By Natalie O’Rourke
Competitions in the world of horses are usually focused on riding, or on carriage driving. But what about the essential skills of the non-riders who keep a stable yard running smoothly? This new initiative celebrates them.
This summer I was fortunate enough to attend two fantastic sports events – one tennis, one cricket – with Woody. Both were inclusive events for people with disabilities celebrating what they CAN do. I was inspired to do a similar thing centred around horses, and the Stable Skills Challenge began to take shape.
I reached out to our friends at The Diamond Centre and luckily they loved the idea. Since then, we’ve received sponsorship from Pachesham Equestrian Centre, Equine America, The Masons Arms in Teddington, and even an equine NGO in China, Shanghai Xuhui District Huahui Equine Therapy Centre. Turns out it wasn’t just us getting excited!
So what’s is all about?
We go to competitions for riding and carriage driving, which our participants love for the camaraderie and the excitement of competing and – just possibly – winning. But what about the skills of the non-riders? They are crucial to keeping a busy yard running and horses and humans safe. And that’s what The Stable Skills Challenge celebrates.
What’s involved on the day?
Clio, winner of the individual prize, in a strong field!
Our inaugural event this week featured 32 participants, 16 from each centre. Teams of four each comprised two Park Laners and two Diamonds, wearing team T-shirts. They went head to head on different skills challenges at a series of stations, tackling things like putting on a headcollar, identifying pony colours and markings, field care, grooming, and leading. It’s a great way to draw attention to these crucial skills which are usually overlooked in competitions, encouraging participants to show off their skills and compete to see them rewarded. And of course to forge new friendships across centres. Winning teams of course get prizes! And there’s an overall trophy for the individual showing outstanding team spirit and attitude towards the horses.
The Diamond Centre and its gorgeous ponies played host to this week’s event which we hope to roll out more widely next year. Watch this space!
“He chattered non stop till bedtime about all the different challenges, his team mates and the medal and rosette. It makes me so proud and emotional to see him so happy and participate with confidence.” Joanne, mum of Mark
Natalie adds:
“It was everything I hoped it would be. To see participants making friends and working as a team was magic. Some arrived very nervous and grew in confidence as the day went on. The energy was so warm and there were really good positive vibes.”
A huge thank you to our partners at The Diamond Centre, and to our generous sponsors Pachesham Equestrian Centre, Equine America, The Masons Arms in Teddington, and Shanghai Xuhui District Huahui Equine Therapy Centre.
Dan(PLS), Frazier (Diamond Centre), Chris (PLS) and Sophie (PLS)