Latest from Horse & Hound in Side-saddle

‘He’s push button’: horse of a lifetime lands ladies’ hunter spoils at Royal Windsor 2026

Millie Bowles — Sun, 17 May 2026 07:25:59 +0000

The reserve hunter champion at 2026 Royal Windsor Horse Show, Harbour Master II, continued his winning ways by landing the ladies hunter title later in the day.

“Marley” carried his owner Charlotte Clark sideways to the title, having been piloted astride to the lightweight hunter class and reserve honours just hours earlier by his producer Jayne Ross.

“We’ve had him since he was four and he is quite a character at home,” said Charlotte. “He definitely likes to have attention, but he’s just been a horse of a lifetime really.”

The Harlequin Du Carel 10-year-old was purchased by Charlotte and her mother Elizabeth Trembath after Jayne had broken him in for another owner.

“He’s just been an absolute superstar for me,” Charlotte said.

“He is just a dream and the most comfortable sideways I’ve ever had really. Lots of the judges describe him as sublime. He’s just perfect really.

“He knows his job, so he’s push button for me.”

Marley is a two-time consecutive winner of the ladies hunter championship at the Royal International Horse Show (RIHS).

Charlotte said it is “extra special” to ride side saddle in the grounds of Windsor Castle, adding: “I loved being in the Castle Ring and I love it in the Frogmore, too. It’s quite an atmosphere.”

To polish up her skills riding the side saddle while Marley is at Jayne’s, Charlotte explained she has been allowed to practice on a 21-year-old ex-racehorse local to her.

“I live quite far from Jane; I can’t always get up to the yard being an hour and a half away,” she added,

Team Ross had more to celebrate when Jayne piloted Diane Stennett’s KBF Lucia to a win in the British Show Horse Association (BSHA) ladies show horse class less than 24 hours after the pair lifted the ridden coloured championship.

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Exceptional skill, kindness and lifelong dedication: farewell to master saddler

Eleanor Jones — Sun, 08 Feb 2026 13:39:29 +0000

Master saddler and renowned side-saddle specialist Richard Godden died in December, aged 88.

Richard Godden devoted his entire working life to the saddlery trade, apart from a period of national service, and was widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the preservation and revival of side-saddle making and refurbishment in the UK and beyond.

Born and raised in London during the Second World War, Richard left school at 15. Although his youthful ambition was to become a cartoonist, he was guided into the saddlery trade by his parents and uncle, Les Coker, a master saddler. Richard began work at Champion & Wilton in Oxford Street, London, and after six months was formally indentured into a five-year apprenticeship.

After this, Richard undertook national service, then resumed work with his uncle, at Gidden’s in London. He married Sheila, and they raised sons Richard and Andrew.

After spells with Turner & Bridger and Swaine & Adeney, Richard moved with his family to the west country, where he worked for Colonel Moore and Admiral Place in Milborne Port. He trained two apprentices, Nathaniel Underwood and Jasper Highet, who went on to become highly respected master saddlers.

In the mid-1970s, Richard established his business, and the side-saddle skills he had learned under his uncle came to the fore. He became sought after for manufacture and refurbishment of side-saddles, working closely with the Side Saddle Association and its representative, Liz Turner, who entrusted him with a growing number of saddles hired to riders.

Intensive training

By the early 1990s, concerns were mounting within the Side Saddle Association about the declining number of saddlers capable of specialist side-saddle work. As interest in side-saddle riding was increasing, future availability of safe, well made saddles was at risk. The association approached the Worshipful Company of Saddlers, which contacted Mark Romain of the Society of Master Saddlers (SMS), who contacted Richard.

From 1996 to 2023, Richard ran intensive training weeks every year. Saddlers travelled from across the UK and around the world and it is rare to find a practising side-saddle specialist who did not benefit directly from Richard’s teaching.

Mark said: “Richard Godden was one of the most gifted saddlers I have ever known, but what truly set him apart was his generosity. He shared his knowledge freely and with great humility. Without Richard’s willingness to teach, we simply would not have the skilled side saddle workforce we have today.

“Richard was a modest man who never sought recognition, but his legacy is immense. He safeguarded a craft that was in real danger of being lost and ensured it would be passed on to future generations. The saddlery world owes him a great debt.”

Richard is survived by Sheila, Richard and Andrew.

An SMS spokesperson said: “Richard Godden will be remembered not only for his exceptional skill, but for his kindness, dedication and lifelong commitment to the craft of saddlery.”

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Gorgeous grey and ‘all-round nice chap’ victorious in ladies’ side saddle class at HOYS: ‘He deserves this’

Celeste Gall — Thu, 09 Oct 2025 12:37:12 +0000

Side saddle specialist Jayne Ross produced three of the top four in the Mears Flooring Ladies Side Saddle Horse of the Year Championship at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) with the middleweight hunter Bloomfield Greystones clinching the championship title under Olivia Minihane.

Owned by lawyer Rose Bailey, who was ringside to celebrate, the 10-year-old grey gelding, who is known at home as Liam, will also contest the Catplant Group of Companies Ltd. Middleweight Show Hunter of the Year on Friday with Rose in the saddle.

The pair have stood amateur hunter champions at Royal Windsor and Royal Three Counties this season. Liam also claimed the reserve supreme at the Sport Horse Breeding (GB) National Hunter championships with Jayne in the saddle.

Both Rose and Olivia praised Liam’s outstanding temperament.

“He is just wonderful and looked incredible – Olivia rode him beautifully,” said Rose.

Olivia, for whom this is a first centre line moment in the arena of dreams, added: “He is an all-round nice chap and he really deserves a lovely big win like this.”

Side saddle horse of the year reserve at HOYS

In the reverse of the results in the ladies’ hunter class at Royal International Horse Show (RIHS), Charlotte Clark had to settle with the reserve on her own and her mother Elizabeth Trembath’s Harbour Master II (Marley).

Nine-year-old Marley, who Jayne rode to victory in the lightweight hunter final at RIHS, will also contest the Catplant Group of Companies Ltd. Lightweight Show Hunter of the Year on Friday.

Shelly Perham rode Martin and Shelly Lole’s exciting novice ladies horse Caravagio into third place.

Shelly is no stranger to success in the ladies having taken the supreme horse title in 2005 with the ladies champion Bournebrook Golden Law.

Jayne rounded off the top four with Dianne Stennett’s exquisite coloured mare KBF Lucia.

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‘I don’t want to take my sash off’: Harbour Master lands back-to-back Royal International wins

Bethan Simons — Sat, 26 Jul 2025 19:05:04 +0000

Harbour Master landed a second consecutive win in the ladies’ hunter championship at the 2025 Agria Royal International Horse Show (RIHS), marking a dream result for owner Charlotte Clark.

Known as Marley, he delivered a foot-perfect performance to lift the Betty Skelton Memorial Trophy for the second year running. Owned jointly by Charlotte and her mother Elizabeth Trembath, nine-year-old gelding Marley is by Harlequin Du Carel out of My Lady Carol, and is produced by Jayne Ross.

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“I feel very privileged to own Marley,” said Charlotte. “He’s had a phenomenal season, both as a lightweight hunter and in the ladies’ classes. Winning at the RI once was mind-blowing. To do it again… I don’t want to take my sash off.”

Marley is no stranger to success, having been produced by Jayne Ross since arriving from Ireland as a three-year-old. Charlotte makes the weekly journey from near Stonehenge in Wiltshire to ride him at Jayne’s Buckinghamshire yard, a commitment she says is worth every mile.

“Jayne and her team have done such a fantastic job with him,” she said. “He was an absolute star in the ring, didn’t put a foot wrong, and gave me the most amazing gallop. He’s so well schooled and comfortable – I could sit on him sideways all day!”

Marley’s record this season is impressive. He took the lightweight hunter title at Royal Windsor, Lincoln and the Great Yorkshire Show with Jayne in the saddle, and won the ladies’ classes at Royal Three Counties, Wiltshire and the Great Yorkshire. He had finished third in the RIHS lightweights 24 hours before this triumph.

“Really special”

Charlotte treasures the historical significance of the Betty Skelton Trophy.

“Winning this is such an honour,” she said. “Jinks Bryer and Cindy Sims, the late Betty Skelton’s daughter and granddaughter, teach me side-saddle. I ride Belle, who I’m kindly lent by Susie Flook, in between riding Marley at Jayne’s. Jinks actually gave me a lesson last Friday so to win this trophy, which she once won at Richmond Horse Show before donating it to the RIHS, feels really special.”

At home, Marley is known as a character.

“He’s bitten a section out of his stable to use as a peep hole. We call him the peeping Tom!” Charlotte said “He lines his eye up perfectly to spy on the ponies in the field behind. He keeps us all amused.”

Charlotte’s lifelong involvement with showing began on the lead rein, her mother leading her in the ring. From there she progressed through show ponies, working hunter ponies and intermediates before moving into hunters and riding horses. But her heart lies firmly in the ladies’ classes.

“The joke is that I ride better sideways than I do astride,” she said. “I just love the class.”

Charlotte lives in Wiltshire with her husband, two children, dogs, chickens, sheep and the family’s ponies. She also works part-time as a compliance director for a small group of bankers.

Reserve champion was the Windsor amateur hunter champion, 10-year-old gelding Bloomfield Greystone (Liam), owned by new mum Rose Bailey, and ridden by Olivia Minihane, who impressed with his elegant presence and confident ride. The result marked a total coup for Team Ross, which also produces Liam.

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Effortless elegance (or so it seems): refine your side-saddle skills to glide to the top of the ladies’ show horse line-up

Alex Robinson — Mon, 19 May 2025 08:24:41 +0000

The ideal ladies’ show horse should exhibit a seamless combination of manners, correct way of going, impeccable turnout, and the all-important presence. The overall impression must be one of elegance personified. The rider, too, is expected to be in perfect harmony with her horse, who should then carry the ride judge through the gears with effortless poise and minimal prompting.

When riding side-saddle, the rider sits with both legs to one side – the left – of the horse. This style of riding, once developed to allow women to ride while wearing long skirts or dresses, has its roots in the hunting field. Today, side-saddle continues to grow in popularity, both in and out of the show ring, as riders seek to expand their horses’ skill sets while honouring centuries-old traditions and challenging themselves in the saddle.

Preparing a horse for side-saddle classes is a considerable undertaking, not least because of the emphasis placed on impeccable manners. While minor indiscretions may be forgiven in other classes, the ladies’ horse must be the epitome of calmness and composure — an exemplary, sensible partner at all times.

You’ll commonly find two main side-saddle classes in showing schedules: ladies’ show hunter, open exclusively to hunter types, and ladies’ show horse, which allows all suitable show horses capable of carrying a side-saddle. At Horse of the Year Show, the final is open to all types of show horse, whereas the ladies’ championship at the Royal International Horse Show is restricted to hunters.

That winning feeling: Jayne Ross and Time 2 Reflect take the supreme title at Horse of the Year Show in 2018. (Image credit: Benjamin Clark Photography)

The leading organisation for the discipline is the Side Saddle Association, which hosts events across the year and stages an annual championship, featuring a packed schedule of classes catering to all levels.

Ladies’ show horse classes: the experts and their stars

If you’re planning to introduce your horse to side-saddle this season, the following tips, courtesy of two of the circuit’s most consistent ladies’ show horse contenders, are sure to provide valuable guidance.

Katie Jerram-Hunnable is one of the circuit’s most respected and successful show horse professionals. Over the years, she has produced numerous champion ladies’ show horses, including the legendary Dunbeacon, who stood supreme at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) in 2010, and also claimed the supreme title at the Royal International Horse Show (RIHS) during his illustrious career.

Katie Jerram-Hunnable riding Stardust, owned by The late Queen. (Image credit: Trevor Meeks Photography)

In addition to her accomplishments in the ring, Katie is a qualified judge and a dedicated trainer of side-saddle riders. She has mentored many talented jockeys on their path to success in the ladies’ ranks.

Despite his glittering record, Dunbeacon posed his fair share of challenges, as Katie recalls: “He was cold-backed. He came to side-saddle later in his career and, while he became the most beautiful ladies’ ride, I often worried about getting on him at the start.

“To manage this, I always rode him astride to warm him up. Then, we’d put the side-saddle on, and I’d mount him in a safe environment.”

Jenna Tyldesley-Winston has a long-standing passion for ladies’ show horse classes. Among her most famed horses is the versatile Tudor Minstrel, a dual lightweight and ladies’ hunter who claimed both of his respective finals at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) in 2012.

In 2017, Jenna also took top honours in the RIHS ladies’ final aboard Rehy Horizon, adding to an impressive record that includes multiple wins at major county shows, both astride and riding side-saddle.

Jenna Tyldesley-Winston and Rehy Horizon. (Image credit: Steve Dawe)

A respected panel judge, Jenna has officiated at many of the sport’s leading championships. Though she works within the equestrian industry, showing remains very much her passion and her hobby.

Despite his eventual stardom, Tudor Minstrel – known as Billy at home – was never expected to reach such heights.

“I still bring up Dad’s first-ever quote about Billy today: ‘You’ll never do any good with that horse,’” Jenna says.

“We struggled at the beginning, as we were both learning together. We began in the SEIB Search for a Star series and worked our way up through the ranks. Someone once told me that in showing, you have to do your apprenticeship – and that was definitely true in my case. I started at the bottom and kept going. Eventually, we achieved the things we did, but it’s a hard game to be successful in.”

Tips for ladies show horse classes

1. What should I look for in a ladies’ show horse?

“A fantastic attitude, a super mouth, and a natural place for the saddle to sit on the back,” Katie begins.

“I prefer a horse that lifts into the contact for ladies’ classes. If the horse is slightly above the bit or tends to go onto the forehand, it can be much harder to position them correctly when riding side-saddle.”

Katie stresses that, while most horses can be trained to carry a side-saddle with time and patience, it’s crucial to ensure the horse is mature enough.

“I’d recommend they be older than around seven,” she advises. “This ensures their back is mature enough, and they’re also likely to have the mental capacity to handle it. It’s an extraordinary feeling for a horse to have the rider sitting to one side.”

Jenna adds: “The horse must take you forwards, and it must be comfortable to ride. It should be easy to ride and well-schooled. That said, the side-saddle schooling always comes by training them correctly from the start – before you even put the saddle on. They should be straight, but also able to bend without falling in or working crookedly.”

“Also,” Jenna adds, “if you’re looking to start your horse in a side-saddle, do ensure they are physically mature enough.”

2. Getting to grips with the stick

When riding side-saddle, the rider does not have the use of their right leg, so they carry a stick that replaces the function of the leg.

“You must get your horse used to the stick acting as the leg, and it can take time for them to accept it,” Katie explains. “You use the stick in conjunction with your leg, and it can be tricky to initially get to grips with.”

A stick is carried in the right hand to replace the leg. Credit Peter Nixon (Image credit: creditUnknown)

On the left rein, due to the lack of an outside leg, the horse can fall in through the shoulder and become crooked to the inside.

“I ride exercises such as shallow loops and shoulder-in to work on flexion and straightness,” Katie continues. “Your stick acts as your right leg would during these exercises. I never ask for too much when I’m training, though; work should never be too intense. Sitting sideways can be a strange feeling for a horse initially.

“Keep everything simple, smooth, and soft, and gauge whether the horse is enjoying it. I would initially ride side-saddle once per week, gradually building up to twice. It’s a different pressure, so they need time to adjust.”

3. Legging up

“Ensure you have a good legger-upper, especially in the beginning,” Katie advises. “You need someone who will lift you cleanly and efficiently, so you don’t upset the horse.

“In the early stages, I’d find a strong legger-upper to pop you on, with someone standing at the horse’s head so you have someone there while you get yourself into the right position in the saddle.”

“Never get legged up with your stick in your hand,” Katie adds. “It should be handed to you from the correct side – the off-side of the horse – once you’re in position on top.”

Show producer Hannah Horton highlights the importance of training your horse to also stand quietly for the judge to mount in the ring.

“Make sure your horse will stand for the judge while they get on,” Hannah says. “So many horses swing away from the judge while they’re trying to get on. This can be because riders don’t practice getting legged on, but when you’re in the ring, the judge will always have a leg-up, so your horse must get used to it.”

4. Correct attire

Katie emphasises that the turnout of the rider is one of the key elements of ladies’ show horse classes.

“Ladies’ side-saddle is all about the whole picture being elegant, so this includes exceptional turnout of both horse and rider,” she says. “Ensure you have the correct length of habit and stick, the correct colour gloves, a correct spur on the left side, and that you’ve dressed appropriately for the class, the show you’re attending, and the time of day (whether daytime or evening wear).

“A lady should wear a bowler hat with a shirt and tie in the mornings and a cream stock and top hat with a veil safely secured and pinned back in the afternoons. Some shows and societies insist on safety hats so do check the rules prior to attending.”

Evening dress consists of a cream stock and top hat with a veil. (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

“Always have a handler to dress you and hand you your stick from the off-side.

“Always check the girth is properly secure, too, before starting work. Have your handler check the saddle stays straight as you walk off.”

5. Crookedness during the ride

Jenna’s pet hate when judging is a lack of straightness.

“You can tell as soon as you get on if a horse is crooked or not; the horse will come out of the line-up like a wiggly worm,” she begins. “As soon as you ask the horse to walk off, you want them to walk in a straight line. If they do, they tend to transition into the trot well, and then into canter.

“Basically, if a horse is straight, they generally give a good ride.”

To fix crookedness, Jenna advises working on a circle to get the horse to bend equally on each rein. Practising on the right rein is essential for ladies’ combinations, as the rider does not have the benefit of an outside leg.

“Pop onto a 10m circle and work into a rhythmical trot, using your schooling whip in place of your left leg,” Jenna explains. “Ask for canter and use your schooling whip as a leg aid to encourage the horse to really use their hind leg underneath them. Bring them back to trot, re-establish and repeat.

“These types of exercises improve straightness, but also get the horse to listen to you.”

Katie adds: “When starting out always have a pair of eyes on the ground to make sure you and the saddle are central and straight on the horse through the paces.”

6. Poorly fitting tack

Finding the right side-saddle for your horse can be a challenge, but Jenna emphasises how important it is to do your homework and ask for advice when searching for a saddle.

“Often, the saddles don’t sit correctly because they tend to tip over to the left; they’re not balanced, and you can feel yourself slipping to that side,” she explains.

“Get a saddle-fitter who knows about side-saddles to come and see your horse. I know how hard finding the right saddle can be; we really struggled to find one for Billy as he changed shape so much during his career. Then it was flocked incorrectly, causing him discomfort around his withers. Now, I always go to the same saddle-fitter whom I trust and rely on.

“A lot of side-saddles are also very old – I have two saddles made in the 1920s. But the horses we ride today are so different from those of the early 1900s. They’re much wider and chunkier in build, while the saddles from that time were narrower, with the gullet sitting more on the spine.

“New saddles are best, but they are very expensive, especially when made to measure.”

Master saddler Clare Barnett, who is not only a saddle fitter for side-saddle and astride, but one of the few creators of new side-saddles. Finding the right side-saddle is often a challenge. (Image credit: Andrew Sydenham)

Katie agrees: “The older saddles are narrow and don’t often fit our bigger and broader horses of today. The saddle should sit nicely behind the horse’s shoulder, and you must consider whether it’s comfortable for them.

“Work with an experienced saddle-fitter – the Side-Saddle Association can likely recommend someone.”

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‘He’s a bit spoilt – everyone loves him’: ladies’ and small hunters delight at Royal Windsor Horse Show

Celeste Gall — Sat, 17 May 2025 16:52:33 +0000

Beth Jacomb scored her first red rosette at Royal Windsor Horse Show in the ladies’ hunter class, beating several top names into poll position with her own Triple Crown III.

London-based Beth keeps the 10-year-old with showing producer Will Morton and has owned the Kings Master-sired gelding for five years.

Having stood third at Royal International Horse Show last season, the pair picked up their first ticket to the Horse of the Year Show at the Side Saddle Association national championships.

“He’s a bit of a spoilt brat; he knows how much everyone loves him and he really milks it,” laughed Beth.

Charlotte Clarke with her own and her mother Liz Trembath’s lightweight hunter victor Harbour Master finished in second place, ridden earlier in the day by producer Jayne Ross.

Third was Thursday’s amateur reserve hunter champion Kildalkey Lasrach, owned by Cari Goodridge and ridden in this class by Olivia Minihane.

Surprise in Royal Windsor Horse Show small hunters

Producer Danielle Heath denied Alice Homer and Tidy Town their second consecutive win in the small hunter class when she sprung a surprise win on Louise Kite’s six-year-old gelding Quick Wit (Iggy).

Louise and Danielle have been friends for over 30 years and often talked about Louise owning a horse prior to buying Iggy in January.

“When the opportunity arose to have him, I called Louise and said you need to buy this one. He reminds me of a cross between my small hunter The Politician and Bersham Dragonfly,” said Danielle.

Iggy was bred by Jane Hall by the advanced event horse Brief Encounter and Danielle was surprised by how the horse handled the buzzy atmosphere of Royal Windsor Horse Show.

“He has only been to two small quiet shows previously,” admitted Danielle.

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‘There won’t be another like him’: legendary eight-time Royal International winner dies aged 34

Alex Robinson — Fri, 10 May 2024 07:08:49 +0000

Georgina Andrews’ prolific show horse Overdrive, who won the Royal International Horse Show (RIHS) eight times during his career, has died aged 34.

Overdrive, who was known as Fred at home, competed as an intermediate both on the flat and as a working hunter before he became a champion side-saddle mount.

Helen had intended to aim Fred solely at working hunter classes, but his potential on the flat shone through early on in their partnership: “He completely transformed once we got him home so we decided to do an intermediate show hunter class with him. On our first go, we finished last, but the judge said that we could do well if I could sit him up and get him working from behind. Later that year we finished second at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) under that same judge.”

Fred and Helen, trained by Rachel Turner, were the ones to beat in working hunter ranks from the beginning. In his worker tack, Fred won the President’s Award and the Gold Cup championship at the BSPS championships and the supreme of show accolade at Ponies UK. He finished third at HOYS with a pole, beating three clears.

“My most memorable achievement was standing second at the RIHS over fences in the morning, and winning on the flat in the afternoon, two years on the trot,” said Helen. “He was never that easy to jump, despite his success, but he loved an atmosphere and he was a real showman. He didn’t really like smaller shows and he needed to be in front of a crowd to perform. There won’t be another like him.”

Helen enjoyed three seasons with Fred before he was sold to the Andrews family.

Georgina’s daughter, Sammy, initially rode him, reclaiming the intermediate show hunter title at Hickstead. When Sammy went to university, Georgina took the ride and Fred won the RIHS final five more times with a side-saddle.

His other accolades included the Royal Windsor ladies’ title, the Royal Show supreme and multiple titles at the Show Hack and Cob Association (now the British Show Horse Association) championships.

“The last time he reigned at the RIHS he was 19,” said Georgina, of the former H&H cover star. “H&H once deemed him a rosette machine, and he was just that. He even finished in the top line as a small hunter at the RIHS, and stood third at HOYS as a riding horse; all we did was change his browband!

“Helen had done an amazing job with him prior to him joining our family,” Georgina added. “I could count on one hand how many times he was beaten in side-saddle classes, a good thing really as he always fly-bucked on the lap of honour if he was second; he hated it!

“He was the perfect gentleman in the ring; he never anticipated but he knew the show without me having to even ask. He gave an unbelievable ride and the Hickstead main ring was his favourite place in the world.

“At home, I would describe him as an old, grumpy actor; he could be bad tempered in the stable as that was his private dressing room. He could also be really bright out hacking if there were more than two horses out at one time.”

For the last two years of his life, Fred was based with Helen and Hannah Horton.

“We owe them a lot for giving him such a good retirement,” said Georgina. “He was the biggest character who we will all miss greatly.”

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‘I’ve waited 36 years for my Windsor win’: rider’s joy as ‘sublime’ horse is champion

Alex Robinson — Fri, 03 May 2024 18:30:09 +0000

Within a 10 minute window, two horses from the same yard landed both side-saddle titles on offer at the 2024 Royal Windsor Horse Show. Stealing the show in the 2024 Royal Windsor ladies’ hunter class was Charlotte Clark riding her own and her mother Elizabeth Trembath’s lightweight gelding Harbour Master II (Marley).

The Harlequin Du Carel eight-year-old is based with Jayne Ross, a side-saddle icon herself who has won this accolade numerous times on the likes of Hello Dolly and Time2Reflect.

“I just love riding at Windsor, though while I’ve been coming here for 36 years this is my first-ever win here,” said mum-of-three Charlotte, who has been based with Team Ross for eight years. “Adding to this, Mum and Dad’s KBF Stackton Tressel won the novice heavyweights this morning. So, we’ve waited over three decades for a win here, and we get two in one day!”

Earlier today, Marley finished third in a hotly-contested lightweight class under Jayne. Marley came over from Ireland originally and Charlotte and her parents bought him as an unshown four-year-old.

“He’s just turned eight now and he’s in his prime,” Charlotte added. “We’ve been here in the ladies’ three times so I think we’ve finally hit the nail on the head. He rose to the occasion today. He’s quite a busy person and he likes the spotlight; he’s definitely an attention seeker, though when he gets it right he’s sublime.”

Jayne was not to be outdone by her students, though, as she held onto a top initial pull in after the go-round to win the British Show Horse Association (BSHA) ladies’ show horse honours with Diane Stennett’s KBF Lucia, the reigning Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) ladies’ champion.

The Free Spirit seven-year-old is also a multi-garlanded ridden coloured show horse who has won HOYS twice with Jayne astride, too.

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Meet the 1.20m showjumper turned dressage star who is now excelling in a side-saddle

Alex Robinson — Sat, 29 Jul 2023 17:32:40 +0000

We’re usually satisfied if a horse has a successful career in one sphere during their lifetime, let alone three. The over-achieving Oldenburg Ashleys Lanchello is making a name for himself on the side-saddle scene at the age of 19, after successful stints as both a showjumper and a dressage horse.

Ashleys Lanchello (Cello) is owned by Vanessa Jensen and Linda Pollock, and he’s currently on loan to side saddle specialist Liz Rogers. He’s in his second season in side saddle classes, and his current tally includes wins at Hope Show, Royal Three Counties and Side Saddle Association fixtures.

The gelding, who stands at 16.1hh, began his career as a showjumper, competing regularly up to 1.20m and producing multiple double clears.

“We bought Cello seven years ago for my former business partner and good friend Vanessa, who was on the hunt for a schoolmaster,” says Linda, who has owned multiple horses with Vanessa over the years. “We bought him from Megan Bristow, and while he hadn’t competed for a long time, he had an impressive showjumping CV.”

On getting him home, Linda and Vanessa believed in Cello’s potential for the dressage arena, so they began to dip their toes into the scene.

“He really took to it, and despite the odd diva moment, he competed up to medium and qualified for the dressage to music finals at the British Dressage regionals,” adds Linda, who notes that Cello has been under the guidance of many trainers, including Richard Hayward and Michael Eilberg, over the years. “Cello definitely did act like a showjumper at times, though, often spooking when he’d see a table covered with a white cloth over it. Richard said to me that if that table had been presented as a jump, he would have cleared it with no questions asked!

“When we felt Cello had gone as far as he could go in the dressage arena, we decided that he needed a retirement home of sorts, but that he wasn’t ready to give up competition completely. He’s a really good looking horse, so we approached Liz to see if she was possibly looking for a horse to show.”

Liz took up Cello’s reins last year and with help from side saddle instructor Fran Penn, Cello was introduced to being ridden sideways.

“He was brought on very slowly, and they took their time with him,” explains Linda. “He’s got a huge team around him, and he’s had a lot of help along the way. He still looks so divine, and despite being a challenging horse, we’ve found the key to him now; ahead of him going into the ring he has to be worked like he’s about to do a dressage test. He’s trotted around to get him focused and put straight into the class without giving him time to think or have a chat to any other horses. We’re delighted with his results, and we’re now looking ahead to the National Side Saddle Association championships later in the season.

“Results aside, he’s a lovely horse to have around and he’s completely trustworthy. While he’s definitely not a novice ride, he’ll always give you that extra inch of effort, and if he has the right rider sitting on him, he’s the ultimate schoolmaster.”

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‘He give it 100% every time’: third RIHS win in three years for consistent show horse

Alex Robinson — Sat, 29 Jul 2023 15:54:43 +0000

An exceptional grey gelding won his third Royal International Horse Show (RIHS) title in as many years, as he trotted off with the RIHS ladies’ hunter championship for the second time.

Alice Homer, 21, was in the saddle of Liz Prowting’s middleweight hunter campaigner Bloomfield Eloquence (James) to maintain their spot at the top of the line-up throughout the class in front of judges Esther Rostron (ride) and Brigit Ensten (conformation).

Alice and James, who is by Watermill Swatch, headed a super-strong class of 29 entries to repeat the exact result they achieved here in 2021, the same year they finished as runner up in the ladies’ final at the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS).

Last season, James won the middleweight hunter final under Alice’s mother Loraine Homer, the pair going on to secure the same class victory at HOYS just two months later.

“He felt like the winner from the moment he walked in the ring,” said Alice. “He really had his A-game on. He has been such a good horse over so many years, and he comes out like such a showman each time; I really do owe him a lot. He never gets complacent, even in the side saddle, where he is required to wait for me and be so polite. He’s had to gallop up that Hickstead hill so many times now, and he give it 100% every time.

“Today, he also gave the judge a brilliant ride, and she rode him beautifully.”

Alice has been on fine form all week, also finishing second in the heavyweight hunter final on Liz Prowting’s recent Great Yorkshire novice hero Bloomfield Distinction, who was making his first appearance at Hickstead.

Second place in the RIHS ladies’ hunter championship was Olivia Edmondson riding her own Willowcroft Regal Bronze nine-year-old Double Mocha.

‘He was larger than life’: farewell to adored ‘Cow Pony’

Alex Robinson — Sun, 18 Jun 2023 19:51:47 +0000

Popular coloured horse Oaklawn Gypsy, known for his results as a side-saddle ride, has died aged 22.

Oaklawn Gypsy, who was known as Bertie at home and as ‘The Cow Pony’ to his fan club on the circuit, was owned, home-produced and ridden by Chloe Marsh for the duration of his career.

Chloe owned Bertie for 16 years. She bought him in 2007.

“He was my first ever horse and neither of us had any experience; even the lady who sold him to me thought it wasn’t a great idea for me to buy him,” explained Chloe, of the gelding who was bred in Ireland. “Many of the riders on my yard rode at our local show, Leicestershire County, and it was my ambition to follow in their footsteps and join them at the show one day. Exactly a year after I bought him, Bertie went to the show and took supreme. It was a dream come true and he’d introduced me to a completely different world.”

After various successes on the Pony Club and county show circuit, including appearances at the British Riding Clubs national championships, Bertie was started in a side-saddle.

“Someone said that he’d look good as a ladies’ horse, in passing comment, so I went to see Emma Brown, now one of my closest friends, to try him in a side-saddle,” Chloe said. “It felt like everything in his life had been leading up to his side-saddle career. He had an arrogance about him; as he was a coloured, people would look at him differently, and he loved that element of it. When you looked at Bertie, you always noticed that the others didn’t look like him at all!”

Chloe and Bertie, a former H&H hunter of a lifetime, hunted side-saddle alongside showing and representing the Side Saddle Association (SSA) in their display team. In 2015, they represented the British team at Aachen CHIO.

“He was only 15hh, which was very tiny compared to other side-saddle horses,” said Chloe, who was also second at Royal Windsor and won at the NCPA pony of the year show aboard Bertie. “My highlight with him was winning the rider of the year title at the SSA championships. We’d been reserve before, and I knew he felt like he had to prove everyone wrong and go one better. That was his motto his whole life.

“Bertie has been with me on every journey; he came to university with me and he was even at my wedding.”

Bertie bowed out from competition two years ago at the SSA championships, after a performance to Grease in the Carro Cripps dressage to music competition. He won with 89%.

“It was a completely unplanned retirement,” Chloe reflected. “But the audience were going crazy and he was in his absolute element that I decided that if it wasn’t to be now, then when? The commentator made a lovely speech about all his achievements, from memory. He still did displays and he loved going to game shows as it combined his two favourite things, following the hounds and being a showman.

“He always had a look in his eye and while he was so quiet at home, he had a sense of humour and bags of personality. He was larger than life and he was simply the best.

“I have been overwhelmed by the amount of messages and comments from his fan club.”

When asked how Bertie’s stage name ‘The Cow Pony’ came to be, Chloe explained: “A dear friend who has now sadly passed away gave him the name. She used to refer to him as the dairy cow, and so when I decided to set up a Facebook page for him I named it The Cow Pony. And it’s just stuck. I’m now married to a dairy farmer and on the odd occasion when Bertie got in with the cows it always took us a while to find him!”

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Side-saddle rider and multi-talented gelding cut elegant picture at Winter Dressage Championships

Lucy Elder — Fri, 21 Apr 2023 15:00:49 +0000

Jade Paterson and Harry’s Hunter were a picture of elegance as they competed side-saddle in their Petplan Equine Area Festival final class at the NAF Five Star Winter Dressage Championships.

The versatile 17.1hh gelding, known affectionately as “H”, is excelling both between the white boards and in heavyweight hunter, amateur classes and as a ladies’ ride in the show ring.

He has competed at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) as a heavyweight hunter and side-saddle, scored ribbons at the Royal International Horse Show (RIHS) and this week, was competing in the elementary silver Area Festival final.

Their appearance at Hartpury was made all the more special as it was owner Alastair Finlay’s wife, Louisa’s birthday and she flew in from work in Barcelona to watch their special horse.

“He is just lovely, he tries really hard,” said Jade, who scored 64.31% with the 10-year-old gelding. “We had a couple of little mistakes but I think without my right leg sometimes we just have a little miscommunication.

“We had a little canter in one of the corners, because he is waiting to see what we’re going to do and if I’m not 100% on it sometimes he just offers me what he thinks is the right answer, which is lovely because he wants to do well.

“For an elementary silver under side-saddle and his first time being at Hartpury, he did really well. I was chuffed with him.”

It was Alastair who first suggested Jade give side-saddle a try a little over a year ago.

“I was riding the horse for Alastair on the flat, because he was getting a new hip, and one day in February he said, ‘Why don’t we give side-saddle ago?’ she said.

“The next thing, Alastair had a saddle over from Ireland, then we were on and off we went. Caroline Maclean Nelson comes regularly – she really helped us get going with the showing – and we train with Penny Clark when she’s in Scotland as well.

“Within a year, we have gone from not knowing anything to riding most of H’s dressage tests and a lot of the big showing shows side-saddle.”

Jade is part of the area nine Side Saddle Association committee and encourages “everyone to give it a go”.

She was the only competitor riding side-saddle at Hartpury and explained how well H has adapted to the different style of riding, as well as the specific aids she uses to ask for lateral movements.

“He goes well on the flat anyway, so it’s a case of making sure I can ride off my seat,” said Jade.

“The cane that I use is a replacement for my leg, rather than being used as a whip, so it’s the pressure from the cane that asks him move over, and when I turn I’ve got to make sure my seat is in the right place so he knows where we’re going.”

Their aim for this season are return trips to HOYS and the RIHS, plus a step up to medium dressage with advanced medium on their radar for the winter.

“And music – especially after watching all the music classes here,” said Jade. “Alastair loves his 80s music, so we will be going down that route hopefully!”

20-year-old former hunter survives colic surgery to take dressage title side-saddle

Eleanor Jones — Sun, 20 Nov 2022 19:51:42 +0000

A 20-year-old former hunt horse who has survived colic surgery and is trained in an orchard took the British Dressage (BD) Associated Championships veterans’ prelim title – ridden side-saddle.

Lois Seymour and her own Diorissimo (Dylan) scored 73% to beat all comers at Vale View (9-13 November), two years after vets thought he would have to be put down as he was suffering from strangulating lipoma, type of colic caused when a fatty tumour gets wrapped around some of the small intestine.

“That makes it even more special,” Lois said. “It was surgery or put him down. Some vets might say not to do the surgery as he was an older horse but he had so much life still in him. He had the emergency surgery, and 10 months later, he was at the side-saddle championships, and he won the veteran championship. He made it back.”

Lois bought the part-bred Hanoverian gelding six years ago; she was looking for a horse with whom to regain her confidence after a nasty accident.

“I was looking for something about 15.2hh and about 10, and I ended up with a 16.2hh 14-year-old!” she said. “But they say the right horse finds you. He was dressage-bred but had been a hunting horse and he was being sold by the rider’s husband, who I don’t think really knew what he had.

“I just looked at him and thought ‘You’re a bit special’, and I was right.”

Lois, who keeps Dylan at home with no arena, so schools in an orchard nearby, rides astride as well as side-saddle and this has been the combination’s first year of affiliated dressage since the surgery.

“You can do BD side-saddle, as long as you check the secretary and judge are happy, and it’s a really good way of showing that you can still teach veterans new tricks!” Lois said.

“He’s a complete gentleman. I’m a disabled rider and riding is my physiotherapy, and he’s a complete saint for looking after me. He has got his diva side but I think he loves being a side-saddle horse because it makes people look at him and think he’s pretty.

“I thought there were some bits in my [championship] test that felt fantastic; one spooky moment too but the marks averaged out and it shows one movement is just one movement.

“I was so proud of him; to get that high a score at a national finals is incredible.”

‘She always knew exactly what I was thinking’: farewell to the most consistent show mare of recent times

Alex Robinson — Thu, 17 Nov 2022 17:17:07 +0000

Georgina and Nicola Wilkes’ adored show mare Mexican Summer has been put down aged 14 after a bout of colic.

During her career Mexican Summer, who was known as Mexi at home, competed at top level as an intermediate, a small show hunter and a ladies’ ride.

She won at both Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) and the Royal International (RIHS) in ladies’ ranks and she also stood second as a small hunter at both major championships. In 2018, she took the intermediate show hunter of the year title at HOYS with Miranda Wallace, and in 2021 she was second in the same class with Gary Parr.

Mexican Summer was by Ramexico and bred by Cornwall-based Lyn Harris. The thoroughbred stallion Bandmaster also featured in her bloodlines, and her great granddam was a small chestnut pony named Megan.

“We just fell in love with her,” said Georgina. “As she was in Cornwall and we were in Norfolk, my friend Lisa Davey, who is also based in Cornwall, said she’d go to a local show to view Mexi for us. She’d never been to a show before but Lisa gave her approval and said she was so well behaved. We bought her and picked her up from a transporter at Rossdales Equine Hospital and thankfully we were very happy with our purchase; she was stunning.”

Georgina said that from the very beginning of their partnership, Mexi was “a pleasure to do” and she “picked everything up easily.”

“During her first season she had a few cheeky bucks in her gallops, which kept a couple of wins away from her, though she was working show horse champion at the British Show Horse Association (BSHA) championships,” Georgina said. “She loved jumping and she was so honest and brave.”

“Her side-saddle career started randomly,” Georgina added. “Carol Gilbert Scott brought us a side-saddle for us to try while at Arena UK. We popped it on Mexi and I jumped on her and rode her to the other side of the showground. Mexi didn’t notice any difference and the following week we entered our first HOYS ladies’ qualifier at the Festival of Hunting. My friend Dale Atkinson made sure we were all tacked up correctly and while we were completely chucking ourselves in at the deep end, we won and qualified!”

While Mexi won accolades at all major shows, including Royal Windsor, the national side-saddle championships, the BSPS championships, Midland Counties, Lincolnshire and the BSHA national championships, among others, she always struggled to contain herself at Georgina and Nicola’s local show, Royal Norfolk.

“She was always so excited at our local show,” Georgina said. “She was the easiest horse I’ve ever had and she never needed any working in; I would just wander around chatting to people and we’d have a quick canter before going into the ring. She would always get very excited going back to the stable or to the lorry, opting to scream at her friends. She had a best friend in my Welsh section D and if they were ever in neighbouring rings they’d neigh at each other.

“She had an amazing career and she has given us so much. Alongside showing, her favourite thing to do was to go to the beach and she’d always go into the sea.”

Last Christmas, Mexi underwent emergency colic surgery and Georgina was unsure whether she would come back for the 2022 season. But Mexi returned to the show ring with a bang and her final show was HOYS, where she lifted the ladies’ show horse of the year title, providing Georgina with a dream ride in the horse supreme. During the week she was also second in the small hunter of the year final and took third in the intermediate show hunter class with Sophie Beaumont.

“We weren’t even sure if this season would be possible,” Georgina said. “I don’t think I’ll ever find another horse like her; she always knew exactly what I was thinking at any moment. She loved a supreme and she always went perfectly. I never had to think what I was going to do; Mexi just took me round and did whatever I decided to do on the spot.”

‘Today she was exceptional’: mare lifts HOYS ladies’ sash at final show before retirement

Tricia Johnson — Wed, 05 Oct 2022 14:52:16 +0000

Mexican Summer, beautifully ridden by owner Georgina Wilkes, provided a fairytale result in the first showing class, the Mears Flooring HOYS ladies’ show horse final, in the Andrews Bowen international arena this morning at the 2022 Horse of the Year Show (HOYS).

The ever-mannerly 14-year-old, appearing at her last show before retiring to the maternity wing, glided round as if on oiled wheels, ears pricked throughout, to head the 17-strong HOYS ladies’ show horse class under judges Michaela Bowling (ride) and Kathy Bowdler (conformation).

“She never put a foot out of place,” said Michaela, who awarded the mare her highest ride mark. “She went mega.”

Kathy agreed. “She caught our eye from the moment she came into the ring,” she said. “She just owned it throughout.”

The top two horses were close, though, and second spot went to one of the few cobs forward, Guy Mears’ handsome grey, Brookdale Limited Edition, who looked to give producer/jockey Danielle Heath a super-comfy ride.

“There was very little to choose between them,” agreed Michaela and Kathy. “It could have gone either way.”

Third place went to another side saddle “regular,” Lucinda Martin, this time with Sam Powell’s upstanding seven-year-old Bloomfield Greystones.

“Mexi,” a daughter of the prolific sire Ramexico, has been with the Wilkes family throughout, but until today, the top spot in this class had eluded her — her best previous result was second in 2018.

She also contests intermediates and small hunters successfully, and is due to appear in both these guises later in the week — Georgina will take the hunter ride and Sophie Beaumont contests the intermediates.

“She’s always easy, but today she was exceptional,” said a beaming Georgina, for whom it was a first HOYS win. “She just had that bit of extra pizazz. She’s so laid-back too — she hadn’t had a side saddle on for two months before today, but she just had 10 minutes’ warm-up and in we went.”

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‘It was touching’: top rider comes to the rescue when amateur’s stirrup snaps moments before supreme

Alex Robinson — Sat, 01 Oct 2022 20:02:52 +0000

When Robyn Butler was just moments from stepping into the amateur supreme championship at Wiltshire autumn show (24 September) she was panicked and horrified in equal measures when the stirrup on her vintage side saddle suddenly snapped beneath her.

However, thanks to a generous showing producer, who is no stranger to success sitting aside herself, Robyn was able to contend the supreme final with her Irish Draught Carrabawn Francis (Chunky).

Robyn, who works as the hospitality coordinator for Wincanton and Exeter racecourse, had placed third in the Royal International (RIHS) ladies’ hunter class that morning, being the highest placed amateur combination. Consequently, they booked themselves into the amateur supreme held in the evening performance.

“This was only our fifth side saddle class and I’m still a newbie to riding sideways,” said Robyn, who has been partnered with 14-year-old Chunky for four years.

The stitching on Robyn’s stirrup had completely come away (Image credit: creditUnknown)

“Just minutes before we were due to go into the supreme, I shuffled in my saddle and as I put all my weight into my left stirrup, it snapped; the stitching had completely gone. I panicked and thought that was it for Chunky and I.”

Earlier in the day, Robyn had watched show horse producer Lynn Russell ride in one of the side saddle classes at the show. Thankfully, Lynn had not yet left the show ground at the time of the amateur supreme.

“Side saddles have different fastenings for the stirrup, so finding another was always going to be a gamble,” continued Robyn. “I noticed Lynn’s lorry had not yet left the venue, so we rushed to find her. We managed to catch her and she lent us a stirrup so we could still compete in the class. Thankfully it had the same fitting despite it being far too long.

“Unfortunately, it wasn’t the fairy tale ending of winning but Chunky performed a beautiful show considering the challenge of a too long stirrup being used by a not very experienced side saddle rider.

“I owe a huge thank you to Lynn for helping an amateur like me have fun in an evening performance. As an amateur, I always look up to the pros and I aspire to be like them, so for one of the best in the business to help me out like that was really touching.”

‘I’ll go faster next year!’ 69-year-old rider takes on side-saddle race on part-Connemara

Eleanor Jones — Tue, 25 Jan 2022 17:27:58 +0000

A rider who took on her first race at a point-to-point aged 69, side-saddle on her part-bred Connemara, said she wants to do it again — and will go faster next time.

Belinda Wilkins and Mystical Maisie finished the side-saddle dash in style at the Royal Artillery at Larkhill meeting on 22 January.

Belinda told H&H she and Maisie had “never got out of a slow canter” in the side-saddle, until four weeks ago.

“I was told last October they’d be running a dash at this meeting and I immediately said ‘I’m going to do it’,” she said. “I thought it was a bit of a tall order but had it in my mind all the time, then two weeks before, said ‘I’m going to put my entry in’.

“That’s when I told my daughter and I think it was all a bit much for her to cope with. My answer was ‘I’ll just do the training’, and each day I posted on Facebook what we’d been doing, including beach rides, and my daughter could see my progression and that I was in control and there was no stopping me. I knew perfectly well I was going to enter, all along.”

Belinda, who has ridden since childhood, comes from a line of side-saddle riders; her mother took part in a side-saddle display at Olympia, her grandmother and great-grandmother both hunted side-saddle and her great-great-grandmother’s riding habit is in a museum.

Belinda’s daughter, Caroline Wilkins, is also accomplished, appearing in Downton Abbey hunting side-saddle and taking part in a display at the 2015 European Dressage Championships in Aachen.

“I had all these pictures of all of them and then a gap for me!” Belinda said. “I had a go about 20 years ago and felt so uncomfortable, I gave it a miss.”

She then tried again, on a horse of Caroline’s, but it was only when she was loaned one who was “more suitable” that Belinda “suddenly realised I quite enjoyed it”.

She and Maisie, who is now 13, have since done more together.

“I bought her as a hunter but she’s turned out to be brilliant at everything,” Belinda said. “We’re going arena eventing next weekend, then out with the Beaufort the next. We mainly go astride; I did go to the opening meet side-saddle but then did a quick swap after we moved off, but I think I can manage a bit more than the meet so I’m going out next month and will do an hour or so.”

Belinda added that the side-saddle dashes; this one at seven furlongs and run for charity, are “good for someone like me who isn’t ready for the big fences in some of the races”.

“Or I don’t think my family would let me!” she said. “My daughter was a bit worried to have her mother gallivanting across country on my whizzy little horse; they were worried she’d take off but I’d been training her out hunting to stay behind when the others took off.”

There were some anxious moments on the day of the race; the M27 was closed en route, and Belinda’s husband Miles had a “terrible panic” when it was announced that another rider had fallen during the race. But Belinda and Maisie held their nerve to finish third.

“It felt like sailing; that feeling when you get to the crest of the wave and are planing,” she said. “I felt like I was floating, sailing along with the wind. It was sensational.”

Some other unplanned moments came when the horses spotted the fallen rider, who was not hurt.

“I get puffed out easily and didn’t want not to get to the finish line so I went off at about 15mph,” Belinda said. “The racehorses just went; they said ‘go’ and within about three seconds, I couldn’t see them. I thought I could catch the girl in front but couldn’t get closer so I thought I’d just enjoy it. Then the girl in front’s horse spooked at the poor rider who had fallen. A Range Rover was coming over to her for first aid and I wondered if I should slow up to let them go in front of me but thought ‘No, no jockey slows up for anyone!’”

Having pulled up after the finish line, not without some difficulty, it did not take long for Belinda to start planning her next dash.

She plans to carry a whip next time, as side-saddle riders use to give aids on their non-leg side, as Maisie drifted away from the crowd somewhat.

“I could have gone faster, and I will do next time!” she said, adding that she wants to take 30 seconds off her time at the same race next year. “But I wanted to complete it and still be in control, and Maisie loved it.

“My family were so pleased, and my son brought his two little girls, who are six and three and learning to ride side-saddle too, so we’ve got the next generation coming along as well.”

#SundaySchool: how to ride side-saddle

Gemma Redrup — Sun, 24 Oct 2021 18:32:00 +0000

Leading show horse producer Jayne Ross gives her advice on how to get the best out of a horse when riding sideways

Jayne has won the supreme titles at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) and Royal International (RIHS) countless times. In 2018, she won the supreme HOYS title aboard the ladies’ show horse winner, Time 2 Reflect. She has also evented at advanced level and represented Britain in combined training, as well as training 48 point-to-point winners. Here she shares her advice on how to ride side-saddle.

Training the stars

My first HOYS win on a side-saddle horse was in 1994 riding Norman Swallow’s Sudden Flight. He was also successful as a lightweight hunter and was a fantastic ride astride. He was level, so I knew he would carry a side-saddle. He took to it immediately and was perfect.

As much as you can teach the right way to ride side saddle, the rider has to feel secure and at ease. However, there are certain key rules to follow on how to ride in order to not disturb the horse’s centre of balance and equilibrium.

How to ride side-saddle

1. Before you begin, it’s important to seek expert guidance on the fitting of a side-saddle as this is not as straightforward as you might think. Horses react in different ways to saddles that might be pinching across their withers or sitting unlevel on their backs.

2. The most important thing is harmony between horse and rider in all paces. The least amount of rider influence is likely to enhance that. It’s important that you are sitting straight in the saddle. Your hips must be level with your horse’s ears — as they would be astride — and it’s imperative to keep your right shoulder up and back.

3. One major problem riders tend to have is a collapsing left hip, which consequently means you’re putting more weight on the left side, forcing your horse to fall in. Ensure you stay sitting straight in the saddle to help your horse stay straight and balanced.

4. The stirrup should not be so short that it makes you feel jammed under the lower pommel. You should be able to put a flat hand between it and the top of your leg. This allows you to keep your weight down into the stirrup, too.

5. One of the tricks I was taught when learning is to feel as if you’re trying to put your right heel against your left shin. This makes you point the toes on your right foot down and draws you into the leaping head (top pommel), which helps you feel more secure.

Things to consider

As children, we were taught to hold our right hand straight down by our sides and the left hand up in a normal position, but I feel this makes you drop your right shoulder too much. I have always felt it easier to keep my hands up and level in front of me.
Make sure your whip — which is always carried in your right hand and is in effect used as your right leg — is of a suitable length to use without you moving your hands. The noise of tapping the saddle is usually enough to encourage your horse forward.
Allow your horse to absorb your weight. You should sit tall — but softly — in the saddle. The more level and forward going your horse is, the more likely you are to be able to keep him straight.

‘You can just sit on and enjoy the ride’: Foot-perfect performance secures ladies’ title at HOYS

Tricia Johnson — Thu, 07 Oct 2021 06:32:31 +0000

AN impeccable performance from both horse and rider was rewarded when side saddle specialist Francoise Babington successfully defended her Mears Flooring ladies’ show horse of the year title at the 2021 Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) with the super-elegant Seabourne Silent Valley (Marvin).

A strong field of 20 produced a great competition to open this year’s long-awaited show in the Andrews Bowen arena on Wednesday morning, and a fascinating mix of both experienced animals as well as some relative newcomers to the genre provided a truly absorbing spectacle.

Marvin, now 12, was foot-perfect for both Francoise — who works full time in her family’s business — and ride judge Jo Hales, who commented: “He was the sort of horse you can just sit on and enjoy the ride; he was very straight, balanced and responsive.

“I had some beautiful rides in the class and two were exceptional. However sadly, quite a few of the saddles weren’t quite balanced for me so I couldn’t sit as straight as I would have liked to — this made it very hard to get the best out of some horses.”

Marvin has already hit the heights this season, having won the ladies’ class at Lincoln, Houghton Hall and Stoneleigh, and stood champion hunter at Area 16.

“He was a total star today,” said a delighted Francoise. “I was hoping for a good result here as he loves the arena and always looks his best at this time of year under the lights. However the class is so strong now, with so many different types in it, that you never know what the judges might go for!”

For runner-up Alice Homer, 18, it was almost a remarkable double as her partner Bloomfield Eloquence — another hunter — won the equivalent class at this year’s Royal International. It was following family fortunes too, as Alice’s mother, Loraine, won here on Jonas O’Shannon in 2011.

“It was my horse’s first time here so we didn’t really know what he’d make of it,” said Alice. “He’s only seven and very young for a ladies’ horse, so I’m thrilled with this!”

The ever-cheerful mare, Mexican Summer, put up yet another classic performance to take third for long-time rider/producer Georgina Wilkes.

Tales from Tokyo: side-saddle rider Barbara Minneci – ‘this would have been the most beautiful Games ever’

Lucy Elder — Sun, 29 Aug 2021 08:52:46 +0000

Double European bronze medal-winning side-saddle rider Barbara Minneci caught the eye of many watching the Tokyo Paralympics for her elegant performances.

The Belgian rider, who scored two top-10 individual placings at London 2012 and also competed at Rio 2016, made her mark in Tokyo with two +70% scores and a place in the freestyle aboard the chestnut gelding Stuart.

“I’m really pleased with the horse,” said Barbara, speaking after her grade III individual test on Friday (27 August), where she finished sixth on a score of 70.83% and bagged a place in the freestyle.

“He was supporting me and he is really good with the warm [conditions], which makes it easy for me because he’s forward and willing.

“I had some mistakes but really my mistakes. He was really with me. It was a pleasure to ride him in this beautiful arena, I was so happy.

“The highlight was when I went in and felt that my horse was with me. I just knew [then] that it would be a nice test and then I was just enjoying and trying to breathe. The whole test for me was really enjoyable.”

She adds: “It really is a wonderful arena and the organisation is great. I’m really happy to be here in Japan, and I’m really sorry for Japan that we have this Covid situation, because I think it would have been the most beautiful Games ever.”

Cancer resulted in the paralysis of Barbara’s left leg and muscle loss in her right some 20 years ago, and riding side-saddle enabled her to get back on a horse.

Barbara sourced “Stewie” (Sir Donnerhall x Diamond Hit) in Germany as an eight-year-old, with his forward going nature and solid foundation of classical training exactly what she was looking for.

“When I first got him, he was a little bit spooky because he did not have so much competition experience,” she said.

“When I went to my first competition in Gothenburg with him I didn’t get to the end of the arena! And here he is now, bringing me everywhere.”

The pair scored 72.27% in the team test on Saturday (28 August), to set Belgium off to a strong start with the last two team members still to ride tonight (Sunday, 29 August).

Road to HOYS: Rider who broke both elbows in fall to still get her dream ride at the NEC

Alex Robinson — Wed, 25 Aug 2021 18:32:38 +0000

Rose Sinclair-James had dreamt of riding at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) for as long as she can remember, and with a stunning new horse to ride, she thought 2021 could be her year.

However, at the start of the season Rose had a rotational fall across country while out eventing, breaking both her elbows in the process.

Rose bought her chestnut ladies’ contender Cloneyhea Clancy in October 2019.

“My mum, Kay, couldn’t come with me to view him over in Ireland so I went alone,” says Rose. “I got to Clancy at 11pm and by midnight I was riding him under the lights. I fell in love with him, we agreed the sale and I made the journey back home to Wales.

“In the coming days, my house sale fell through, meaning I no longer had the funds to buy my dream horse. My non-horsey grandmother, Sonia, saw how devastated I was, and both her and mum pulled together to ensure Clancy became part of the family.”

Covid struck and Rose’s plans were put on hold.

“We used this to our advantage and had fun with no pressure,” she continues. “We started off the 2021 season with great hope, placing well in our first HOYS ladies’ qualifier. Then the weekend after, my world came crashing down, quite literally, when I had the fall with my old event horse.

“Having never broken a bone in my life, I was shocked and gutted beyond words, and it really got me down. I was so disappointed that I would be losing yet another season with Clancy.”

At the time, Simon and Natalie Reynolds were producing Rose and Kay’s lightweight hunter Under Attack. Witnessing Rose’s situation, the pair offered to produce Clancy for the rest of the qualifying season.

“I was completely shell shocked by their offer and couldn’t believe my luck,” says Rose. “Fast forward six weeks, and with the help of the super-talented Faye Ludlow, who very kindly took over the reins in my absence, it happened. They won the HOYS qualifier at Stoneleigh. I had made the 10-hour round trip to watch and it was so, so worth it; it really was the best day with the best people.

“I really can’t thank Simon, Natalie and Faye enough for all they’ve done for me. They made what had the potential to be the worst year, the absolute best! This will be my first ride at HOYS and against all the odds, and all being well, Clancy and I will be riding through those magic curtains into the International Arena at HOYS.

“I will love every single second and remember just how lucky and fortunate I am to be there, as we all are. I will never forget the kindness shown to us this year; it really is showing at its best.”

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(Image credit: 1st Class Images)

Do you dare? Drag hunt launches side-saddle scurry

Sarah Radford — Mon, 07 Jun 2021 10:49:41 +0000

Daring side-saddle enthusiasts are being invited to enter a newly launched hunt scurry that will take place over a 2.5-mile course this autumn.

The Staff College Drag Hunt, based at Sandhurst, Berks, is organising the race, which will also feature an open (astride) and a junior class.

“The last two seasons have been a bit of a disaster for hunts, with terrible weather followed by Covid, so we are working hard to fundraise,” said organiser Rebecca Hathaway-White, who has hunted side-saddle for the past 12 years.

“I wanted to see something aimed at side-saddlers as well as catering for the astride rider as we have a fantastic following of both ladies and gents who regularly follow the hunt tackling both hedges and timber with huge amounts of style throughout the season. So with this in mind we decided to run a hunt scurry and have put together a really jumpable course.”

The scurry is due to take place at Loddon Court Farm on 12 September, over a course made up of natural timber fences and hedges, and numbers will be restricted to 15 entries per class.

Continues below…

(Image credit: NICOLA_COFFEY@COFFEYSHOTS)

Side-saddle 6’8” high jump world record finally gets official recognition

Guinness World Records has officially recognised Susan Oakes’ side-saddle high jump world record of 6’8”

(Image credit: NICOLA_COFFEY@COFFEYSHOTS)

‘I’ve got the balls’: rider set to jump stallion bareback and in the buff

“My crown jewels will take a hammering to save other people’s crown jewels”

(Image credit: NICOLA_COFFEY@COFFEYSHOTS)

Side-saddlers already on the entries list include Bruce Langley-McKim, who will be riding his Cleveland Bay stallion Pembridge Justice, and Roger Edmunds, who previously garnered attention for hunting in a side-saddle while his leg was in a plaster cast.

The schedule will also include a 90cm inter-hunt relay, open to teams from hunts, Pony Club branches or riding clubs.

Further details and information on how to enter can be found on the Staff College Drag Hunt website.

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

‘I was like a sponge’ — show producer Jo Bates on her dressage career and the mentor who set her on a path to glory

Alex Robinson — Sat, 03 Apr 2021 15:24:03 +0000

Before she came became one of the county’s leading showing producers, Jo Bates found favour — and results — between the white boards.

“I started my riding career on a little dun lead rein pony,” says Jo, when she chatted to H&H’s showing editor Alex Robinson on episode 44 of The Horse & Hound podcast.

“We had great fun with her. Dad used to lead me; he would be all dressed in his tweed and trilby hat. He would make me do round the world at the end of every show, not just one way but both, so I had that down to a tee.”

After competing on show ponies during her childhood, Jo then forayed into the dressage arena for sometime. She became one of the top young riders in the country and was crowned junior dressage champion in 1978, aboard Scotch Royale.

“He was a 15hh bay gelding who we bought from the Countess of March,” continues Jo, who was introduced to the versatile horse by legendary horsewoman Jennie Loriston-Clarke, who Jo has known since she was 10 years old.

“I used to go and stay with Jennie during the holidays and that’s how I got so into the dressage. I would just sit and watch her. I was like a sponge — I’d just soak it all up.

“Scotch Royale was a great horse to learn on. He was amazing; he took me to two European championships. He knew all the moves and he was very, very patient with me.

“We didn’t have a manège back then, just a field with one post-and-rail fence, so I would go backwards and forwards practicing my half passes and changes. Scotch Royale’s party trick was passage. He must have been so bored with me practicing all the time, but he really did teach me everything.”

The Europeans was an amazing experience for Jo and her mentor, Jennie, was a massive supporter of her during this time:

“Jennie is an awesome lady,” Jo continues. “I have the utmost admiration for her. I always told my parents that if anything happened to them I want to be adopted by Jennie. No task was ever too small for her. She is very inspirational and I couldn’t say anything more highly about her.”

Prior to his dressage successes, Scotch Royale was a star of the show ring, landing the inaugural side-saddle rider of the year accolade for 14-year-old Jo in 1976. The pair returned the following year to re-claim the title. At the time, the final was held at Hickstead.

“I had no idea of the magnitude of riding in the big arena at Hickstead,” says Jo, when reflecting on this early win. “I had no idea it was so sought after. That was my first go in there, and I still have the sashes in my tack room.”

To hear more about Jo’s past horses — including 2002 RIHS supreme champion Broadstone Dee — and many more listen here to episode 44 of The Horse & Hound podcast or search “The Horse & Hound Podcast” in your favourite podcast app.

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Side-saddle 6’8” high jump world record finally gets official recognition

Lucy Elder — Tue, 03 Nov 2020 06:43:46 +0000

The side-saddle high jump world record has been officially recognised, seven years after Ireland’s Susan Oakes achieved the phenomenal feat.

Susan cleared a 6’8” (2.03m) puissance wall on her stallion SIEC Atlas at the Equestrian Sports Training Facility in Blanchardstown, near Dublin, on 24 October 2013.

She had contacted Guinness World Records in 2012 to tell them of her plans for the world record attempt, but had been told it only recognises the greatest height cleared by a horse, not whether they were ridden astride or sideways.

“I had a phone call about seven weeks ago out of the blue from the Guinness World Records to say they’ve been following me for the last seven years,” Susan told H&H today (2 November).

“I had no idea! They’d seen the support that the record had received and over the last year they’ve come up with a category, which is a lengthy process and involves bringing a team on board to create it. It’s unbelievable recognition for the equestrian world as a whole, aside from just side-saddle.”

I am proud to announce that I am the official Guinness World Records Title Holder for the highest jump by a horse ridden side saddle.Back in 2011 I decided to try beat an unofficial record of jumping 6'6ft by a Australian lady after seeing a pic of her jumping. I made my crazy ambition public. I was then a blank canvas, no showjumping horse, no showjumping trainer, only a Dream.In reflection I thought how hard could this be…, I'll have this achieved in a few months. Well the reality was very different, 2 yrs training, 5 days a week, many horses, many life lessons, over 40 side saddles later. The attempt was scheduled for the 24th Oct 2013, I was at the bottom of the barrel mentally, physically and financially.In 2012 I contacted the Guinness World Records to see if they would verify my record but unfortunately they only had a category for The Horse that jumps the highest, whether is ridden by man woman or child, frontwards or backwards. The Record is still held today by Captain Alberto Larraguibel on Huaso in Chile in 1949. The news was disappointing but at this stage I was to involved in my vision to back out. On the 24th October 2013 I had videographer, photographers, FEI officials, HSI officials & personal friends present to witness my attempts. I had only got the right side saddle 2 weeks before, finding the right saddle was a major struggle. I needed a saddle that was short and light so my horses could release behind and for me I needed a saddle that had not much support as I was relying on my balance and core to keep me in the plate, a real balancing act!On the day I rode SIEC Atlas over the wall, this horse had jumped to the top level internationally and was the ultimate schoolmaster. He fed me confidence and I fed him bravery. We jumped a few walls before the big one. The relief of landing clear over 6'8ft was and still is indescribable. The horse threw his heart over, followed by his body and all I had to do was give him encouragement and hang on.Then I mounted SIEC Oberon to attempt 6'5ft over the triple bar. To date this is the most difficult thing so far in my life I have ever attempted. I had to dig deep mentally but my trusty steed had to do so much more!Hindsight.. I can now see how crazy it was riding 2 completely different horses over 2 completely different jumps and to do it on the same day was extremely ambitious to say the least.6 weeks ago out of the blue I was contacted by The Guinness World Records to say they would like to verify and recognise my record as it had recieved so much support & attention worldwide. I had to supply alot of footage that they required over the last few weeks, I had to go back & revisit & relive many many memories. Today I am delighted to make this official announcement that I am a Guinness World Records Title Holder. For me it's the equivalent of Olympic Gold. I want to own it, cherish it and celebrate it!None of this would of been possible with out the grass roots of hunting & point to pointing which kept me brave and fit. All the amazing horses that have carried me over many obstacles & terrain. Finally to the support I have recieved from far and wide, Thank You! I am extremely grateful & humbled for all the support I recieve no matter what equestrian endeavor I take on."Dream your Painting, then Paint your Dream"…#guinnessworldrecord #guinnessworldrecords #history #female #womanempowerment #officiallyamazing #showjumping#jump#horse#highjump#irish#ireland#worldrecord #dream#sidesaddle#gratitude #imagination #inspiration #puissance #equestrian#sportsnews#irishnewsphoto credits Nicola Coffeyvideo credits Fiona ThompsonPosted by Susan Oakes on Friday, October 23, 2020

They asked Susan to send letters, photographs, videos and witness statements to verify her record.

“I had to go back seven years and find everything, to relive and revisit all those memories,” she said.

She sent everything off and a week later received the official letter to say it had been recognised.

“Normally you would be able to go to London and be presented with it, but because of Covid it arrived in the post,” she added.

Susan said she remembers the “tunnel vision” she had at the time when the record was a dream and all she could think about achieving.

“On that day in 2013, I knew I had everything set up perfectly and I knew that if I did it that day, I did it and if I didn’t, I would walk away,” she said.

Susan, who hails from a hunting and point-to-pointing background, not only cleared the 6’8” puissance wall, but then swapped horses to clear a 6’5” triple bar aboard SIEC Oberon.

“They were two wonderful horses who really jumped their hearts out for me,” she added.

Article continues below…

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(Image credit: NICOLA_COFFEY@COFFEYSHOTS)

Irish rider breaks world side saddle high jump record

Susan Oakes and her grey stallion SIEC Atlas cleared 6'8" (2.03m), beating an unofficial record set in Australia over 100

(Image credit: NICOLA_COFFEY@COFFEYSHOTS)

#SundaySchool: how to ride side-saddle

In a statement on her Facebook page Susan added the record to her is “the equivalent of Olympic gold”.

“I want to own it, cherish it and celebrate it,” she said. “None of this would have been possible without the grass roots of hunting and point-to-pointing, which kept me brave and fit. All the amazing horses that have carried me over many obstacles and terrain. Finally to the support I have received from far and wide, thank you.

“I am extremely grateful & humbled for all the support I receive no matter what equestrian endeavour I take on.”

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

‘Quirky’ Friesian transformed into showing champion

Becky Murray — Wed, 11 Sep 2019 11:20:18 +0000

The owner of a ‘quirky’ Friesian horse transformed from being unable to canter with a rider to a showing sensation has said her dreams have come true.

Katie Yeo bought eight-year-old Jeorgeo from Ebony Stud in January after he was found to be unsuitable as a driving horse — and he went on to stand champion at Equifest (29 August to 1 September).

“I broke Jeorgeo to drive as a three-year-old for the stud and he was a very sensitive little man,” Katie told H&H.

“He was never supposed to be a ridden horse so he was only taught walk and trot but the driving didn’t work out because he could be very highly strung.

“The stud didn’t want to sell him but he needed a job. I retired my Welsh cob Tino last year due to injury and did some work for the stud with Jeorgeo and I was asked if I wanted to buy him so I took a chance on him.”

Katie said she quickly bonded with Jeorgeo.

“He couldn’t canter or go on a circle so I had to spend a lot of time teaching him everything but he was so willing. He needed to trust someone and be a one-person horse – he’s very clingy,” she said.

“People said to me I’d never bond with a horse the way I did with Tino because I’ve owned him 17 years, but I have. A month after buying Jeorgeo I did cross-country at the livery yard bareback because my saddle was away being reflocked – I can do anything with him.”

Katie said she was talked into taking Jeorgeo to Equifest by Rebecca Jayne Rawlinson, who designs side-saddle costumes. Katie and Jeorgeo won six classes, including side-saddle and astride ridden classes, and was crowned open world breeds supreme ridden champion.

“Rebeccca said Jeorgeo would look amazing in a costume and planted the seed. I thought we would go, let him see a bit of the world and treat it as a training show. He’d only been to three small shows before, never a big show in a big arena,” she said.

“I couldn’t believe we won the championship, it was a dream come true. He has a very bouncy exuberant trot and one of the judges said what a showman he is.”

Article continued below…

(Image credit: Katie Yeo)

Pony shot in the head qualifies for showing final – with bullets still in place

(Image credit: Katie Yeo)

‘Survivor’ award for pony found with horrific third-degree burns who went on to be a champion

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(Image credit: Katie Yeo)

Katie said she plans to continue Jeorgeo’s education and is aiming for the side-saddle national championships in 2020.

“He’s proven Friesians can do a bit of everything. We are going to try some hunter trials and do some showjumping and dressage over winter but I never wanted to put pressure on him because he’s still young,” she said.

“It hasn’t sunk in what he’s achieved in such a short time, he’s a proper gentleman who always tries his heart out.”

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

Side by side: Three generations of side saddle riders compete at championship show

Alex Robinson — Fri, 23 Aug 2019 11:24:48 +0000

Three generations of side saddle riders — daughter, mother and granddaughter — competed side by side at the recent national championship show held at Addington Manor.

Danielle Spinney shared the ride on Highland stallion Clandon Oliver Twist with her mum Annie Neame, 59. She also watched her daughter Hemi Spinney, eight, ride her Welsh section B pony Bobbin Jarman. While Danielle was contending her third national championship show as a side-saddle rider, Hemi and Annie were making their first visits to the show.

The three jockeys live together at their base in Kent.

“I’ve ridden side-saddle for three seasons and this year, Mum decided she wanted to give it a go, ” said Danielle. “She had a taster lesson about 40 years ago and only picked it back up again this year; she practised at home a few times and the championships was her first show.”

Twelve-year-old Oliver Twist has been owned by Annie since he was eight months old and has been used as the family’s stud stallion.

Danielle caught the side-saddle bug just before her wedding in 2013.

“It was my dream to be able to ride Oliver Twist down the isle so I got in touch with a trainer who helped me saddle him up and learn the basics so I could just about ride him to the church,” continues Danielle.

“I had a Highland mare at the time so I decided to have a few lessons and learn properly.

“The tables turned at the champs this year, as mum is normally on the ground grooming and I had to do my fair share this time. There is a running joke that I never get him looking as good as she can!”

Danielle has a three-year-old colt by Oliver Twist ready to come through the ranks next year. “It will be nice to have the two of them out together as father and son,” she says.

Annie and Oliver Twist secured several placings including a fifth in the native breed dressage.

Danielle’s daughter Hemi also shone at her first championships, picking up the reserve award in the Signet rider of the year.

“Hemi is also very keen and she is growing in confidence,” says Danielle. “We’d love to watch her do more as it’s important to keep the art of side-saddle riding going through junior riders.”

For all the latest equestrian news and reports, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday

Try something new – side saddle

Sara Walker — Wed, 03 Apr 2019 07:25:23 +0000

If you love a good period drama such as Downton Abbey, you may have admired the skill and elegance of the side saddle riders with their sweeping habits and beautiful turnouts. Riding side saddle, though, isn’t confined to the history books — it’s a popular discipline today and very relevant to the modern rider.

The Side Saddle Association help to encourage and promote the discipline to today’s riders in the UK. Janet Senior has been a member of the Association since 1987, holding various posts on the committee before becoming chairman in 2014.

“I first became a devotee of the discipline in 1969 aged 12, when I watched the May Queen and her attendants riding side saddle on Shire horses in the Gawthorpe Maypole Parade walk by,” she says. “The colour and spectacle made quite an impression on me, and from that moment on I was hooked. I would ride my ex-pit pony (one of the last ones brought up from the coal mines, and on loan from the Blue Cross at a cost of £5!) sitting sideways bareback and pretending I was the May Queen! And yes, I did fall off a lot, but those balance skills stood me in good stead in later life. I eventually taught myself to ride side saddle and trained my horses to it too before joining the association.

Janet Senior (Image credit: creditUnknown)

“Now a national and international instructor, trainer, coach, judge, examiner and competitor, I am passionate about the development, education and welfare of the side saddle horse and rider, including riders with physical and learning disabilities.”

Compared to riding astride, as a side saddle rider you sit further back and on more top of the horse with both your legs positioned on one side. You also carry a cane to use as a guide and support and to give aids to the horse, and have a longer length of rein. The ultimate aim of a good side saddle rider is to be straight, balanced and in harmony with your horse, exactly the same as if you were riding astride.

Side saddle instructor, coach and judge Lisa Lane was introduced to the discipline about 23 years ago, when she looked after a horse who came with a side saddle and was urged by the owner to have a go.

“When the owner came back, I had to admit I hadn’t been able to work out how to put the saddle on properly — at the time I was eventing and showjumping, and had never seen a side saddle!” laughs Lisa. “I had a lesson, though, and was soon hooked. The transition from astride to side saddle depends entirely on the person making it. Some people find it very easy and will be cantering in the first lesson, others absolutely hate it and want to get straight back off, even if they ride well astride. I always say it’s like Marmite, you will either love it or hate it, there doesn’t seem to be much in between.

Lisa Lane. (Image credit: Anne Chambers)

“Most horses will take to side saddle. It is important that they are sound and without health issues, and have a good basic astride education and good temperament — naughty horses who like to rear or spin and spook are not the most suitable candidates for side saddle. Side saddle is becoming a very popular job for horses who are looking for an easier second competitive life as they get older. For example ex-racehorses and eventers.”

It may look completely impossible, but both Janet and Lisa agree that jumping side saddle can be done.

“Jumping side saddle is better done in a straight line,” says Janet. “Generally, the side saddle has two pommels on the near side and exerts a gravitational pull to the left, so the rider needs to counter balance against this to avoid becoming unseated.”

“The current height record for jumping side saddle is 6’8”, held by Irish rider Susan Oakes,” adds Lisa. “Side saddle is becoming popular again among ladies who hunt, and we have a variety of jumping classes at the national side saddle show.”

“If you’re even remotely tempted to have a go, then I’d thoroughly recommend it,” says Janet. “Side saddle is a unique art and way of riding, giving a feeling of grace and elegance while linking the past to the present. Every side saddle rider I have ever worked with or met is drawn to that time and place when side saddle riding was in its prime. There is no other discipline like it, and it gives you a great sense of achievement and pride.”

For more information about taster sessions, to find an instructor in your area or for clinics, courses, training days, demonstrations and competitions, visit the website of the Side Saddle Association.

For all the latest equestrian news and reports, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday.

Tributes paid to elite eventer who helped rider recover from severe car crash injuries

Caroline Bankes — Sat, 28 Jul 2018 12:06:22 +0000

A former four-star eventer, who helped his amateur rider recover from serious injuries suffered during a car crash and fulfilled her long-standing eventing ambitions, died in his field on Wednesday (25 July).

Caroline (Caz) Mosley found Classy Touch, the 22-year-old eventer she’d had on loan since 2014, in the field after he’d had a suspected heart attack. He has been buried at home, leaving “a massive hole” in Caz’s life.

The horse, on loan from Olivia Wilmot, was “the best horse I’ve ever had,” said Caz, who is a veterinary nurse at Edinburgh University teaching undergraduates clinical skills.

“I fully put my recovery down to having Classy in my life,” said Caz, who broke her back and split her liver in a car crash in June 2014.

After spinal surgery to fuse the vertebrae and put plates and screws in, her consultant told her she shouldn’t ride again.

Before the accident Caz had just stepped up to novice eventing on her home-produced horse and had collected tickets for regional finals in an attempt to qualify for the grassroots championships at Badminton.

But she had to put her horse out on loan as it was too sharp for her to risk coming off.

Determined to ride again, just 10 weeks after the crash Caz convinced her vet husband to let her sit on a friend’s sensible cob – albeit on a lead rein at first.

“I had to ride again for my own mental wellbeing,” recalls Caz, now 40.

After seeing a post on Facebook for a good home for a veteran eventer, she was put in touch with Olivia Wilmot, the owner of Classy Touch.

The horse had gone to four-star with Andrew Hoy, who sold him to Amy Batters and he arrived in Olivia’s yard in Kilmarnock in 2010.

She evented him up to three-star taking him to Blair in 2013 aged 18 for his last outing.

“I’m so grateful to Olivia for choosing to loan, not sell him. She’d had a lot of fun with him and just wanted him to have a good life,” said Caz.

The pair clicked straight away, coming second in the BE90 arena class at SNEC the day after he arrived.

Encouraged by a new consultant who gave her the all clear to ride again, Caz started planning future outings with Classy ‘Bear’ (as she calls him because of his hairy ears).

“It took me 18 months after the accident to fully get back my core strength, but Classy looked after me wherever we went,” she said.

“He was an amazing horse to have around, you never felt as though you need to worry when on him. I can’t thank Olivia enough for encouraging me to take him eventing and go intermediate,” she added.

Over the next four years the pair did more together than Caz could ever have imagined.

In 2016 they completed the CCI* at Blair when the horse was 21 years old. This had been Caz’s dream since she started eventing 10 years ago.

At their first BE intermediate they finished in the top 10, and at in his last run in 2017, the pair were 10th after a double clear in the novice at Dalkeith.

Caz credits some of her success to being able to use Lucinda Russell’s all-weather gallops to keep Classy fit, sparing him the hard ground.

Continued below…

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

How dressage helped rider recover from breast cancer

Rachel Constantine, 46, tells H&H about how her drive to make it to the British Dressage regional championships helped her

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

‘We saved each other’: teenager says her pony helped her beat brain tumour

The 14-year-old girl was diagnosed with the condition at the age of six

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

‘My horse saved my life’ says teenager diagnosed with heart condition

Had it not been for the ex-racehorse 'I don't know how long I would have been lying there'

Not a horse to retire munching in the field all day, Classy enjoyed Trec and side saddle competitions after his eventing days were over, qualifying twice for Trec GB Championships.

In June this year Classy and Caz went to the Royal Highland Show to compete in the side saddle classes.

Caz started a Facebook page called Orange Fox Eventing (after her favourite colour and maiden name) shortly after she got Class “to show what fun you can have with a veteran eventer”.

The plan for the rest of this year had been to take Classyback to Blair to do the two-star guinea pig dressage test and compete in the side saddle veteran classes.

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday

Teenage boy succeeds in side-saddle challenge on miracle cob

Lucy Elder — Sun, 07 Jan 2018 15:57:08 +0000

A teenager is planning on taking his side-saddle to the show ring after developing a taste for the riding style during a hunting fundraiser.

William Pittendrigh, 18, spent a day hunting in a side-saddle on his showing star cob to raise money for a cancer charity.

The achievement was made all the more special by the fact that he completed the day on his “horse of a lifetime”, Constellation II (“Alf”), who was diagnosed with a supposedly career-ending injury 18 months ago.

He raised £2,200 for Cancer Research UK through his day with the Tynedale on 23 December.

“It was great!” William told H&H. “I was out for three hours — an hour longer than I planned to be.

“We had quite a bit of jumping and lots of galloping. Alf was amazing, it was just like a normal day [out hunting] for him.”

William had help from Bruce Thorpley and Gail Brown in preparing for the challenge — and plans to keep it up.

“I have actually bought the side-saddle and I’m going to carry on,” said William, adding he is planning to compete in some side-saddle working hunter classes and is also aiming for the Side-Saddle Association’s national championships.

The combination have form in the show ring, including many appearances at the Royal International, at which they took the skewbald and piebald amateur championship title last year.

Article continues below…

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(Image credit: Verity Johnson Photography)

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William Pittendrigh is taking on the challenge aboard his “simply the best” show horse, who he has rehabilitated from a

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William has produced Alf from a four-year-old and also rehabilitated him following his injury in July 2016.

The 10-year-old skewbald cob was competing in a Horse of the Year Show working hunter qualifier at the Scottish Horse Show in July 2016, when he tore a collateral ligament at the final fence.

He has since returned to full work, winning at the Royal International a year after his injury, and is enjoying his hunting.

William chose Cancer Research UK as he lost his grandparents to cancer and his mother has also undergone treatment for two malignant melanomas.

Visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/william-pittendrigh to donate.

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday

Teenage boy and miracle comeback-cob take on side-saddle hunting challenge

Lucy Elder — Fri, 22 Dec 2017 18:32:49 +0000

A teenager is taking to the hunting field side-saddle in aid of charity on a horse who beat the odds to overcome a supposedly career-ending injury.

William Pittendrigh will ride his Royal International Horse Show champion Constellation II, known as “Alf” to his friends, side-saddle for a day’s hunting with the Tynedale tomorrow (23 December) in aid of Cancer Research UK.

William, 18, has produced Alf from a four-year-old and the pair have enjoyed major showing successes together, including many appearances at the Royal International.

The 10-year-old skewbald cob was competing in a Horse of the Year Show working hunter qualifier at the Scottish Horse Show in July 2016 when he tore a collateral ligament at the final fence.

The gelding was on six months of box rest and vets warned the family that he may never be able to return to ridden work.

“He behaved phenomenally on box rest,” said William’s mother, Sarah. “It was like this horse knew, he never whinged or whined or box-walked, he just seemed to know what was needed.”

They then gradually brought him back into work.

Alf made good progress and returned to the show ring to contest some non-jumping classes.

The combination qualified for this year’s Royal International in maxi cob and coloured cob classes.

They topped their achievements by taking the skewbald and piebald amateur championship title at the Royal International (pictured, below), just 12 months after they were told the horse may never be ridden again, and the combination are back to enjoying jumping and hunting.

CONSTELLATION, exhibited by William Pittendrigh winner of the Team Colosso Kerrigan Memorial Skewbald & Piebald Amateur Championship during The Longines Royal International Horse Show (CSIO 5*) held at The All England Jumping Course at Hickstead in West Sussex in the UK between 25 - 30th July 2017 (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

“He is just the best,” said William.

“He just exceeds all expectations — I never thought I would compete him again, never mind champion at the Royal International.”

He added he wanted to try riding side-saddle as his mother had done it in the past, and then came up with the idea of combining it with raising money for a cause close to home.

“I contacted Bruce Thorpley, who is well known in the side-saddle world, and he let me ride his stallion Cos Me Is Black and that was amazing!” said William.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“I wasn’t sure who I was going to ride for the challenge, but I had always wanted to do it on Alf.

“I had to find a side-saddle and that was like finding a needle in a hay stack.”

Gail Brown came to the rescue with a side-saddle that fitted both William and Alf, who took to it instantly.

Article continues below…

Torn ligament survivor proves vets wrong with Royal International victory

The owner was told it was unlikely the horse would come back into work

(Image credit: Peter Nixon)

Try hunting side saddle: all you need to know [H&H VIP]

If you've ever considered hunting side saddle, find out what you need to know to get started

William admitted he looked like a “complete beginner” when he tried side-saddle for the first time, but has got into the swing of it.

“I’m nervous, but Alf loves his hunting so I am very excited,” said William.

I would just like to thank everyone who has taken the time to donate to my just giving page! It’s only three days until I hunt sidesaddle to raise money for Cancer Research and final prep went really well today with Alf. Thanks so much to Bruce Thorpley and Gail Brown for guiding me on this fantastic journey. There is still time donate so please do, however big or small. The link is below. Bring on Saturday! Shares of this post is much appreciated. https://www.justgiving.com/William-PittendrighPosted by William Pittendrigh Equestrian on Wednesday, December 20, 2017

Sarah added she is “hugely proud” of her son and the time and care he has put in to bringing Alf back into work and full fitness.

William chose Cancer Research UK as he lost his grandparents to cancer and his mother has also undergone treatment for two malignant melanomas.

His fundraising total has passed £1,800 and William hopes to raise £2,000.

Visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/william-pittendrigh to donate.

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday

12 elegant (and very daring) ladies hunting side-saddle

Polly Portwin — Mon, 11 Apr 2016 11:25:48 +0000

Side-saddle has enjoyed a revival over recent years with more and more ladies (and the occasional man) daring to take to the hunting field. However elegant and stylish they may look, it is not all about appearances or posing for the cameras though… many can be seen crossing the wildest of country. We take a look at some images of those riding to hounds this season

Are you up to the challenge? 6 horsey things to try in 2016

Amanda Vlietstra — Sun, 10 Jan 2016 12:25:54 +0000

Are you looking for a new challenge in 2016? Something a bit different from aiming to get 70%+ in your dressage tests, or affiliating in your chosen discipline, perhaps? If you want to broaden your horsey horizons, why not try one of the following…

1. Equilates

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Pilates is already popular among equestrians, as it’s great for improving posture and core strength, but Equilates takes it to the next level, aiming to improve the rider’s position on the horse through specific strengthening exercises. There are a number of companies and trainers offering this throughout the UK, and the techniques used may vary, some mainly focusing on ground work, and others using simulators — or even actual horses. A quick Google search should provide you with those who can help you locally.

2. Hunting side-saddle

Charlotte Pearson- Wood (side saddle) (Image credit: Lucy Merrell)

Downton Abbey may have left our screens but its legacy lives on in the form of an upsurge of riders hunting side-saddle. Ladies have been riding side-saddle since the 14th Century, and it still looks wonderfully elegant. The novelist Anthony Trollope, a keen huntsman in the early 20th Century when side-saddle was de rigeur for women, is said to have commented: “Women who ride, as a rule, ride better than men.” If you want to give it a go, you’ll need lessons first — visit www.sidesaddleassociation.co.uk for details of instructors in your area. Apparently a good bra is a must…

3. Horseboarding

http://www.britishhorsesurfingassociation.com/ (Image credit: Emma Tytherleigh)

A relatively new equestrian sport, horseboarding basically involves a skateboarder being pulled along by a horse (and rider). Sounds mad? In fairness, the rider has the easier job! If you’d like to get involved, visit www.horseboardinguk.org, which runs regular training days in Wiltshire, Cambridge, Norwich, Cheshire and Yorkshire, as well as private lessons, and hosts national championship competitions.

Continued below…

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4. Concours D’Elegance

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

If you love dressing up — and who doesn’t? — then Concours D’Elegance may be for you. Hearkening back to a bygone era of equestrian elegance, it’s usually side-saddle or driven, and the idea is that both rider and horse should be a picture of beautifully turned-out elegance, in period costume. Classes are held at various large shows throughout the summer. Visit the Concours D’Elegance UK Facebook page for more information: www.facebook.com/pages/Concours-DElegance-UK-Group

5. Gypsy vanning

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Sadly, the beautiful multi-coloured horse-pulled gypsy caravans of old seem to have disappeared forever from our roads and byways — but if it was your childhood dream to drive one, you can still make this come true. Travel company Wanderlust (www.wanderlust.co.uk) offers gypsy caravan breaks, where you can travel the Cumbrian back roads with family and friends, and even take the reins of a traditional vardo yourself. What’s not to love?

6. Horseback archery

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Originating as a military art, horseback archery is now another equestrian sport for thrill-seekers that’s experienced a resurgence of interest over the past 20 years. It requires both poise in the saddle, strength and a good eye! There are a host of different styles you can try, from Yubusame, which was practised in Japan, to Qabak, Turkish gourd shooting. Check out the British Horseback Archery’s website www.bhaa.org.uk for more information. NB: Horse & Hound recommends you wear an up-to-standard hat at all times while riding.

Meet Shanly: rescue pony to side saddle star VIDEO

Horse & Hound — Wed, 30 Sep 2015 11:05:25 +0000

Today (30 September 2015) marks the end of World Horse Welfare's annual Rehome a Horse Month, and to celebrate, we meet Shanly. In just a year, the coloured pony — who was rehomed by Margaret Davies — has established himself as a side saddle star...

Shanly’s story

Shanly arrived at World Horse Welfare’s Glenda Spooner Farm Rescue and Rehoming Centre in Somerset in 2013 as his owner had become ill and was no longer able to take care of him.

He was just five years old and had very little training or experience, but his gentle nature and easy going character showed his fantastic potential for the future.

Continued below…

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His new home

Shanly’s rehomer Margaret Davies has always suffered from arthritis which often made it painful to ride in the conventional ‘astride’ way but she was keen that this wouldn’t stop her and so 25 years ago she began riding side saddle.

Margaret was looking for a horse to ride side saddle and wanted to rehome instead of buying because of the support you receive.

“I first met Shanly when I was asked to go and fetch him in from the field at World Horse Welfare,” remembers Margaret. “He came straight over to me and I instantly felt we had a connection.

“He came to live with me shortly after and we quickly built up a strong bond while continuing his training on the ground. Once I felt he was ready I had him professionally backed, first of all learning to carry a rider with a leg either side, then in December last year I had the honour of riding him side saddle for the first time.”

Why has Shanly taken to side saddle so well?

“He’s such a calm character that he’s just taken everything in his stride and whenever he is unsure of something he looks to me for reassurance – he knows that if I’m happy then he should be too!” says Margaret.

“I damaged my back in a car accident earlier this year so I sometimes become unbalanced when riding but Shanly senses straightaway if I’m a bit wobbly and will stop to let me right myself. He’ll only continue once he is sure that I’m safe and secure, which is amazing for such a young horse.

“The bonus of rehoming for me is knowing that if anything should happen to me or my circumstances change that Shanly could always go back to World Horse Welfare and would be very carefully found another loving home, plus I can phone up at any time for advice and support so I have full peace of mind.

“Shanly and I are looking forward to attending some more side saddle shows in the future and we’re also taking part in a side saddle fun ride in the next few weeks where everyone wears traditional dress and we have tea and cakes! Shanly is such a lovely character and I simply couldn’t imagine life without him.”

Find out more about rehoming a World Horse Welfare horse at rehoming.worldhorsewelfare.org

Side-saddle race to take part at a racecourse for first time

Amy Mathieson — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 06:05:04 +0000

Twelve ladies will be donning habits this October for a side-saddle race with a twist — it will be the first one on a British racecourse.

The charity race will be over 1m2f on the Flat and the riders will be kitted out in habit, silks and crash hats.

The race has been organised by Philippa Holland (pictured), who is behind the Dianas of the Chase Cup, a side-saddle race over jumps across hunting country.

It will take place at Wincanton racecourse in Somerset.

“It’s the first time a side-saddle race has taken part on the track, and we have approval from the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) to run it as a charity race ahead of racing,” she told H&H.

“We wanted to do something a little bit different to raise the profile of the sport as well as having the chance to gallop at speed down a racecourse.

“Riding side-saddle is a magical feeling — it’s as if you’re being taken back in time and if you are on the right horse, it can feel as if you’re floating.”

The 12 riders will be chosen from applications, which must be received by 24 August.

“Most will be on ex-racehorses,” added Philippa. “And the riders must be of a good standard, as it’s harder to stay on when going fast than jumping over fences.”

The race will be held at Wincanton on Sunday 25 October in aid of the Southern Spinal Injuries Trust.

The riders will parade in the paddock at 11.45 before the race is off at midday

The cross-country Dianas of The Chase Cup will run as usual at Ingarsby Old Hall in Leicestershire on Sunday 29 November. The first race was held in February 2013.

For more information visit: http://www.ssit.org.uk/whats_on/raceday-lunch-at-wincanton-racecourse/

Side-saddle success for injured jockey

Lucy Elder — Thu, 23 Jul 2015 12:01:37 +0000

An amateur jockey who broke her back in a fall is enjoying success in the side-saddle show ring.

Jo Mason crushed her T9 and fractured her T8 vertebrae in a fall at Huworth point-to-point on 21 March.

The 25-year-old, who was knocked out in the fall, was taken to hospital and was operated on the following week.

She now has eight pins and two rods in her back.

She sat on her first horse post-injury just two months after the accident.

While Jo, who is from Malton in North Yorkshire, was recovering she had the idea of trying side-saddle.

“You can’t be in your comfort zone forever,” she told H&H.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

She trained with eventer Rachael Lupton, who put her in contact with some showing specialists, and then introduced her 13-year-old ex-racehorse Liverpool to the new sport.

“He just took it all in his stride like a fish to water,” she said.

“I was like a fish out of water.”

Before retiring from pointing in 2010, Jo rode him in a number of races – winning two.

Prior to that he raced six times under Rules, trained by her grandfather Mick Easterby.

Since then, the combination has taken part in Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) classes and competed at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) last year.

They entered their first side-saddle class – a HOYS qualifier – at the Great Yorkshire Show (12 July), where they came fourth.

The combination also picked up a third place in a RoR class.

(Image credit: Laura Clark)

“He was amazing,” said Jo.

“He is so laid back, he just shows off in the show ring.

“He didn’t do too bad for his first go.”

She is now planning where to enter next.

Jo’s jockey’s licence was also returned to her the week before the Great Yorkshire Show and she is now back racing.

She finished third in her first race back at Doncaster on 9 July and celebrated her first win post-injury on Space War in an amateur ladies’ race at Chester on 10 July. The horse was also trained by her grandfather, Mick.

Jo credited the work of newly-opened Injured Jockeys Fund rehabilitation centre Jack Berry House in helping with her recovery.

She also thanked Rachael for the help she has given her with side-saddle riding.

“It is all thanks to her that I made it to the Great Yorkshire Show,” she said.

Stuck in a rut? 6 unusual horsey things to try this summer

Amanda Vlietstra — Wed, 15 Jul 2015 11:05:31 +0000

It's competition season, but if you fancy trying your hand at something other than the usual suspects, check out these activities…

1. Side Saddle

This is enjoying something of a revival since it virtually died out in the 1920s, when it was no longer deemed unladylike to ride astride. The National Side Saddle Show takes place from 31 July-2 August at Addington Manor Equestrian Centre in Buckinghamshire. With over 70 classes, it’s free for spectators. Why not see if it tickles your fancy? Visit The Side Saddle Association website at www.sidesaddleassociation.co.uk for more information and to discover how to get involved with the sport.

2. Horseboarding

Not for the faint-hearted, horseboarding is an up-and-coming sport in which a horse rider tows a board rider along on a mountain board. It’s a multi-discipline sport that tests the skills of both the rider and the boarder – not to mention the horse! There are two disciplines — horseboarding drag race, in which teams compete to be the fastest, and arena horseboarding, in which competitors negotiate a series of obstacles. You’ll find details of how to get involved at www.horseboardinguk.org.

Continued below…

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3. Jousting

Mediaeval re-enactment is perennially popular and horses are often involved in battle re-enactments or tournaments. If this floats your boat, visit The Mediaeval Combat Society at www.themcs.org to see how you can get involved. If you just fancy trying your hand at the jousting (and frankly, who wouldn’t), then The Knights of Middle England, near Warwick, offer jousting experience days for people with any level of riding experience. Check out their website www.knightsofmiddleengland.com.

4. Horseback archery

Historically originating from the people of the Steppe region — the Mongols, Turks, Sythians, Samartians and Huns — this military art was turned into an equestrian sport, but really only practiced in Japan and Korea where the Steppe traditions live on. The Horseback Combat Centre, in Hertfordshire, is the first and only dedicated horseback archery training and competition centre in the UK. They offer courses from beginners’ weekends, to a half day course at £95 per person. Visit the website at www.horsebackcombat.co.uk.

5. Horseball

A fast and furious game played on horseback where points are scored by shooting a ball through a hoop, horseball is a combination of polo, rugby and basketball. It’s rapidly growing in popularity in the UK and is one of the ten disciplines officially recognized by the International Federation for Equestrian Sports. There are a number of demos you can go along to this summer if you’re interested in getting involved – you’ll find details on the British Horseball Association’s website at www.britishhorseball.co.uk

6. Rodeo riding

‘Get off your horse and drink your milk!’ You too can make like John Wayne and try your hand at being a Western cowgirl or cowboy, right here in the UK. The British Rodeo Cowboys Association in Fawkham, Kent, offers training and competitions in all Western riding disciplines from neck-reining to working with cattle. More laidback riders can simply enjoy trail riders. Upcoming events include a rodeo on 1-2 Aug and a cattle clinic on 5 Sept. Visit their website at www.rodeocowboys.org.uk for more information.

Side-saddle extravaganza to celebrate association’s 40th birthday

Caroline Bankes — Sat, 09 May 2015 06:25:51 +0000

The Side Saddle Association (SSA) is celebrating its 40th anniversary — and its inception was thanks to H&H.

The SSA was started in 1974 by Janet Macdonald and Valerie Francis. Concerned that side-saddle was dying out, the pair wrote to H&H to try to revive it.

Encouraged by the huge response, they set up the association with 50 members.

“Never was a postage stamp better spent,” said one member

Membership peaked at 1,150 but now remains at about 1,000.

“The main change is that our founders had the bright idea of introducing equitation classes where the rider is judged, not the horse. This has brought up the standard of side-saddle riding,” said SSA president Maureen James.

Membership is curtailed by the availability of affordable saddles, but the SSA is urging manufacturers to make more side-saddle trees.

“If saddles were easier and cheaper to find we would have more members,” she added.

The sport has recently enjoyed a surge in popularity and this weekend (9-10 May) enthusiasts from around the world will gather at Aintree Equestrian Centre to celebrate.

The SSA International Celebration Weekend was organised to raise the profile of side-saddle riding and to celebrate the end of the association’s 40th year.

Every aspect of side riding from par de deux to jumping and hunting will be on show.

There will be displays showing the history of side-saddle riding from 1500 to today and parades from the current leading riders including 19-year-old Morgan Schive (pictured) who is the youngest rider to take the title.

As part of her prize for winning the Aintree national show side-saddle championship last year, Ms Schive led in the winner of the Topham Chase at this year’s Grand National meeting.

At the SSA’s three-day National Show in August there are 75 classes, including dressage, showjumping and fancy dress.

One competitor last year bought two horses over from Russia to compete.

The growing popularity of side-saddle in the hunting field was evident at last year’s Quorn opening meet where a record 50 riders turned out. And in the US in April the first side-saddle steeplechase since the 1930s was run in Virginia.

Organsiers credited television series such as Downton Abbey for the resurgence in interest in the sport in America.

Photo by Bill Selwyn

Side saddle steeplechase to return to America thanks to Downton Abbey

Amy Mathieson — Thu, 09 Apr 2015 15:55:24 +0000

Glamour, elegance and side saddle are set to return to Virginia this weekend (Sunday 12 April) when the first side saddle steeplechase to be run in America since the 1930s takes place.

The inaugural Esther Everhart Memorial Invitational Side Saddle Chase will run at the historic Oatlands Plantation in Virginia.

A dedicated group of female riders set out to recreate the pursuit of the 1930s — and they credit television series such as Downton Abbey for the resurgence in interest in the sport in the US.

Organisers Maggie Johnston and Devon Zebrovious met on a side-saddle hunting trip in Ireland. There they also met Dianas of the Chase organiser Philippa Holland, and decided the US needed a version of the race.

The race will be mostly on the flat — with an optional jump towards the finish — and will run over a mile.

The race is named after US side saddle repair specialist George “Smoky” Everhart’s mother Esther. Esther was a regular fixture in the Middleburg and Orange County Hunt fields, as well as the ladies point-to-point racing circuit, all while riding side saddle.

“We hope to rekindle the excitement and glamour of this traditional discipline for today’s riders and spectators of all ages,” said Ms Zebrovious, who was the United States Equestrian Federation’s ladies side saddle hunter national champion in 2013 and 2014.

“We are very excited about this race, as there has not been a race featuring women riding aside in the US since the 1930s,” added Maggie.

“Side saddle used to be the only way for a proper lady to ride, and women did everything aside that men did astride: hunting, racing, and showing. However, with the women’s suffrage movement gaining support in the early 20th century, more women started putting a leg on either side of the horse and riding astride, until eventually after World War Two women riding aside became a rarity rather than the rule.

“While side saddle never died out in the latter half of the 20th century, it was mostly seen only in the show ring. But now, thanks in part to the ease of modern communication, social media, and hit shows such as Downton Abbey side saddle has regained popularity the world over, with more and more women taking up the discipline.”

Katie Jerram: Is there trouble ahead? [H&H VIP]

Katie Jerram Hunnable — Wed, 01 Apr 2015 08:22:11 +0000

As the season opens, riders will already have their sights on Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) and Royal International Horse Show (RIHS) qualifying tickets. New initiatives offer extra opportunities – although I’m going to add some well-meant warnings to my support.

If you’ve experienced the frustration of being a permanent showring bridesmaid and just missing out on HOYS qualification, the Tagg La Liga Most Consistent Award series will give you an extra chance. It calculates competitors’ best five results over the season and, using a points system to keep things fair, awards one wild-card across all the ridden horse classes and one across all the ridden pony classes.

There’s even a bit of X-Factor-type drama. If there is a tie on points, a live draw on the HOYS website will decide which combination takes the card. I’m not too sure about this, or am I just old-fashioned? Let’s hope there won’t be pictures of an elated winner and a sobbing loser to go with it.

My main worry is that some competitors will be so desperate to get to HOYS that they will be tempted to enter every qualifier possible. Please don’t: it isn’t fair on horses and probably won’t increase their chances. Hopefully, the points system — in which five points are allocated for a win down to one for fifth place — will ensure quality wins through.

Whoever takes the cards will deserve them, but I really hope they go to amateur riders. It’s inevitable that we professionals dominate HOYS and the RIHS and we wouldn’t be good at our jobs if we didn’t, but the clinics I’ve taken over the winter have proved how keen and dedicated some amateurs are. Good luck!

Side-saddle gain — and loss

I’ve also seen an upsurge of interest in side-saddle and am told that last year’s Side Saddle Association national championships had wonderful support. This means that more breeds and types are being ridden sideways, and I’m sure the British Show Horse Association (BSHA) Ladies Side Saddle Horse of the Year qualifiers, which are open to registered hacks, cobs, riding horses and hunters, will be well supported.

However, it’s tragic that we’ve lost the HOYS ladies’ hunter class. I know the BSHA has launched its Ladies’ Hunter of the Year championship, with a final at the national hunter championships in September, and hope to support it – and, of course, we have the wonderful RIHS classes.

But why couldn’t HOYS run the traditional ladies’ hunter championship alongside one for hacks, cobs and riding horses? Spectators love to see the elegance and tradition of ladies’ hunter classes — the two could have been a real draw.

I also worry that at HOYS mixed classes could present safety issues. There will be a lot of horses in that relatively small ring, and the difficulty of mixing big-moving hunters with, in particular, hacks, must not be under-estimated. I hope that when horses are asked to gallop, they will be split into large and small categories, not into random groups.

A step too far?

Some of our most experienced and valued ladies’ hunter judges have not been placed automatically on the ladies’ hunter judging panel unless they are already on the BSHA one, but have to be assessed before being admitted to the ladies’ hunter panel. This is causing controversy.

This is the right decision in terms of younger judges who have not yet experienced judging at our biggest shows, but surely it’s unnecessary and even insulting to require experienced and respected judges to be assessed. For a start, you need assessors of the same calibre!

This isn’t sour grapes. I was allowed to join the ladies’ hunter panel many years ago and see it as an honour. I’m also a BSHA panel judge, so get automatic switchover rights.

What will happen if judges whose experience we need so much decide that they don’t want to volunteer to be assessed and would rather step down? That would be a step too far.

You have to expect teething problems with all new ideas. I’m sure this will apply to both the Tagg La Liga and the side-saddle series. Let’s hope both live up to their promise.

H&H 26 March 2015

Boost for side-saddle competitors

Amy Mathieson — Mon, 23 Feb 2015 07:25:14 +0000

There are now three opportunities for side-saddle riders to win a show horse championship this year, following the restructure of the ladies’ hunters at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS 7-11 October).

Last year HOYS said it was to open up the ladies’ hunter of the year championship to show horses — hacks, cobs and riding horses — to become the ladies’ side-saddle horse of the year championship.

“The impetus behind the change was to promote side-saddle on other types of show horses,” a HOYS spokesman told H&H.

“Numbers in side-saddle classes on hunters have consistently been in decline, and by opening the category to all types, we aim to inject new life into the discipline.

“This form of riding is an elegant and traditional art form and by expanding the class, we hope riders will be encouraged to explore the discipline.”

Showing judge and H&H columnist Stuart Hollings said this could be a positive development.

“When I’ve been judging at shows in recent years, I’ve noticed that some of the ladies’ hunter classes have not been up to scratch as regards both quantity and quality, compared to the past — so perhaps this can be seen as a much needed lifeline,” he said.

There was controversy last year when a disagreement over a new hat safety rule resulted in HOYS hunter qualifiers no longer being run by Sports Horse Breeding of Great Britain (SHB(GB)).

In 2014 all the hunter qualifiers were instead run by the British Show Horse Association (BSHA), which will continue to run them this year.

In response to the change at HOYS, the BSHA has launched a separate BSHA ladies’ hunter of the year title, which will be held at the BSHA championships at Addington Manor on 10 September.

“Traditional ladies’ hunter competitors and fans were disappointed and did not wish to lose this class, hence we have introduced a new BSHA ladies’ hunter of the year championship to support the continuation of this iconic class,” said Sue Webb of the BSHA. “We hope that this initiative will be welcome.”

The BSHA also holds the Tiequestrian ladies’ show horse championship, working with the Side Saddle Association — also held at the BSHA championships in September.

“These together with the HOYS side-saddle horse of the year qualifier will ensure that fans of the genre will have plenty of chances compete in these most elegant of classes,” added Ms Webb.

“It will be interesting to see how this pans out, however the BSHA is confident that the showing scene is strong and as an association we will continue to support shows to provide opportunities for riders at all levels.”

H&H blogger Loraine Homer said the HOYS class change had received mixed views in the showing world.

“I think the popularity of it will depend on which day it is held,” she said. “I am delighted though that the BSHA will be hosting a ladies’ hunter of the year instead at its championship show in September.”

Ref: Horse & Hound; 19 February 2015

How daring are you? Six equestrian events for the ultimate adrenaline junkie [VIDEOS]

Madeleine Silver — Thu, 22 Jan 2015 09:05:02 +0000

An industrial-sized hip flask can be the only explanation for the riders who sign up to an array of equestrian activities that ‘verging on bonkers’ would aptly describe. Watching from the sidelines may well provide a sufficient kick…

1. Dianas of the Chase, Ingarsby Old Hall, Leics

Until February 2013, side saddle steeplechases were dead — one hadn’t been run since 1927. But jewellery designer Philippa Holland and Captain Fred Hopkinson from the Household Cavalry decided that needed to change. Step forward the Dianas of the Chase race.

Get your fix: 29 November 2015 (TBC)

2. Dromin Athlacca Community Ride, Co. Limerick, Ireland

Don’t be fooled by the comforting word “community” in the name — checking the small print on your insurance policy might be the best use of your time. Despite efforts to make the race more rider-friendly — “we’re keen to get everyone safely across the country” one of the organisers tells us — there is no escaping the robust ditches, banks and walls on the 15-mile course covering famous Limerick country.

Get your fix: October 2015 (TBC)

3. Mongol Derby, Mongolia

Anything that claims to be the “longest and toughest horse race in the world” is unlikely to show your body a good time. “This is no guided tour, or pony trek,” declare the organisers. “There is no marked course, no packed lunches, no shower block, no stabling. That’s the whole point. It’s just you, your team of horses and a thousand kilometres of Mongolian wilderness. And possibly a GPS.”

Get your fix: 2-16 August 2015

4. Velka Pardubicka, Pardubice, Czech Republic

George Williamson was the last jockey to win both the Grand National and the Czech Republic’s answer to our iconic race, the Velka Pardubicka. And that was in1899 — which gives an indication of what we’re dealing with here. The gruelling four-and-a-quarter-mile race features the terrifying Taxis Ditch — a towering hedge with a ditch on landing, which allegedly dwarfs Becher’s Brook.

Get your fix: 11 October 2015

5. Skijoring, St Moritz, Switzerland

It would be hard to make up a stranger equestrian discipline than skijoring — horses towing “jockeys” behind them on skis for 2,700m across 60cm thick ice, with speeds reaching up to 50 kilometres per hour. The start of the race is where things can get particularly precarious — tangled reins and horses setting off in different directions is not unheard of. In 1965, not a single skier succeeded in crossing the finishing line. Efforts have since been made to make the sport safer — coloured skis are now compulsory so that horses can see them in the snow and competitors undergo stringent testing in the run-up to the event. Nonetheless, strength, athleticism, balance, toughness — and an element of luck — are crucial to succeed.

Get your fix: 8, 15 and 22 February 2015

6. The Golden Button Challenge, Longdon Marsh, Glos

If hurling yourself over 28 natural obstacles across three miles of Ledbury Hunt country, styled on an original steeplechase, is your idea of a good day out — you’re in luck. After taking a break from the calendar, the race is back in action. The Golden Buttons up for grabs include those for the first veteran, first non-thoroughbred and for the first military person.

Get your fix: 14 February 2015

Don’t miss the adrenaline special in this week’s Horse & Hound magazine (29 January 2015), where we find out how to manage your adrenaline and take a look at the facts and figures that show just how fast and furious horse sport is

Katie Jerram: A lovely time of year [H&H VIP]

Katie Jerram Hunnable — Sat, 22 Nov 2014 09:00:51 +0000

It is funny how many people assume that, after Horse of the Year Show (HOYS), showing people settle in for a winter of holidays and no horses. If I had a fiver for every time someone said, “I expect all your horses are roughed off now,” I’d be very happy.

A holiday would be welcome, but we’re still busy. Like many yards, we don’t come to a halt after HOYS; we change gear. The established horses go on a “ticking over” regime, hacking out and having fun, and the youngsters come in for backing or schooling. Those who made their debut this season are also fun to work with, as we look at improving their education and performance.

One of my team said recently what a lovely time of year this is. She’s right: it’s great to see horses’ potential as they learn to jump and are perhaps introduced to a side saddle. I’m hoping I’ll even have time for some days’ hunting — yes, we do hunt some of the show horses, especially the workers, when the going is good enough.

As any rider knows, you’re only as good as your team, whether that’s in a professional set-up or as an amateur relying on friends and family. I’m so proud that my head girl, Jo Jack, was voted professional groom of the year at the Showing Council and Showing World awards this month. Jo’s been with me for 10 years and is part of the family as well as being someone I can trust and rely on.

Moving on

In some ways, I’m glad this season is over. It’s been a difficult one, marred by the controversy over whether riders in hunter classes should have to wear hats with three-point harnesses.

Sport Horse Breeding of Great Britain (SHB (GB)) made safety hats compulsory, but HOYS wanted competitors to have freedom of choice and moved its hunter qualifiers and final under the British Show Horse Association’s (BSHA) umbrella. Inevitably, SHB(GB) lost members who had joined purely to show, which affected its revenue.

We have no choice but to move on, but I hope those who think of SHB(GB) only as a showing society will remember that it is much more. For the future of the sport horse and the show hunter, please support it.

In all fairness, the BSHA made a good job of the hunter classes at HOYS. The society goes into 2015 with a new sponsor for the ladies’ show horse championship at its national championships show.

Thanks to Total Impact Equestrian for taking that on — and, of course, thank you to iPura for sponsoring it for its first two years. There is a £200 first prize for the eventual champion, but that will be the icing on the cake rather than the main attraction.

Protect ladies’ hunters

Interest in side saddle riding is growing — if the number of requests I get for lessons is anything to go by. But while I’m pleased to see so much interest and to see ladies riding and competing side saddle on so many types of horses and ponies, including cobs and mountain and moorlands, we must protect our ladies’ hunters as a specific category.

I’ve heard a few predictions that eventually ladies’ hunters will be just part of the broader picture of “ladies’” horses rather than remaining as a valuable section within hunter classes. I really hope they’re wrong.

At the same time, I’ve always wanted HOYS to add a class for hacks and riding horses ridden side saddle: these types have a head start in elegance. I’m sure qualifying classes would attract plenty of entries and would also be a crowd-pleaser.

There is an intriguing class in store for next year’s National Pony Society (NPS) summer championships. Held on hack, cob and hunter day, the free-to-enter class is for those of 50 years and over who have not ridden in the ring for the past 10 years, though ride judges are obviously not eligible.

It’s a fun initiative designed to encourage adults who — to quote the NPS — “are really good at telling young riders how to do it from the ringside” to take part in a class. Parents need to get in training now!

Seriously, it can only be a good thing. It’s easy to stand on the outside and criticise judges/riders/horses, and some people forget — or maybe don’t appreciate — that it’s very different when you’re in the ring.

The old proverb says that before you criticise a man, you should walk a mile in his shoes, so maybe it’s fair to say that before you criticise a rider, you should ride a class in his or her boots.

I hope H&H readers have a great winter. It won’t be long until the 2015 season, so start planning now.

This article was first published in Horse & Hound magazine (20 November 2014)

Try hunting side saddle: all you need to know [H&H VIP]

Horse & Hound — Mon, 17 Nov 2014 12:55:13 +0000

To get the best out of hunting side saddle, prior lessons are a must. The number you need will depend on rider fitness and natural aptitude for riding sideways. There is no shortcut and even the most accomplished side saddle ladies hone their skills with lessons, as it’s easy to slip into bad habits.

Most people who ride regularly astride will pick up riding side saddle in a lesson or two and then it’s up to you how quickly you put your skills into practice on the hunting field.

Ideally, your horse should be used to taking a side saddle and schooled so the transition from walk to canter is seamless; trotting is uncomfortable for the rider and not good for the horse’s back.

“Udder judder is a ghastly sight. You need a really good bra, or two, and corsets are good to hold everything in place,” says Jinks Bryer, a side saddle instructor and the daughter of the late Betty Skelton, president of the Side Saddle Association for 30 years.

“A true side saddle horse will never lead on the left leg, preferring to canter only on his right” adds Jinks. “He will transit from walk to canter seamlessly and should canter in hand at pace with the hounds.”

When jumping, less interference from the rider often ensures a better jump. You will both find it easier to jump off a longer stride out of a flowing canter; a bascule can be uncomfortable to sit to. For this reason a thoroughbred-type will often be a better side saddle horse than a warmblood. Hedges tend to jump better than timber and, according to side saddle doyenne Martha Sitwell: “If you’re wrong go long, if you’re wronger, go longer!”

Finding the right meet

Hunting side saddle can be very social and people are pleased to see you.

Try to choose a suitable meet — ideally one that is not too hilly, and woodland with low branches is to be avoided for obvious reasons. You don’t want a long hack from home or parking before you start tour day either, so try to be dropped off at the meet or park close by.

Many hunts now hold specific side saddle days. The Quorn’s opening meet fields about 30 side saddle ladies from the UK and abroad. Your local hunt secretary should be able to tell you if your pack has a day planned.

What to wear and where to find it

A habit and a side saddle are the key elements — etiquette dictates the rest. Safety is a priority and those choices are yours.

Tradition dictates that a top hat and veil with hunting boots and one spur should be worn after the opening meet and the same with a bowler, tweed habit and tie and brown boots before the opening meet.

Many riders will nowadays change to safety helmets just before moving off. Light-coloured gloves should always be worn — dark-coloured gloves used to signify mourning and hence the wearer shouldn’t really be seen on the hunting field.

8 top tips for hunting side saddle

1. Have your saddle professionally fitted by a master saddler and ask them to check it internally. Most saddles are old and broken trees are common if they have been sitting in the attic for a long time. Ensure your straps are secure and in good condition.

2. Try to “go” with the horse, ride tight to the leaping head for a more comfortable day.

3. Core strength is key. Pilates, ballet or sit-ups will help to prepare you well.

4. To avoid getting a sore knee, bandage up your leaping head with vet wrap or a sponge.

5. Invest in comfortable pants — “no thongs”, according to Emma Brown of the Quorn.

6. “People tend to bang into you from the offside where your leg isn’t, so ensure your horse is used to a crowd,” stresses Belinda Wilkins, whose daughter Caroline hunts aside with the Chiddingfold, Leconfield and Cowdray.

7. Don’t try to open or close a gate. “Either jump it or get someone to do it for you,” says Lucy Holland, who took up hunting side saddle 13 years ago.

8. According to Jinks Bryer, if men approach you from the near side, “ignore them. You don’t turn left to talk to people when riding aside — your weight could damage the horse’s back.”

For more information, visit www.sidesaddleassociation.co.uk

This article was first published in Hound & Hound magazine (13 November 2014)

(Image credit: Peter Nixon)

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Taking a young horse hunting: dos and don’ts

Introducing a young or new horse to the hunting field can be a daunting prospect. Follow our advice to make

Mother and daughter ride side by side

Caroline Bankes — Sat, 09 Aug 2014 14:00:17 +0000

A mother and daughter became the first to compete against each other in the side saddle ring, at the Royal Welsh Show last month.

Loretta Niblo was competing against her 10-year-old daughter Tegan in the equitation and concours d’elegance classes on Tuesday 22 July.

Loretta won the championship after winning the equitation and concours class on her 17.1hh Irish sports horse, Irish Imp II (Murphy), the first time one rider has won both classes at the show.

Her daughter came fifth and sixth in both classes and led the lap of honour after the conours class.

Tegan was riding her 12.3hh dun section B pony Lennards Luninaire (Mr Fox).

“It was a very proud moment, very emotional and good fun,” Loretta told H&H.

Tegan has been riding side saddle for two years, but this is her first competitive season.

Loretta had watched side saddle demonstrations at shows as a child, but growing up in north London never had the opportunity to compete.

The cost was another prohibiting factor, but seven years ago, Loretta, 43, discovered she could hire a side saddle from Elizabeth Turner in Cornwall.

“I took to it straight away and have ridden side saddle ever since,” she added.

She bought Tegan a pony pilch two years ago and as she was so keen moved up to a proper tree side saddle.

Tegan rides Mr Fox astride in the jumping teams for the Swansea & District Pony Club branch and also for the Gower Riding Club, but has just started to jump side saddle too.

For more information visit: www.sidesaddleassociation.co.uk

Loraine Homer’s showing blog: mixed emotions at Hickstead

Loraine Homer — Tue, 05 Aug 2014 09:00:19 +0000

I would be lying if I didn’t admit I had written this blog from the Royal International Horse Show (RIHS) repeatedly in my head with happier news to report. We have won a few first place rosettes recently, with Harry (my son) winning his ride at Pony Club camp and Alice (my daughter) being in the winning Warwickshire team at a Pony Club area competition. So I set off to Hickstead with two very in-form ponies and bags of enthusiasm, hoping for a famous blue sash.

It wasn’t our day however, and in fact, the form book in the show hunter pony (SHP) classes was well and truly shaken up. I am delighted that Alice received the top show mark on Annandale Maria, as that is the most important thing for her to achieve. I am not sure the two SHP judges went for the same type of animal having looked at the marks they awarded. This is testament to the fact you can never judge the outcome of a class from the ringside.

I heard the saying ‘it’s only another show’ said several times, but although I tried to use it to console myself slightly, I am not sure RHIS is ‘only another show’. There is a magic about this occasion, and I must thank Roger Stack (Hickstead’s showing director) for putting it there.

Indeed, I thought there were several unexpected results during the first few days across the sections, so it must give encouragement to everyone entering. Competitors all have an equal chance, so with a good performance it could be your day. There were some wonderful surprised faces to see when riders were pulled up from down the line to win.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

I must congratulate the show pony champion. A truly beautiful pony, Rotherwood Rainmaker, ridden extremely well by Poppy Carter, who went on to take the pony supreme (pictured right). Thank the lord, Poppy was judged sensibly in her class by someone who didn’t over penalise a tiny blip during her show. Well done to you all.

We managed a trip to the national side saddle championships too, where Alice made her sideways debut on Annandale Maria (pictured below left) who went perfectly to win the SHP class, despite a terrible thunder storm.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

I managed to win a good Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) ladies hunter class with Boswell Bay, and I must comment on my wonderful fellow competitors who were so lovely to be amongst. The show has a really lovely atmosphere and everybody was simply having a great time.

Loraine

Calls for side saddles to combat shortage

Caroline Bankes — Sun, 27 Jul 2014 12:00:49 +0000

Side saddle riders are being asked to bequeath, loan or sell old saddles to the Side Saddle Association (SSA) to meet the “desperate need” for equipment.

There has been a revival in side saddle riding with more classes at shows and more riders in the hunting field. The “Downton Abbey effect” is also thought to have contributed to its renewed popularity.

The SSA has a hiring scheme for the show season (April-October), but there are not enough saddles to meet rising demand — the Association, celebrating its 40th anniversary, has more than 1,000 members.

“The aim of the association is to uphold the tradition, not only for the next generation but for generations to come. We must protect our heritage; but without side saddles we do not have a future,” said SSA president Maureen James.

She said new side saddles can take six to seven months to make and be expensive; saddler Tiffany Parkinson spent 180 hours making her winning entry in this year’s Society of Master Saddlers competition.

“Our members are prepared to pay a fair price and will unreservedly cherish and take pride in using and/owning it, so please don’t be afraid to entrust your valued side saddle to the next generation,” added the association’s secretary, Sally Lane.

First published in Horse & Hound magazine on 24 July 2014

Riding holiday review: Castle Leslie in Ireland — you won’t want to leave

Sophia Heath — Wed, 28 May 2014 14:22:15 +0000

Only 80min from Dublin and 60min from Belfast, Castle Leslie sits in 1,000 acres of Irish countryside. It claims to be the ‘perfect horse riding holiday’ for equestrians, but does it live up to its reputation?

I was fortunate enough to enjoy a taster version of Castle Leslie’s “Horse Sport package”. This is designed for the “more experienced rider looking to improve their riding skills” and incorporates a mixture of showjumping, cross-country, dressage and estate rides.

There is an option of a 3- or 5-day package with including a full Irish breakfast and a choice of a 2 course meal in Conor’s Bar or a main course in Snaffles Restaurant. Prices for the 3-day option start from €730 (£591) per person sharing, with the 5-day package starting from €1185 (£912).

What can the package include?

Cross-country ride

This is arguably what makes the estate so unique and definitely one of the highlights of any trip. The estate covers more than a 1,000 acres and as well as taking in the scenery, there is the chance to have a good splash around in the lake. There are plenty of optional obstacles to tackle including banks, ditches and drops. Some of the fences do look a little bit tired, but a revamp is planned in the near future so things are set to get even better.

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Flat lesson

All of the equestrian staff at Castle Leslie have a great attitude and are a fantastic mixture of encouraging, knowledgeable and fun. This is easily translated into the flat work sessions. Although not all the horses are convinced they are dressage divas (I spent an hour on Fernando who spends his winters as a master’s horse) there is still plenty to be gained.

Side-saddle taster

Being 5ft4 and having short legs looking “elegant” on a horse has always been a bit of an uphill struggle, but this is a great opportunity for a bit of posing. The lovely Wellington, who is one of the horses that takes a side-saddle, nearly died 2 years ago after getting stuck in a river after the bank subsided. Despite doing serious ligament damage to his back, he loves his new job of giving riders their first side-saddle experience. I found it quite comfy, but other riders in my group were not quite so convinced.

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Indoor cross-country

With a series of portable fences, including skinnies, this is a great opportunity to be a bit more precise about your riding. The horses are all so well trained and honest that it is a great chance to concentrate on yourself.

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Mechanical horse

“Prince” the mechanical horse is used both to teach beginners how to ride and for more experienced riders as a no hassle lunge lesson. It’s a really useful exercise to be able to check balance, stamp out any bad habits and it is a real workout to boot. One of the exercises that I found very useful was doing rising trot with one stirrup. This enables you see which side you favour and which side needs strengthening. A hint for the ladies though make sure you wear a good sports bra — those mirrors are very unforgiving.

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What are the horses like?

There is a real variety of horses available, ranging from those used to primarily teach beginners and those that are given to more experience jockeys. The staff try their best to match combinations and each new group is given a 15-minute riding assessment to make sure that everyone is comfortable.

Even the horses given to the more experienced riders are impeccably behaved, but tend to either be a little less experienced or a little bit stronger. It is such a treat to ride horses that take you to a fence, know their jobs inside out and also are somehow not completely stale of the riding school life. If you have any concerns make sure you talk to staff as the whole ethos behind the experience is to have fun, not to scare you senseless.

What is the accommodation like?

The equestrian package is designed for visitors to stay in the lodge, which is located next to the stables, rather than in the castle. Many of the rooms come with balconies looking onto the immaculate yard, which is enough to keep most horse lovers happy. As well as luxurious king-sized double beds, all rooms come with a huge stand-alone bath, which is perfect to soak away any post-ride stiffness.

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Is there anything special I need to pack?

Although hats and body protectors are available, I would recommend that you bring your own as the selection is not vast. Either take the hit and pay the bit extra for a hold luggage or if you really want to save the pennies you can wear your body protector on the plane. Also the emerald isle is green for a reason so whatever the season you are best to expect rain. You might be grateful for full waterproofs or certainly a couple of changes of jodhpurs.

What is the food like?

There are 2 restaurants which are based within the Lodge. Conor’s bar & lounge and Snaffles restaurant.

Conor’s bar and lounge

The bar has a lovely relaxed atmosphere, with friendly service. It offers a mixture of classic pub food, such as fish and chips and burgers, with some more refined dishes such as pan seared coley with a warm fennel and spinach salad. The food is great, but with the current state of the euro any booze is slightly expensive. Main courses cost around €14 (£11).

Snaffles restaurant

Snaflles is a 2 AA Rosette Restaurant set on a mezzanine floor in the lodge. Although there is no strict dress code, the ambiance is more formal so if you have room maybe pack a frock or a pair of chinos. The dinner menu is €65pp (£50) and includes a chef’s choice appetiser, starter, main, desert and tea or coffee. Main courses included chargrilled 7oz fillet of Irish beef or roast breast of silverhill duck. My advice would be make sure you leave room for dessert because the white chocolate crème brule is to die for.

Breakfast

Breakfast, which is included in the sports horse package, is served in Snaffles restaurant. It has a very relaxed atmosphere with many guests dining in their jodpurs. As well as a continental selection, there is also extensive Irish breakfast options including scrambled eggs with Irish smoked salmon or grilled kippers. I can strongly recommend the eggs benedict, but make sure you leave enough time between breakfast and your first riding session.

What else should you do on your trip?

The village of Glaslough where Castle Leslie is based is well worth a stroll around and it is, of course, a good idea to stop off at the local pub. The collection of clocks coupled with Irish music is enough to make you feel like you have stepped straight into a scene of PS I Love You. Unfortunately, unlike in the film, Gerald Butler look-alikes are far and few between.

As well as getting to know the local amenities, a walk around the castle is well worth it even if you choose to stay in the lodge. The rooms are all completely individual and the master bedrooms really are something special. If it is unoccupied you can even have a sneaky peak around the room where Paul McCartney and Heather Mills spent their wedding night. Sir John Leslie, who is 97 and tends to be known as Sir Jack, still lives in the castle and often joins guests for breakfast.

The verdict?

I can’t recommend a trip to Castle Leslie highly enough. I am already trying to save the pennies to get back out there again. The combination of lovely horses, beautiful scenery, fantastic food and great staff make it complete heaven for any horse nut. The most difficult part is having to leave.

Castle Leslie is one of Ireland’s leading equestrian establishments — a castle estate that is a haven for outdoor adventurers. Ideal for cross-country enthusiasts, the venue boasts 300 cross-country jumps set in 1000 acres of woodland. The estate offers something for everyone, from the ‘Learn to ride in 5 days’ programme and the bring-your-own-horse ‘Hotel for Horses’ package, to the 3- and 5-day ‘Horse Sport’ packages, for experienced riders wanting to expand on their skills or try a new discipline. Visit www.castleleslie.com for a full list of packages, and visit the special offers section for the latest deals.

Take a trip to Holkham beach with your horse

World Horse Welfare celebrates success stories in rehoming initiative

Martha Terry — Tue, 20 May 2014 10:00:51 +0000

A 5-year-old side-saddle rider who rehomed a neglected pony is the star story of World Horse Welfare’s Rehome a Horse month.

Rosie, a dun mare, came to the Blackpool Rescue and Rehoming Centre with painfully overgrown feet and laminitis back in 2004.

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She has since recovered and been rehomed with Megan Jones, 5, whom she partnered side-saddle in the London New Year’s Day Parade this year.

Megan’s mother, Angharad Jones, described Rosie as “the perfect pony”.

“Rosie and Megan are inseparable and have been since we rehomed Rosie in 2009,” Angharad said.

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“She’s just so willing and incredibly calm – perfect for my daughter.”

Rosie was foot-perfect at the parade in front of half a million spectators with her small jockey — the youngest-ever side-saddle rider to participate.

“Rosie is not fazed by anything,” added Angharad. “We went down to where the brass bands were playing very, very loudly and Rosie went to sleep!”

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The pair have also been successful in the showring, standing reserve champion for side-saddle and young handler under-10, as well as 2 seconds in veteran in-hand and concours d’elegance side-saddle at this month’s Nefyn Agricultural Show (5 May).

“I am glad that World Horse Welfare gave me my pony because I love her very much,” said Megan. “Other little girls and boys should get one too because then horses who have no homes can be happy.”

Horses must be rehomed by a responsible and capable adult on behalf of their children. If circumstances change, or the pony is outgrown, it can be returned to World Horse Welfare.

For information, visit www.worldhorsewelfare.org/rehoming.

Grand National excitement for Aintree side saddle champions

Martha Terry — Fri, 28 Mar 2014 14:30:13 +0000

Two side saddle champions will lead in the winners of the Topham Chase on Ladies’ Day at Aintree’s Grand National meeting next week (4 April).

Morgan Schive, who won the Alexander James picture of elegance side saddle championship at the National Show, Aintree, last July, and reserve champion Jo Hales will take the honours.

Jo’s National Show ride, Llanarth Hornpipe (pictured below), on whom she started side saddle following a successful eventing career, was put to sleep last year after an old injury flared up. So she will partner Laura Tylor’s Cairn Dhu, 20, a former Flat racehorse, who has evented up to intermediate and hunted the past 5 seasons with the Bicester with Whaddon Chase.

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“He’s a retrained racehorse, so he’ll be used to the atmosphere,” said Jo, a vet at Buckingham Equine Vets. “I’m desperate that it all goes well so that next year’s champions can enjoy the same privilege. It’s a fantastic prize for us — something that money can’t buy.”

Morgan Schive, 18, has opted to borrow Sue McKim’s Irish draught stallion Cos Me Is Black — who was featured as an H&H hunt hero this season — as Nightwatchman might “find the occasion too much to handle”.

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” said Morgan, an equine management student at Hadlow College. “And a chance to showcase side saddle, which is my passion.”

This article was first published in Horse & Hound magazine (27 March 2014)

Cut a dash in a festive side saddle habit

Horse & Hound — Thu, 05 Dec 2013 16:00:11 +0000

Stuck for something festive to wear at your Boxing Day meet?

Festooning your horse with tinsel is so last season. Put the rest of the field to shame with this Father Christmas side saddle habit.

They were made by Shirley Anderson (pictured) for herself, two daughters and a friend to wear on a Christmas charity ride near their home in Saintfield, Co Down, two years ago.

Now that the family has downsized to one horse, Shirley feels it is time for “someone else to get out and have a bit of craic with them”.

She has already sold 2 on eBay and the remaining 2, both size 10, are for sale through Equishop in Saintfield, price £75.

“They’re good-quality fleece so the apron hangs well. I wore it with a hunt stock, shirt and waistcoat,” said Shirley.

Her habits — based on an Alexander James pattern — have even won the approval of side saddle guru Roger Philpott.

And there’s no need to agonise over whether to wear a bowler or top hat —they come complete with a Santa “silk” you can pull over your crash hat. A veil is optional.

This article first appeared in H&H 5 December 2013.

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Fred, who was by Java Tiger out of a Connemara mare, began his career under Helen Summers (nee Clubley) who first stumbled across his advert in the pages of Horse & Hound (H&H).

Helen enjoyed three seasons with Fred before he was sold to the Andrews family.

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His other accolades included the Royal Windsor ladies’ title, the Royal Show supreme and multiple titles at the Show Hack and Cob Association (now the British Show Horse Association) championships.

“Helen had done an amazing job with him prior to him joining our family,” Georgina added. “I could count on one hand how many times he was beaten in side-saddle classes, a good thing really as he always fly-bucked on the lap of honour if he was second; he hated it!

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“We owe them a lot for giving him such a good retirement,” said Georgina. “He was the biggest character who we will all miss greatly.”

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Their appearance at Hartpury was made all the more special as it was owner Alastair Finlay’s wife, Louisa’s birthday and she flew in from work in Barcelona to watch their special horse.

“He is just lovely, he tries really hard,” said Jade, who scored 64.31% with the 10-year-old gelding. “We had a couple of little mistakes but I think without my right leg sometimes we just have a little miscommunication.

“We had a little canter in one of the corners, because he is waiting to see what we’re going to do and if I’m not 100% on it sometimes he just offers me what he thinks is the right answer, which is lovely because he wants to do well.

“For an elementary silver under side-saddle and his first time being at Hartpury, he did really well. I was chuffed with him.”

It was Alastair who first suggested Jade give side-saddle a try a little over a year ago.

“I was riding the horse for Alastair on the flat, because he was getting a new hip, and one day in February he said, ‘Why don’t we give side-saddle ago?’ she said.

“The next thing, Alastair had a saddle over from Ireland, then we were on and off we went. Caroline Maclean Nelson comes regularly – she really helped us get going with the showing – and we train with Penny Clark when she’s in Scotland as well.

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“The cane that I use is a replacement for my leg, rather than being used as a whip, so it’s the pressure from the cane that asks him move over, and when I turn I’ve got to make sure my seat is in the right place so he knows where we’re going.”

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Lois bought the part-bred Hanoverian gelding six years ago; she was looking for a horse with whom to regain her confidence after a nasty accident.

“I was looking for something about 15.2hh and about 10, and I ended up with a 16.2hh 14-year-old!” she said. “But they say the right horse finds you. He was dressage-bred but had been a hunting horse and he was being sold by the rider’s husband, who I don’t think really knew what he had.

“I just looked at him and thought ‘You’re a bit special’, and I was right.”

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“You can do BD side-saddle, as long as you check the secretary and judge are happy, and it’s a really good way of showing that you can still teach veterans new tricks!” Lois said.

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