Teamwork shines at our best National Championships yet

Our team returned from the RDA National Championships with wonderful memories, fantastic results and plenty to be proud of.

This year's Nationals was one of our best ever. Of course, we're delighted with the fantastic results, but what made the weekend truly special was the incredible teamwork that made it all possible.

After several years of travelling to Hartpury together, everyone knew exactly where they needed to be and when. Whether preparing horses, supporting riders, grooming, cooling ponies in the hot weather, organising equipment or cheering from the sidelines, every member of the team played their part. The whole weekend ran like a well-oiled machine.

A huge thank you goes to our wonderful volunteers, who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make sure every participant had the support they needed. From helping riders get ready and serving meals to assisting with the hoist and making sure everyone was comfortable throughout the day, there were countless acts of kindness that helped make the Championships such a success.

Our ponies were, as always, absolute stars. Despite the soaring temperatures, their welfare remained our top priority, with plenty of water, cooling sponges and well-earned breaks between events. They gave us everything they had, and we couldn't be prouder of them.

There were plenty of reasons to celebrate in the competition arena too. One unforgettable highlight was that we loaned Reggie out to Sheila, a rider from Thornton Rose RDA in Scotland. Despite having not met before they scored the highest dressage score of the entire Championships, winning the prestigious Carl Hester Cup.

What makes that achievement even more remarkable is that Park Lane doesn't have an arena to train in. Our riders and ponies prepare in the facilities we have available, making this success all the more special.

Whether you came home with a rosette, supported from the sidelines, looked after a horse, or simply helped keep everything running smoothly, you were part of an incredible team effort.

Thank you to everyone who represented Park Lane with such kindness, dedication and team spirit. We couldn't be prouder.

Now, after giving us their whole hearts and hooves, our ponies are back home enjoying some well-deserved rest and relaxation – and we're already looking forward to next year's Championships!

Find out how Sheila and Reggie became championship-winning partners in Sheila’s guest blog.

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