Horses have been part of my life for as long as I can remember. Both my parents were involved with horses; my Father was in th army and hosted hounds, and my mother bred champions. I always knew that I wanted to event and, having gained “fall back” qualifications, my father relented and allowed me to pursue my passion.
I rode internationally and gained medals as a Junior and Senior, culminating in a Silver Medal at the Los Angeles Olympics in 1984. I have competed at Badminton and Burghley on numerous occasions and gained many other significant results.
In order to create a base for my knowledge I founded Eventers International and I am proud of my record supporting and producing a whole host of horses, teams and riders at all levels, three of whom have gone on to ride at the Olympics.
Nowhere is it truer that “change is the only constant” than in the equine world. At any moment, factors can change for the rider, their horse and their circumstances and the need to adapt is a given. It is the only sport where a trainer needs to work holistically with two sentient beings and the the triangle of trust and dedication is an imperative as the “team of three” seeks to break down the ambition into small wins in order to achieve the big goal.
I have spent the last three tears honing my practical skills and years of experience into the complete package through my work work with Centre10, a body which specialises in training the trainer to optimise the psychological potential of their athletes.
Nothing gives me greater joy than seeing that lightbulb momnet when something just clicks between horse and rider and the subsequent smile of pure elation.
As those who have worked with me at any level will attest, I am:
Dedicated – each client and their horse is treated as an individual, working together to understand the things that are unique to the partnership and working on all aspects from the physical to the emotional
Attentive – over the years, I have had the good fortune to meet many talented individuals who are the very best in the their chosen fields. From physios to vets, breeders to doctors, dentists to trainers, every need can be met to enable my clients to realise their goals.
Resilient – the path to attainment, whatever the level, neverdoes run smooth and one of my strengths is my ability to find straightforward solutions which refocus and build confidence.
Enthusiastic – riding is exhilarating. It’s tough. It demands dedication and time but there is nothing that compares to the confidence and sense of attainment given by a moment of complete harmony. Above all, it should be fun.
My aim is to impart this to riders of all levels – helping them to become m ore confident, competent and complete as riders and as people.
Everyone can dare to dream big and, with Tiny Changes, we can make those dreams a reaility.