Search is on for Anky’s pupil

Today sees the launch of a nationwide search for a talented rider to star alongside Dutch dressage star Anky van Grunsven in a special evening lecture/demo at Equus 2003 on Saturday 5 April in London.

Anky has asked Horse & Hound Online to help find a rider of the future who would like the opportunity to sample a one-off top training session with their own horse.

An Evening with Anky is looking for a budding star rather than an accomplished professional and this golden opportunity is open to riders and horses of all disciplines, not just dressage.

The nominated rider and their horse should be brave enough to perform at the training session at Equus in front of a capacity audience and should be competing at a minimum of medium level dressage, novice BE eventing or BSJA Foxhunter level.

So, if you think this description fits you, a friend or even your instructor or trainer, explain in less than 25 words why you think this person would benefit from this golden training opportunity with Anky.

“For the clinic at Equus I am looking for someone who competes regularly,” says Anky. “You don’t have to be winning every time out, but I think that it’s important that you and your horse are comfortable enough to perform in front of an audience.

“I don’t want to restrict you – if you feel you can rise to this challenge please apply – but as a guide I am looking for someone who is competing at least medium level dressage, or novice level eventing, or if you are a show jumper jumping 1m 10.

“The aim of this part of the clinic is to be able to deal with everyday problems. It really helps me communicate my training methods when the audience can identify with what the rider is working through inthe arena.”

Please also include details about the nominated person and their horse, including competition experience, best results to date, age of horse and rider, plus contact details.

The lucky chosen rider will also receive a complete ANKY outfit, so don’t forget to include the required size for breeches and tops.

The winner (plus horse) will be invited to London on 4 April to meet Anky and prepare for the training session the next day.Stabling and rider accommodationwill also be included in the prize.

“I wish you luck and look forward to meeting you at Equus, when you will be the star of the show!” says Anky

Please send your nominations, plus your name, address and contact number, via email to: Amlambe1@aol.com with “lesson with Anky” in the subject line

• All entries must be received by noon on Thursday 20 March.
• Incomplete entries and entries received afterthe closing date will not be considered. The winner’s name will be posted on the site after the closing date.About EquusEquus will be held at ExCeL, the state-of-the-art indoor exhibition centre in London’s Docklands area, with parking for 5,000 cars, bars, restaurants and other facilities. It takes place from 3-6 April 2003 and is open 10am-9pm from Thursday-Saturday and 10am-5pm on Sunday.For full details of the programme visit www.equusevent.co.uk. Tickets can be booked for morning, afternoon or evening performances from £10 adults and £7.50 children by calling (tel:01959 542776) or via the website.

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