family ‘a bigger life’.

The afternoon highlighted the scope of RDA. Riders demonstrated just how much is possible, and included vaulting, endurance, dressage and show jumping. At least seventy years separated the oldest and youngest taking part! The Forth Driving Group concluded the displays, with a celebration of 40 years of RDA driving to the enthusiastic audience of 350 delegates.

The Princess Royal presented long service awards to Dorothy Wilson and Angela Stocks for their invaluable service to Glenfarg group, and to West & Central Scotland region, and Sophie Hamilton received an ‘Over & Above’ award for her exceptional work for Gareloch group.

The Glasgow group would like to offer huge congratulations to Gavin Read and Gary Watson, who were announced as West and Central Scotland regional volunteers of the year. Impossible to separate into individual nominations, they were entered as a team, and their response was typically modest: ‘We don’t do it to be thanked!’

Lynda Whittaker, Regional Chairman

Regional reports Xxxx

BALLYWARD GROUP ON THEIR DRIVE OUT AT CASTLE WARD.

NORTHERN IRELAND 2015 has been a great year for RDA Northern Ireland. Coleraine group celebrated 40 years of service to the local community with a weekend-long festival, and is already looking ahead to the next 40!

It was a successful year at the National Championships in June where, as well as a haul of riding rosettes, Ballyward group entered its first championships, sending DVDs of driving to music for consideration by the judges, winning a first, second and two fourth place rosettes. Omagh group sent a banner to the Arts and Crafts competition, and won that section, too! It was wonderful for riders and drivers who could not travel to the event to be able to enter the competition and achieve such success.

To have your group Omagh group also received the Loriners’ Educational Activity Award, presented by the Worshipful Company of Loriners in the City of London. This is a national competition that appear in the next saw Omagh come top of the 486 groups across the UK – congratulations to all involved! edition of RDA Ballyward group is Northern Ireland’s only dedicated driving group, and enjoyed its first Magazine, send Drive Out at Castle Ward, a National Trust property on the shores of Strangford Lough.

They had ‘beautiful weather and the spectacular setting ensured everyone had a great day!’ your stories to Claire Walker was voted RDANI’s Volunteer of the Year. Claire volunteers weekly with East ffion@rda.org.uk Antrim, and holds a post as county coach, as well as organising the regional championships, the ‘Endurance’ events, and this year’s fundraising triathlon. Without people like Claire, RDANI and groups across the UK would not be able to function and could not offer the help and support to our riders and drivers. ‘Well done’ to Claire and ‘thank you’ to all of our volunteers!

ROUND UP ROUND UP

Juliet Frazer, Regional Chairman

rda.org.uk

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Regional reports

GREATER LONDON Penniwells RDA’s busy year included successful fundraising events, including when 23 riders, volunteers and supporters raised nearly £8,000 by abseiling 100ft down St. Mary’s Church tower, Watford.

At the National Championships, 23 riders and six ponies competed, and all placed well.

Penniwells hosted the Regional Driving conference, and the RDA Dressage Judges training day, with riders attending from Penniwells, Chigwell and Oaklands. Well done to: Sarah Healing on passing her RDA Senior Coaching Exam; Sam Peck on passing the RDA Coaching Exam; Rebecca Brown as the first rider at Penniwells to achieve the Silver Award; and Prince, who won the National RDA Horse of The Year 2015. He is a very special horse, with 20 years service to RDA. Thank you, Prince!

Park Lane Stables, Teddington now has a wonderful team physiotherapist in Julie Knox. She comes every Sunday afternoon, and the riders are benefiting hugely from her input. Julie is training to deliver hippotherapy, so the group will offer this in the future.

Sadly, Park Lane Stables’ RDA pony died of colic in September. Everyone was devastated, and the group had a funeral at a local church to remember him.

In better news, the group received funding for a shiny new huge mounting block, thanks to a grant from RDA UK. The block has made life so much easier for the group’s riders, horses and team members.

The group is growing steadily and is very proud to be part of the RDA. They enjoyed a visit from Hyde Park RDA group, and plan to go and visit them soon. The group would love to share ideas with other groups and welcome feedback from those with more experience.

Vauxhall City Farm group had a visit from The Princess Royal in October to officially open its new stables, built with funding from Sport England. The Princess, along with the group’s funders and local supporters, was treated to a display by riders. The riders were very excited to be meeting a real princess, and delighted with their rosettes. The group now has space for 11 horses on site, allowing them to offer even more lessons to those living in the London boroughs.

Heathrow Special Needs Centre rides four days a week and has a waiting list for lessons, as this is a very popular activity. The group has a new horse on loan since last June

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– an ex-polo pony called Gorda. The Christmas Party was in December, where certificates were presented to the most improved riders.

In 2016, the group hopes to increase its number of riding days.

Bexley group’s young riders are making good progress.

The group has had great success with its very young children from a special school who really benefit from their weekly lessons, with some of them walking for the first time.

Bexley group’s young riders are making good progress.

The group has had great success with its very young children from a special school who really benefit from their weekly lessons, with some of them walking for the first time. Thanks are due to Anita Claridge, and Mary Mannion, who are responsible for those classes.

Bexley took advantage of the pony days at Arrow Centre over the summer holidays, and four riders really enjoyed themselves, becoming more confident around the ponies as they had to groom and tack up, something not always possible during their normal lessons.

Thanks to the Arrow, and also congratulations to Val Blake who worked hard to get the whole of the stable yard reconcreted.

We have very sadly to report the death in July of Marjorie Gray, one of the group’s volunteers who gave 25 years to Bexley RDA. A slight lady, she had more energy than a lot of us, grooming the ponies for her class and nearly hidden behind heavy saddles as she tacked up. She received her 25-year certificate from the Princess Royal before she became too ill to carry on, and she was very proud of her photograph with the Princess. There is now a wonderful bench in memory of Marjorie, and also of Doris Hanigan, another long-term volunteer at the Arrow who recently passed away.

Diane Jeffries, Regional Chairman RIGHT: THE PRINCESS ROYAL AT VAUXHALL CITY FARM.

Regional reports

rda.org.uk

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Regional reports

WEST AND CENTRAL SCOTLAND

ABOVE LEFT TO RIGHT: INSIDE THE DOUBLE STAND • JOANNE LINSKEY, HIGHLAND GROUP • LAUREN DEMPSEY, GLASGOW GROUP

At the Blair International Horse Trials in September, we took a double stand as it was the FEI European Eventing Championships. It was a fantastic five days, with the weather being reasonably kind except for the torrential rain on Saturday. We had a very successful tombola for both children and adults to complement our new RDA goods and Christmas cards.

There was a whisky draw every day, kindly donated by Glengoyne distillery; it proved very popular. The overall takings were up by £800 on last year, so a great boost to our regional funds.

Five of our groups sent volunteers to help man the stand, alongside the regional committee, to answer enquiries and chat to the public who came to admire our stand and find out what we do. The displays were a great success, making it so much easier to explain to people ‘how RDA works!’, and how they could volunteer.

There was no doubt about the camaraderie and support from all our visitors. Gillie Drapper, publicity officer

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for the West and Central Scotland region, said: ‘Thank you to all of you who helped us to represent the RDA in Scotland! We will be back next year, so come and find us on our pitch at the main arena from 25 – 28 August, 2016.

We really appreciate all your support!’

On a most beautiful sunny day, 25 riders from the Highlands, the Borders, Ayrshire, Glasgow, Central and Argyll & Bute arrived at the beautiful Glasgow RDA centre to take part in the Scottish Dressage Competition. The judges, Mrs. Beattie and Mrs. Young, presided over 25 classes that included championship tests in walk, walk and trot, and walk, trot and canter and rides to music, as well as non-championship tests in walk, and walk and trot. There was something for everyone.

With the laughter and camaraderie, there was also a palpable determination to do well, and all the riders certainly rose to the occasion. Kate Bennet, the Regional Chairman, was

delighted to hand out well-earned rosettes and awards to all the riders who worked so hard. Families and friends also revelled in their success.

Thanks must go to the team who organised and supported the competition, everyone who supported, trained and transported the riders and, of course, the riders and their horses for wonderful displays of dressage riding.

The Scottish dressage competition is growing in strength, and we look forward to seeing more groups coming along and having a go.

Organiser Nancy Peters said: ‘A great thank you to all the competitors, instructors and helpers for taking part, and I hope you enjoyed your day!

Thanks also due to all the sponsors, judges, stewards, writers, scorers, first aiders and general ‘dogsbodies’ without whom the event would not happen, and the biggest thanks to the Board of RDA Sandyflat, together with Lynne and her staff for hosting the championships.’

Kate Bennet, Regional Chairman

Regional reports

In a star-studded night of celebration, the third RDA Gala Awards recognised the achievements and dedication of riders, volunteers, horses and more.

Clare Balding hosted the evening, accompanied by Alastair Stewart, Natasha Baker, Anneka Rice, Scott Quinnell and Jonathan Agnew. The Awards were at Lords Cricket ground in September.

Our regional chairman, Kate Bennet, was voted volunteer of the year. She has made a huge impact on both the Gareloch group and the West and Central Scotland region RDA. Due to Kate’s sheer hard work, the group now caters for more than fifty riders in ten sessions each week, and has four of its own horses, purpose-built chalets to accommodate the tack room, a classroom, and a session room housing the mechanical horse. Kate also undertakes a massive workload as regional chair for West and Central Scotland. Within the past year, she supported four new groups in the region, and gave a huge amount of time helping with planning Equi-Power Central Scotland RDA, the new centre of excellence. Her duties also include journeys south to represent the region at national level.

Neither Gareloch group nor the region would be what they are without Kate’s input – she lives and breathes RDA, doing it all in her gentle, unassuming manner with her trademark smile. We owe Kate a huge debt of gratitude that will never be repaid.

Gillie Drapper, Regional Publicity Officer

NORTH WEST It’s been another busy few months in the North West following the year’s 40th celebrations of carriage driving. Our regional conference was at Myerscough College, near Preston. The event included ‘Hat Fitting’ with Claire Williams from BETA, and ‘Volunteer Management’ with Matt Cobble from the national office. Brenda Burnett and Margaret Chree travelled all the way down from the Highlands to tell us about ‘Endurance’, and as a result some of our groups are signing up to start. Our County Chairmen presented some interesting facts and figures about PAT HOLDEN AND FELICITY GOODEY our groups, including diversification.

Tess Chew gave us ideas for making lessons more fun and introducing canter, and Vicky Howarth from our Pendle group gave us a wonderful display and life story called ‘Jam on the Window’, explaining life with a visual impairment.

Jean Carter, one of our honorary vice presidents, presented Kate Bailey, Regional Coach, with the National Volunteer of the Year trophy for our region in appreciation for all her work, especially with riding simulators.

With the help of Sarah Underwood, our participants representative, Kate developed a mechanical horse with Racewood Simulators in Cheshire, especially designed for RDA use. The presentation at the Coaching Conference in Warwickshire was very inspiring.

Our Helper of the Year trophy went to Pat Holden, who is always the first to volunteer for any event. Felicity Goodey, our other honorary regional vice president, presented the trophy – she first presented it more than 30 years ago.

Our fairly new North East Lancs group became the 100th show jumping group, and Jody O’Brien received a special certificate on behalf of the group, presented by Marisa Bretherton-Mackay from the national office.

The Supra regional conference at Northop College was a fun event organised

by North Wales, and supported by the North West and West Mercia. There were some excellent workshops groups and interesting demonstrations.

FOR ALL WINNERS, PLEASE SEE RDA.ORG. UK/2015/BEST-EVERGALA-AWARDS-IS-ASTAR-STUDDED-NIGHTTO-REMEMBER

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The dressage competition at Mid Cheshire RDA between Christmas and New Year was well supported; to start the New Year, a group of 100 volunteers and participants and their families attended the first Liverpool International Horse Show, at the Liverpool Echo Arena at the beginning of January.

We would like to thank Claire Milican for all her support over the last three years, and we look forward to having Cat Stuart join our regional committee.

Sheila Saner, Regional Chairman

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Regional reports

From the horse’s mouth...

IN AUGUST 2016, THE FESTIVAL OF BRITISH EVENTING TAKES PLACE AT GATCOMBE PARK, THE COTSWOLDS HOME OF THE PRINCESS ROYAL AND HER FAMILY.

Regional reports Xxxx

LEFT: MID WEST RIDERS, VOLUNTEERS AND PONIES MADE A GRAND ENTRANCE AT GATCOMBE HORSE TRIALS BELOW: HRH THE PRINCESS ROYAL PRESENTED ROSETTES TO RIDERS RIGHT: THE PRINCESS ROYAL PRESENTING LONG SERVICE AWARDS TO (LEFT TO RIGHT) JANET CAMPBELL, ROSEMARY OSBORNE, MARY FINNEY AND RHONA RHEID

MID WEST One of the highlights for the Mid West region is the display to music we do at Gatcombe Horse Trials, culminating with the Princess Royal presenting each rider with a rosette. In 2015, we had seven groups representing us from Talland, Saxon, Wellow, Lyncombe Lodge, the Avon Riding Centre, Patchwork and Lacock. There were slightly fewer riders and ponies this year as one of the groups was unable to come at the last minute, but we filled the arena with music and smiles, and everyone thoroughly enjoyed it, with no mishaps. We are asked to do this display every two years and it is always a very popular day.

Cotswold RDA enjoyed a memorable day in July when Her Royal Highness the Princess Royal paid a visit. The Princess is no stranger to Cotswold RDA (having visited twice before) and met some of the group’s riders, volunteers and supporters during the hour-long visit. The Princess, together with more than 150 guests, watched the award-winning Musical Ride team (they won the regional Musical Ride award for 2015), in a very emotional display. Riders and ponies were superb, it was so perfect there wasn’t a dry eye in the house.

The Princess chatted to riders from Drybrook and Milestone schools, as well as corporate supporters such as Asda and Coop, and riders, Becki Andrews, James Ashby, Daniel McAleavy and Victoria Smith.

Volunteers were presented with long-service awards for 15 to 40 years’ service. Congratulations to Joyce Gilder, who has reached her 40th anniversary – a wonderful achievement.

The visit was also a great opportunity to present the Princess with the group’s plans for the future development of the school.

Stephen Limbrick and James Vincent from architects Robert Limbrick Limited presented the plans, so the Princess could visualise what the future will look like at Cotswold RDA. But

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the redevelopment wouldn’t be happening without the commitment from Ian Renton and the Jockey Club – without their support, this exciting new project wouldn’t happen.

As chairman, Paul McLain, summed up: ‘Everyone had a fantastic day, and is was brilliant to see so many people having a great time.

Our redevelopment plan is the biggest project we have ever undertaken and, with a price tag upwards of £1.5 million, we certainly have a lot of fundraising to do, but this new facility will provide our wonderful services to far more children and adults throughout Gloucestershire, and ensure we can secure a future for them.’

Special thanks to everyone who helped make this a perfect day, including Natalie Neville (Johnny’s mum from Drybrook school), who made the fabulous 50th anniversary cake including the spare (just in case), and all the ladies who made some delicious cakes and prepared the tea and coffee for guests.

Lizzie Blair, Regional Chairman

Our redevelopment plan is the biggest project we have ever undertaken and, with a price tag upwards of £1.5 million, we certainly have a lot of fundraising to do, but this new facility will provide our wonderful services to far more children and adults throughout Gloucestershire.

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Regional reports

SOUTH WALES SOUTH WEST

ABOVE: SOMERSET LEVELS PARTY!

Several groups in South Wales have been assessed as ‘Show Jumping’ groups, and are looking forward to offering this new activity to their riders.

United Counties RDA training group offers show jumping to level 4, at the Coleg Sir Gar venue, with group coach Ellen Griffiths (Level 4), and group coach Amanda Say (Level 2).

Bridgend County group also has new show jumping group coaches in Emma Jelfs and Joan Lean, (both Level 2), and Julie Humphry (Level 1).

And at Clytha RDA group, three new coaches are Patricia Luxmoore and Jenny Richards (both at Level 1), and Rachel Wolverson (Level 2).

Clytha RDA group also received a saddle donated

by The Worshipful Company of Saddlers.

Patricia Luxmoore, Regional Chairman

More than 20 clients and volunteers of the Somerset Levels driving group attended a party at Butleigh Wootton on a wet November day to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of RDA carriage driving. On show were the group’s four ponies: Whizzy and Millie, who received their long-service awards; new recruit Hamish; and Beryl, the group’s mascot and now retired. A volunteer made a celebration cake, and a bring-and-share lunch was held in the rain!

Yolanda Hansford, the group chairman said, ‘Our wonderful band of volunteers not only help with the driving sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays, but also look after the ponies every day of the week.’

RDA provided 40th anniversary badges for the volunteers and special rosettes for the ponies.

Another party was held by the Acorn and Squirrels group, to celebrate the winning of the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, and to thank all the people who, through the year, donated money to the group. Clare Rendle, the chairman, thanked everyone for coming and introduced the group’s new piebald cob, Inky, who was on show for the first time. An audience of 80 watched a short musical ride performed by the younger riders, and gymkhana games performed by the older riders. All the riders were presented with Christmas-themed rosettes. This was followed by mulled wine and mince pies.

The Jersey Group had a Christmas party to thank the volunteers for their help through the year, and to present long-service awards that added up to 180 years of volunteering!

Sue Ingleby, Regional Chairman

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ANN HARRISON (POWER GROUP SECRETARY AND RIDER WITH THE GROUP, WHO RODE FOR THE SHOW JUMPING ASSESSMENT), EMMA JELFS (GROUP COACH), RHIAN HURLEY ON CASPER, MIKE BUTCHER RDA LEAD SHOWJUMPING COACH, JULIE HUMPHRY AND JOAN LEAN.

Regional reports

GRAMPIAN AND HIGHLANDS One of 2015’s highlights was the National Championships at Hartpury, where the region was represented by no less than 11 riders, and three drivers. All our regional competitors enjoyed varying degrees of success, and are already making plans to attend next year’s event.

Early last summer, RDA UK Chief Executive Ed Bracher was treated to a whirlwind tour of the north-east corner of Scotland, and managed to visit the Buchan, Deeside and Gordon groups – all three of which are very diverse in nature. Buchan rides at a commercial riding school, and Ed met the two new participants’ representatives, Alison MacDonald and Lisa Steele. The Deeside group is based at Belwade Farm, which is a World Horse Welfare centre, and has recently introduced a hoist. Gordon group runs its own, purpose-built centre, and its members have been greatly involved with the pioneering development of hippotherapy in the region.

‘Hippotherapy Practice’ and ‘Equine Assessment’ are two newly accredited modules – the first of their kind in the UK – available at RGU in Aberdeen. They are designed as post-graduate modules for qualified physiotherapists and occupational therapists, offering these specialists the opportunity to harness horse power to deliver rehabilitation to patients. Dr Valerie Cooper (regional ACPTR physiotherapist) said: ‘There is growing interest in the effectiveness of hippotherapy as a treatment for a number of conditions, and it is an exciting area for practising physios and OTs to develop their skills.’

Weeks of planning, panicking, painting and practising went into ‘A Year in the Life of the Moray Group RDA’, and on a glorious day at the beginning of October, Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal was taken on a whistle-stop trip through the year, month by month. The show included as many riders and helpers as possible, and involved banners, bunting, music, lightning-fast costume changes, comic timing, and the all-important audience participation. According to chairperson Charlotte Mountain, the Princess was amazing: ‘She spoke to everyone, presented over a hundred medals, and made everyone feel that they were the most important person at that moment. Truly inspiring.’ It was a very proud day for the Moray group.

A large contingent from the region attended the Scottish Supra-Regional conference, where it was a pleasure to see Jane Watson, regional treasurer, receive her Volunteer of the Year Award from the Princess Royal. Jane continues as treasurer for the Buchan group and, as well as being known for her organisational and counting skills, she is an expert soup-maker and baker of cakes! (An essential role in RDA.) Valerie Roy, Regional Chairman RIGHT:JACK PATERSON ON POPPY, MEETING THE PRINCESS ROYAL DURING HER VISIT TO THE MORAY GROUP.

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35

Regional reports

ARDEN RDA’S ALFIE

WEST MERCIA West Mercia region is very excited to have secured the fantastic new competition facilities of Stourport Equestrian Centre for our regional qualifier event in May 2016.

Unusually, stabling and equines will be available for groups who are unable to bring horses to the show.

In Shropshire, particular congratulations to Lauren Fitzpatrick, who competed in her first RDA dressage class at a British dressage show, and achieved an impressive 65%.

Brockton Court group has recently moved premises, and is happily settled with a fantastic new waiting room area. The new room was made possible from donations in memory of Dr Liz Pope, a local GP who passed away following a car accident.

Shropshire County also took eight adult riders to the Clwyd Special Riding Centre near Wrexham for an RDA holiday. For some, this was the first time away from home, but the superb facilities and dedication of a wonderful team of volunteers ensured a fantastic time.

Warwickshire groups are soon to be in receipt of a generous legacy following the sad death of Rosemary Stretch, our long-serving County Chairman, earlier in the year.

The County decided that each group should be given the opportunity to purchase something special for their group in Rosemary’s memory. Rosemary was a wonderful ambassador and shall be very sadly missed.

Stratford upon Avon group achieved the wonderful milestone of giving 1,000 rides during the last year – as their chairman Donna Jenkins reports, this wouldn’t be possible without the support and dedication of everyone involved with the group. Stratford also welcomed a new four-legged member to the group – Alfie has joined the team of horses, and was purchased due to a substantial grant from the Zurich Community Trust (UK) Ltd. Alfie is a 15hh five-year-old Irish cob, and will help Stratford reduce its current waiting list. Alfie came to the group on a trial, and is happily settled into the RDA routine. Arden RDA group has also increased its equine numbers with two gift horses – another Alfie joining their team, along with Teddy, an 11hh dappled grey for the increased numbers of smaller riders. Both have settled in well, and Alfie enjoyed being the group’s demonstration horse for a farrier display at the annual show.

Both Herefordshire groups are looking at exciting changes and developments. Hereford RDA is well on the way (with hard work and money still required!) to securing a purposebuilt centre, which will allow for more activities and the resumption of carriage driving.

Ride 2 Achieve has settled well into new premises, having moved in September. The group’s riders are hoping to build on successes at the National Championships, where Megan was champion in her freestyle dressage class. The centre manager and chief coach, Janet Alderton, is close to achieving her RDA senior coach status. Herefordshire County is very grateful and proud to have her support and services.

The region held its final training for the year at Rodbaston Equestrian Centre, around the themes of mounting and dismounting, and best practice. These training days attracted more than 180 volunteers, led by Anona White, regional coach; Lynne Munro, regional physiotherapist; and Doug Smith, who is chairman of RDA’s equine committee.

Celia Baker, Regional Chairman

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STRATFORD UPON AVON’S ALFIE

Regional reports

RIDING OUT

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Xxxx Regional reports

ABOVE: ENJOYING THE SUNSHINE IN THE NORTH MIDLANDS

NORTH MIDLANDS Originally a satellite venture supported by Nottingham RDA, Belvoir Vale RDA is now an established group, granted charity status in August 2015. Based at Belle Vue Stables in the beautiful Vale of Belvoir, Belvoir Vale RDA celebrated with a launch party in Colston Bassett. The evening was a great success, informing local people about the new group’s activities and ways in which they can help by volunteering or attending fund-raising events. The group was delighted to be made aware of three more child riders who wished to join.

The group has been very fortunate to receive a 12.2hh dressage pony, Ali, donated by a kind sponsor. She is already settling in and proving popular on the yard. We are sure she will be a great asset to the group, and ideal for those children ready to progress with their riding off the lead rein.

Planning for a new clubhouse is being submitted. The group hopes to build a 6m x 3m facility to benefit both the children and their carers. Thank you to Jane Nuthall of Belvoir Vale RDA for this update on the new group’s progress

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In November, Donington Hall welcomed more than 100 guests to celebrate 25 years of Wenlo RDA group.

The successful fundraising 25th Birthday Black Tie Charity Ball was organised by Wenlo volunteers Nicki Gunn and Susan Tomkins.

A ‘bubbly’ reception preceded a delicious three-course meal. Lesley Davies (regional chairman) and her husband Martyn donated two tickets to a Manchester United match for the auction – much appreciated, and raised £250!

The evening was beautifully brought together by compere David Monkhouse, with an exciting live auction and raffle drawn by Stuart Garner (of Norton Motorcycles, and owner of Donington Hall), before The Roosters live band took to the stage, and filled the dance floor.

Thank you to our guests, sponsors and supporters in making the evening a spectacular success, and raising more than £5,000 for Wenlo RDA group.

The Southwell & District Agricultural Society’s annual

Regional reports Xxxx

NORTH WALES

ploughing match and show, (Nottinghamshire’s celebration of all things rural) was in September 2015, courtesy of Oxton Estates. The event was described as the most successful and well-attended show in its history. A Riding for the Disabled class is always on the schedule, open to RDA member group participants, and to disabled members of the public. The class is set up and facilitated in collaboration with the Society by the RDA Nottinghamshire County chairperson, and in 2015 the hard work fell to Jackie Selby and her team of helpers.

Ponies taking part were supplied by Marjorie Flint from Lings Lane Stables, Keyworth, Notts, home to both the South Notts and Nottingham RDA groups. Competitors from South Notts RDA were joined by keen participants from other RDA groups within Nottinghamshire, primarily Retford and Dovecote.

Clarissa Howkins, North Midlands joint Regional Chairman, presented Hannah Fidler with the North Midlands Regional Volunteer of the Year award. Hannah has volunteered with Retford RDA since 2012, and now combines RDA volunteering with all the commitments of a normal 17 year old – long school days with exams to study for, a part time job, driving lessons, caring for her own horse, and nights out with friends. Despite her busy schedule, Hannah has not missed a single session of Retford’s weekly RDA riding sessions. In nominating her for the award, Hannah was described as a brilliant example of a teenager who puts those less fortunate before herself week after week, all year round, for no reward except the joy of seeing them ride.

We would like to thank Neels Burger and Sam Davison for their kind help and NORTH WALES expertise in setting LAUNCHED ITS up the North Wales REGIONAL WEBSITE regional website! Sam IN DECEMBER 2015: is our regional website NORTHWALESREGIONcoordinator, and we look RDA.ORG forward to all our groups providing information for both the region’s website and Facebook.

We also send our congratulations to Zena Spencer, awarded our region’s Volunteer of the Year! Zena was nominated for her hard work and dedication with the Wrexham Drivers, and with the Regional Driving Qualifier. Zena is an RDA carriage driving coach for the Wrexham Drivers, who provided a driving demo at the North Wales Supra regional conference at Northop College in October. She coaches twice each week at the Clwyd Special Riding Centre near Wrexham, and puts in many hours of unseen work behind the scenes to ensure the drivers have the best opportunities and experiences possible. Well done and thank you Zena!

Elizabeth Rees, and Alys Lewis-Jones, Joint Regional Chairman

ZENA SPENCER, NORTH WALES REGION VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

Lesley Davies, Regional Chairman

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Regional reports

YORKSHIRE AND CLEVELAND It has been relatively quiet in the region for the last few months. Many of our groups with only outdoor facilities have closed for the winter period, and are busily recharging their batteries for next spring!

Our first regional meeting aimed at participants was in November at Middleton Park Equestrian Centre, Leeds.

There was discussion about ways to expand rider activities, and about the more recent developments in RDA. There was lots of enthusiasm about ‘Endurance’, and some groups in the region are planning to develop this in the New Year (when the weather improves). It was generally felt this would be a lovely way to ride outside an arena lesson. Show jumping was also discussed, and how and where riders can progress up the levels, and the possibility of getting someone to talk/demonstrate freestyle dressage to music. Another meeting is planned for the spring.

Many of the groups have held awards evenings, where their riders’ successes have been celebrated with friends and families. We have seen some very unusual awards this year, especially given to parents who help out in so many ways at the groups.

Riders from Haworth and St Ives took part in the Special Olympics competition in Sheffield. They had trained hard for this event and were delighted to come home with gold, silver and bronze medals.

Congratulations also go to Emma Greenwood from Throstle Nest RDA, who has just completed the Bronze section of the Young Equestrian Leader Awards.

The region was saddened to hear of the death of Jean Burdon, who had a long involvement with the RDA. Many people in the region can share memories of this amazing lady, and we heard some of these at our last regional meeting. Her family asked for donations, in lieu of flowers, to be made to the region. It was decided to use this money to fund a Jean Burdon Award scheme.

Finally, we heard that Santa was very busy visiting the groups in the region. Many of his visitors went to find him while riding a pony, which caused great excitement.

Maggie Tansley, Regional Chairman PICTURE TOP TO BOTTOM: SPECIAL OLYMPICS AT HAWORTH • BUSY SANTA

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Regional reports

SOUTH EAST BELOW: SUZANNE BEING PRESENTED WITH THE BIRT SPOONER CUP.

SOUTH South region had a busy start to the academic year, with many new riders joining our groups. Some groups have started using the new ‘Endeavour’ awards with their riders, with positive feedback.

Suzanne Stratford and her family from Broadlands RDA were in the limelight as one of the longest running groups; it was started by her mother, and is believed to be the oldest group still in its original venue. Last November, Suzanne stole the show at the RDA AGM at Saddlers Hall in London, where she was presented with the Birt Spooner Cup. This is an award presented by the RDA board of directors to an individual or group of people who have made an exceptional contribution to RDA or para-equestrian. The award is only presented when a suitable recipient is identified, and is not presented annually. As the photo shows, it is the most enormous cup and Suzanne, her husband and son had the daunting task of taking it home in a bag on the train! It was certainly a well-deserved award, and the region sends Suzanne, her family and all at Broadlands RDA, past and present, huge congratulations.

Also in November, Oxfordshire put on a very interesting training day for coaches at Abingdon RDA, even though it was like sitting in a windy deep freeze. The main theme was communication, and how coaches communicate with their riders.

A particularly busy autumn kicked off when our carriage drivers braved the torrential rain to compete in the qualifier for the RDA National Championship in 2015.

We were extremely lucky and grateful to our wonderful judges, led by Sara Howe, who had just returned from the World Championships in Holland with a bronze medal for Team GB. This was followed by an exciting weekend of fundraising at the South of England Horse Trials, where an army of volunteers, young and old, collected around the trade stands and on the course. Some were lucky enough to meet Tina Cook, Olympic medallist, eventing heroine and our vice president, who said a special thank you for their efforts.

Our annual regional conference attracted more than 130 delegates, who were asked to focus on the theme of ‘People and Potential’, with a series of excellent workshops run

by Caroline Ward and Matt Cobble from the national office. The day ended with some well-deserved awards presented by Tina Cook. Liz Major from Heron’s Ghyll (East Sussex) was awarded the coveted Tora Bray Perpetual Trophy for being ‘a committee member, companion whip, indefatigable helper and all round good sport’ and going ‘above and beyond’ the normal.

Liz Wrighton from Bradbourne (Kent), was also honoured with the Volunteer of the Year award. The 25-year service awards went to Anna Kerr from Court Meadow (East Sussex), and Mary Briggs, Helen Mills and Jennifer Nash – all from Cranleigh (Surrey). It was fitting that in this 40th anniversary year of carriage driving, the Buchan Bobby Trophy went to the Stella Hancock Driving Group (Surrey) for producing an extraordinary display for the RDA president, the Princess Royal.

Lindsay Correa, Regional Chairman TINA PRESENTS LIZ MAJOR OF HERON’S GHYLL WITH THE TORA BRAY AWARD.

When I took over from Anne Coney at the start of this year, she advised me to make sure to accept all invitations to everything, especially group Christmas lunches – I fully intend to!

This has been a very busy year, in which I have learned a lot about RDA and the groups in South region. I have enjoyed it enormously, and look forward to next year and getting to the groups that I have yet to visit.

Frances Lochrane, Regional Chairman

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What’s going on

We want you to be in the know when it comes to RDA Events. Make sure you mark these dates on your calendar for 2016...

UPCOMING EVENTS January 31

BEF Para-Equestrian Entry Programme All day – Diamond Centre, Surrey

February 10

Regional Officer’s Day All day – Aintree Racecourse, Liverpool Merseyside

February 16

Governance Talk to South Region Group Trustees Berkshire College of Agriculture.

February 26

National Coaches Training Day From noon Merrist Wood, Surrey Holly Lane Worplesdon

February 28

Dressage Training Day All day – South Bucks RDA

March 1

National Coaches Training Day All day – Summer House Equestrian, Hardwicke, Gloucester

March 8

National Coaches Training Day All day – Richmond Equestrian Centre, North Yorkshire

March 13

BEF Para-Equestrian Entry Programme All day – Unicorn Centre, Hemlington, Middlesborough

March 15

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South Region AGM Time and venue to be confirmed

March 15

RDA National Showjumping Training Day Spring 2016 (South) All day – Littlebrook Equestrian Centre, Newchapel, Surrey

March 16

National Coaches Training Day All day – World Horse Welfare Centre, Aberdeenshire

March 29

National Coaches Training Day All day – Moulton College, Northamptonshire

May 25

West Mercia Regional Qualifier All day – Stourport Riding Centre, Stourport-on-Severn

June 7

Regional Dressage and Countryside Challenge All day – West & Central Scotland

June 5

South Region show All day – Wellington

July 15 – 17

RDA National Championships 2016 All day – Hartpury College, Gloucestershire

October 16 – 17

Coaching Conference Ettington Chase

November 16

RDA AGM Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Rd, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL50 4SH

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