Friday 13th to Sunday 15th July
Hartpury College, Gloucestershire
West Mercia Results
What is West Mercia RDA?
West Mercia RDA incorporates the 5 counties:
• Herefordshire • Shropshire • Staffordshire • Warwickshire • Worcestershire
The 5 counties embrace 36 RDA Member Groups delivering riding, carriage driving and vaulting for disabled people in their local area. These groups are run and supported by volunteers who are specially trained to deliver fulfilling, challenging and rewarding experiences using the horse and pony to achieve positive outcomes.
If you want to Volunteer for RDA:
If you or someone you know is looking for a new challenge, or just the chance to socialise and have fun. Why not volunteer to help those that would benefit from equine assisted therapy.
With the support of people like you, who cheerfully give up their free time to help by investing a couple of hours each week, we can continue to provide our life-changing activities and increase provision to include the many needy people who are currently missing out.
RDA’s core activities are Carriage Driving, Vaulting (like gymnastics on horseback), Riding including Dressage, Show Jumping,Endurance and the latest Showing. RDA Groups may provide all or some of these activities, so start by contacting your nearest RDA Group to see what's on offer, or chat to us about what you would like to do and find out how we may be able to help.It's good for: All ages and abilities, Great physiotherapy, Suitable for physical and learning difficulties, is recommended by Medical Professionals and can helps with education, in a Focused Environment.
How can I find out more?
RDA Groups may provide all or some of these activities, so start by contacting your nearest RDA Group to see what's on offer, or chat to us about what you would like to do and find out how we may be able to help.
Contact your RDA County Chairman
Herefords & Worcester 01981 540773 or 01905 780692
Shropshire 01691 656805 Staffordshire 01785 824041
Warwickshire 01675 467676
West Mercia RDA Regional Chairman 01691 661128
Latest News
Oct 19
SCROLL DOWN FOR LATEST NEWS
The Marches Group Celebrates 50 Years of RDA
Greeted with the customary RDA open welcome and blessed with a warm sunny morning it was a true pleasure to be part of the Marches Group 50th Celebration on Thursday. And what a morning it was.
The “Marches” ride at Pen Y Coed Riding Stables on the edge of the England/Wales border. The Group can trace its long history back to the founding days of RDA via a link to the local market town of Oswestry. Not that they want to look backwards, rather they are a team of forward looking enthusiasts that make full use of the Stables’ facilities. Supported by owners George, Jim and mum Pam Hanson the weekly sessions now take place in a superb new indoor school. The outdoor ménage is also first class on fine days, “and we have delightful hacks on properly prepared and safe tracks straight from the yard” beamed Clare Bellison the Group Chairman.
In short the Group is ideally situated, superbly organised and set fair under the tutelage of George, who is also Coach, to deliver enjoyable, well structured and progressive sessions to 7 adult riders throughout the year. Oops, make that 8 riders for a new rider, Natalie, was on hand for her first “come and have a look visit” and can’t wait for her riding experience to get cracking after half term.
Ed Bracher the Chief Executive made a special visit for the morning to present much deserved awards and was delighted with the Group’s energy and obvious positive benefits that were on show. In thanking the Team Anona White the Regional Chairman highlighted the vision and progressive attitude of all involved in running and supporting the Group. Oh yes, and its thanks from me for delicious cake!
Regional Volunteer of the Year
“Di” Poole is like most of the hundreds of Volunteers that I
have met, enthusiastic, conscientious, determined, committed and
energetic. The trait which sets her out
for me is her self-effacing approach.
Derwen Group thrives today having been “reborn” towards the end of 2017
on the short notice closure of their venue. Di was rock steady in the ensuing turmoil and
immediately set about to continue delivering support to the Group’s
participants.
Crises in RDA happen but their management by calm, business like and thoughtful volunteers is what counts. A new venue, new volunteers and an ensuing increase in participants are the outcome that Di and her colleagues produced. Furthermore the meticulous delivery of the important paraphernalia that needs to be in place, the commitment to coaching excellence and the creation of a safe and harmonious backdrop all fell to Di and a small core team. That she achieved all of this whilst still “leading one up” and “picking the poo” is testament to her willing nature and unswerving commitment to her riders.
Fundraising is a taboo to many, not so for Di. In the year she encouraged colleagues at the Oswestry Golf Club (her very busy day job) that a sponsored day for RDA would be mutually beneficial. The day was a great success giving West Mercia Region a chance to raise awareness of our bigger picture amongst many of the Region’s and local influencers. Di put this plan together, secured much of the sponsorship and brought in countless donations of prizes. And she achieved all of this without fuss or personal fanfare.
This irrepressible work hungry volunteer typifies all that is good in the positive story that is RDA. I am supported by the County and Regional Committees in recommending that she is richly deserving of our highest recognition.
Whittington & Lichfield
50th Ball
Looks as if a good evening was had by all Thanks to everyone they raised £2000
REA VALLEY GROUP 1 OCTOBER 2019
“...and we ALWAYS have Cake”!
So were the proud words of the Rea Valley Group in Shropshire in their celebration of 50 Years of RDA. This came at the end of a very energetic, well delivered and most positive morning where a dozen riders were put through their paces. Click for Full report
Stafford Group's
Celebrating RDA's 50th
Countryfile went to Hartpury one day
To see the good work that is RDA
A charity that is 50 years old
And encourages the disabled that they
can be bold
A meet with a horse to learn how to ride
So friends and family are filled with great pride
Because it’s not what hinders or gives you strife
RDA is about what improves your life
For 50 years folk have tried their best
To provide excitement after which you can rest
So when you need a lift, a smile
or to just have fun
Then come to RDA,
they are second to none.
Frequently Asked Questions
Physiotherapists within RDA:
Hippotherapy:
The Chartered Physiotherapists in Therapeutic Riding and Hippotherapy (CPTRH)
"Friendly Massage Table Specialists"
www.massagewarehouse.co.uk
Forthcoming Events and Training dates
updated Oct 19
RDA CREATIVE WRITING COMPETITION 2020
We’re excited to announce that the ever-popular RDA Creative Writing Competition is back for 2020!
As in previous years, we will still be offering classes for poetry, short stories and letter-writing, and entries can be submitted in any format, such as pen, print, pencil, Makaton symbols. Braille and pieces written in languages other than English can also be entered, but should include a transcription/translation, to assist the judges
for more details go to: www.myrda.org.uk website.the event page
Hereford & Worcester
50th Quiz and Supper
Friday 22nd Nov
7pm
Arley Kings Village Hall,
Arley Common
Stourport on Severn
DY13 0NB
Tickets £12.00 per person
which will include supper.
There will not be a bar so please bring your own drinks.
Max 6 persons per team
Enter as many teams as you like
Quiz starts 7.15 prompt
Tickets & info available from
Jeannie Bird 07803 048705
Chris Fetcher 07870 354742
WEST MERCIA REGION
TRAINING DAYS
Horse Care & Knowledge Module
Friday 25th October 2019
Lowlands Equestrian Centre
CV35 7AX
12noon – 3pm
to book email
karen_m_arnold@hotmail.com
Pre-coach Training Module
Thursday 7th November
6pm-8pm,
Stourport Riding School
DY13 9JD
Grey’s Cafe.
to book email
helenrscott64@gmail.com
Safe Guarding
Friday 8th November
Lowlands Equestrian Centre
10.30-1.30
course full email:
anonamay@btinternet.com
if you wish go on waiting list
Staffordshire County Training
RDA Volunteer Training
RODBASTON COLLEGE
ON
WEDNESDAY 13TH NOVEMBER
6.30pm - 8.30pm
TEA, COFFEE & BISCUITS will be provided
This training will be both Practical and Classroom Based. We aim to cover Mounting and Dismounting, Leading, Side walking and elements of Health and Safety to include Risk Assessments.
to book please email:
m_leather@hotmail.com
Training in adjacent regions
Coaching Module
Friday
15th Novemeber
Watershed
Stables, Cirencester
All
day
to book
https://www.myrda.org.uk/events/coach-certificate-coaching-module-mid-west/
National Coaches Training
Clwyd Special Riding Centre
Llanfyndd Wrexham LL11 5HN
24th November 2019 10 am—4 pm
Spaces on this training day are £10 per person.
Please bring your own lunch.
Bookings and payment to be made through this link
This will be repeated in Spring 2020 Venue TBC but South of West Mercia
Sunday 1st December,
Pre Coach and Medical and therapy
at
Ride2Achieve,
to book contact Helen Powell, County Coach
hchamber6113@msn.com
Medical Module for the Coaching Certificate
Spring 2020
Venue and Date TBC
6pm-9pm
to book email
Doug Smith
receiving the
Presidents Award
Congratulations
Well done to everyone that competed at this years Nationals
Wyre Forest Riders
end of term Summer show only possible with the wonderful team of volunteers
WARWICKSHIRE
FUN DAY 2019
Possibly one of the wettest days of the summer saw the Warwickshire Fun Day take place at Lowlands Equestrian Centre, National HQ of RDA, recently opened by HRH The Princess Royal.
Well what a day was had by all at the Regional Qualifier.
Thank you to everyone who helped make the day happen,
High Riders Group
celebrated 21 short years with a smashing birthday tea and magnificent cake, which was beautifully cut by Abi and Spike, the Group's first riders.
Congratulations
Susan Moore,
Jackie Doughton
Lauren and Amy Fitzpatrick on passing the
Bronze Horse Care
Jan 2019
Congratulations
&
Good Luck to
Stratford upon Avon RDA Group
who has been nominated for
2 awards at the
Pride of Stratford District Awards
Sophie for the Young Achiever Award, and the Group for the Community Impact Award.
Results will be announced on Friday 8th February 2019
Kyre Group Pony
Vizzy
receives Long Service award after 20 years in harness.
Whittington and Lichfield Group expand
SHROPSHIRE YOUNG FARMERS DO US PROUD
Jacky Whittle collects a massive
£3750
from Clarrie Hocknell, the outgoing Chairman of Shropshire Young Farmers following a tremendous year in which she and countless companions undertook
"12 Challenges"
to bring RDA to the notice of Young Farmers throughout the Land. We are grateful for their endeavour and for their massive support.
See full article on Shropshire page.
The Stratford upon Avon Riding for the Disabled group is delighted that Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal joined them to celebrate its 50th Anniversary.
As part of the visit some of its riders gave two short demonstrations watched by guests made up of its Founder, Mrs Beryl Sainsbury.
National Championships
WYRE FOREST GROUP
SUMMER SHOW
July 5th
And what a wonderful sight to be welcomed by such a smashing team of enthusiastic volunteers all of whom were decked out in a vivid blue tee shirt specially made for the day. It was a great idea as it let the dozens of new faces who had come to watch and support, just who to turn to for answers or advice.
Full report on Worcestershire page
Regional Qualifiers
Well done to everyone who competed and good luck to all who qualified for the Championships in July.
Full results on Result Page
Congratulations
Max and his team
made it to
Everest Base Camp
Regional Fund Raising
Golf Day
Oswestry Golf Club
A Huge thank you to the President and Members of Oswestry Golf Club for hosting our Charity Day.
Their generosity and freely given effort enabled us to raise a substantial pot of money.
Winning Golf Team
SHROPSHIRE COUNTY VOLUNTARY WORK RECOGNISED
Over 430 years of loyal and dedicated
service to the disabled community of Shropshire was recognised on Tuesday.
Volunteers from across the County gathered at Walford and North Shropshire
College which hosted the County’s Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA)
annual collective training day.
Jacky Whittle from Brockton Court RDA Group (Kemberton) is the County Chairman who put on the day. “We try to use quiet periods to gather volunteers so we can provide continuous professional development and bring people bang up to date with policy developments and training hints from National Office. And at the same time we like to acknowledge and recognise volunteers who give their energy, enthusiasm and time freely to help others.”
Peter Dickin of the Ludlow and District Group was presented his certificate and award recognising 40 years of service, Pat McGregor of the Baschurch & Loppington Group (35 years). Peter commented "that he always looked forward to seeing his friends and members of RDA at his stables and he hopes, to carry on to see if he can reach a number with 5 in it”.
Paralympic Superstars
Sophie Christiansen CBE,
Clive Milkins and Rio
proudly on hand to open the new arena named after Murphy a much loved now treasured in hte memory of all at Ride2Achieve.
RIDE 2 ACHIEVE SHOWS OFF PROGRESS
Redbrook Farm near Hereford opened its doors this week when Ride 2 Achieve RDA Group welcomed visitors, participants, friends and families to see the excellent forward strides made so far. Home to Ride 2 Achieve for 18 short months it is easy to see how the vision, enthusiasm and drive shown by Janet Alderton and her team have come together.
What an end of the year
Sophie Evans-Lee from Stratford upon Avon RDA group who, in front of her proud Dad Gareth and Grandmother Gill, was awarded the Stratford upon Avon Junior Para Sports award 2018 for her achievements in horse riding at the presentation dinner held on 19th January.
Sophie has also been shortlisted for for the Pride of Stratford award for Young Achievers
with the winner of this award being being announced on 9th February. Both awards are in partnership with Touch FM radio following her nominations that listed her achievements with horseriding
Sophie at the RDA Nationals
THE BIG RIDE COM
What a beautiful Day! The sun shone on us as we witnessed Sam Orde and a huge group of RDA families and friends, old and new, trot up around Lowlands Farm. Lowlands is soon to become the RDA National Training Centre and Sam has ridden hundreds of miles around all 18 regions covering 20 venues accompanied by countless riders, walkers and carriages in her special effort to raise funds for the project. Sam’s drive, leadership and commitment to the project have been exemplary so it was fitting that she finished the challenge in Warwickshire.
Full report on Warwickshire page
Shropshire’s Cavalier Centre
which for so long had been the dream of so many is finally on its way.
The Champagne and chocolate cake may not have said it all, but it was certainly a pointer to the future.
The Perry Riding School founded by Jane Barker in 1995, has been sited at her Shrewsbury home. The committed president who has been to the county to boost the project is the Marquis of Hertford and so many hopes now rest in the scheme that those involved in achieving it are determined to go the extra mile.
At the formal launch, Catherine, Lady Forester was on hand to cut the first turf.
See what we are up to and contribute using the link below to
RDA Coaching & Ideas
Contact your
RDA County Chairman
Herefordshire
01981 540773
Shropshire
07814 014006
Staffordshire
01785 824041
Warwickshire
01675 467676
Worcestershire
01905 780692
or
West Mercia RDA Regional Chairman
01691 661128
We will help you find a suitable Group
Recent Activities ...
National Championships
2017 Results
Friday 14th – Sunday 16th July 2017 at Hartpury College, Gloucestershire
The RDA National Championships is RDA’s flagship event, bringing together hundreds of competitors of all abilities in events including Dressage, Countryside Challenge, Vaulting, Horse Care & Knowledge, Arts & Crafts, Best Turned Out and Musical Ride
Congratulations to all competitors at this years Championships
and here for
West Mercia results
Musical Ride Success
Another first for Stratford upon Avon Group, as several of our riders gain "Getting Started" Endurance awards.
Riders and helpers enjoyed taking time checks at 0.5 km, 1 km, 1.5 km and 2 km markers around the tracks, adding focus and interest to our usual hacks. Well done Scarlett Jess and Archie for achieving 1km, and Anna, Jules, Peter, Fi, Issy, Louis, Ellis, Sasha, Harry and Lewis for covering 2 km at nearly 5km/hr. Huge thanks to our helpers who "power walked" to keep up with our enthusiastic riders! Here's some riders receiving their certificate and rosettes. “
REGIONAL TEAM USES THE SUMMER TO PROMOTE AWARENESS
"We have a great link with the Pony Club so let's see if we can help each other raise our profiles", and the display boards and fliers were brought out again. The Area 7 PC SJ Championships was the opportunity to let over 200 competitors, their family and friends in on the RDA secret. "Chatting on a one to one basis really was a great way to get our message across to folks, especially to those parents who are sometimes "flummoxed" when sons and daughters say they have to do something good for their D Of E and the like. We have had many follow up enquiries about volunteering and youngsters seeking detail about the YELA Scheme and the raffle made some money as a bonus.
Cardington and Rushbury Young Farmers Club
presented Shropshire County RDA and the Air Ambulance cheques for £1000.
Seen below receiving the cheque on behalf of Shropshire RDA
County Chairman Jackie Whittle and County Coach Lynne Munro.
Derwen RDA Group
3 riders and helpers on their last riding day before breaking for the summer holidays. Had their own RDA Big Ride to help raise funds for the National RDA Centre at Lowlands Warwickshire. They rode around the fields at Walford College where they are now based. Thanks to the Walford Equestrian staff for helping to make this possible and raise £150.
Well done Guys.
Warwickshire
Fun Day 2017
COACHING SKILLS AND ENTHUSIASM RECOGNISED
At the 2017 Warwickshire Fun Day, our Group Coach Karen was presented the Warwickshire County Trophy by our County Chair, Rosie, for outstanding services to the RDA Groups in the County over the past year. Karen is not only our Coach who has helped our riders to achieve great results at what ever their ability, but also helps at Lowlands and holds the post of County Coach giving advice and support to all the Warwickshire Groups. A well deserved award. Congratulations Karen and thank you from all of us at Stratford for all the tireless hours you give to us.
STAFFORDSHIRE COUNTY
FUN DAY 2017
Some prize winners
