Inspirational equestrian recognised at horsescotland awards

A carriage driving trainer who has been suffering from cancer has been named coach of the year at the 2014 horsescotland awards.

Amanda Saville told H&H she was “thrilled” to win at the ceremony last week (27 February).

“For the past three years I’ve been fighting cancer and going through lots of treatment so it was even more special to be awarded the coach of the year award,” she said.

Amanda has been running the Chariots of Fire Driving Centre in Boreland near Lockerbie for 20 years.

She trains indoor carriage driving champion Chris Ainscough and is also working with severely disabled children and adults.

“There isn’t a syndrome or disability we cannot coach. We are always looking for solutions so people can fulfil their dreams,” said Amanda.

The other award winners announced at the ceremony at Westerwood Hotel and Golf Resort, Cumbernauld were:

· Volunteer of the year: Anne Logan

· Performer of the year: Wills Oakden

· Equine breeder of the year: MFS Studfarm

· Equestrian Business of the year: Tannoch Stables

· Club of the Year: Sports Driving Unlimited

A final special award was also presented to Jane Cepok for her “huge contribution to all disciplines of equestrianism”.

She was nominated by British Horse Society Scotland and the Pony Club for the 2015 lifetime achievement award.

“Much of the success of our riders, drivers and vaulters is down to the quality of the coaches and the commitment of the thousands of volunteers whose efforts are invaluable,” said Billy Bell, chief operating officer of horsescotland.

Ronnie Young, chair of horsescotland, said the awards “are a fantastic opportunity for the equestrian community to come together and celebrate Scotland’s substantial equestrian success over the past 12 months.”

“We will continue to drive forward a number of exciting programmes and initiatives in the year ahead and will work closely with its member bodies to put in place a world-class system for Scottish equestrianism that ensures the welfare of the horse,” he added.

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