RDA Championships draw in competitors and celebrity guests

The Riding for the Disabled Association’s (RDA) National Championships (10-11 July) were bigger than ever this year, with more than 450 competitors, taking part in dressage, the countryside challenge, vaulting, horse care and knowledge, arts and crafts, best turned out and the musical ride.

This makes the event at Hartpury College bigger than the Paralympics and Para World Championships combined.

“It’s been a special year for the National Championships,” said championship chairman Doug Smith.

“We are delighted to have been visited by so many special guests, but it is always the individual achievements of our competitors that we remember most at the end of the day.

“And none of that could happen without the outstanding level of professionalism, the commitment of the volunteers and supporters, and the determination of groups who overcome many challenges to get here.”

Visitors included the charity’s president, the Princess Royal, and Paralympians Lee Pearson, Sophie Christianson and Ricky Balshaw, and BBC sports presenter Clare Balding.

The Princess presented the first ever President’s Awards for outstanding service.

She also received a cheque from Countrywide Stores for £55,000 and the company announced that the RDA has been chosen as Countrywide’s staff charity of the year again this year.

The RDA is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year

For more information about The National Championships and Riding for the Disabled Association, please visit www.rda.org.uk

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