BREAKING NEWS - 
...
7 AUGUST 2016
DOUBLE BRONZE FOR TEAM GBR AT PARA EQUESTRIAN DRIVING WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS
Although the Netherlands were unassailable in the team competition Great Britain picked up team Bronze and an individual medal for Deborah Daniel in the Grade 1.
Full report to follow
14 July 2016
PARA-EQUESTRIAN DRIVERS SELECTED FOR WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS
Following a final selection event (8-10 July) and intensive training (11- 13 July) held at Ashfields Carriage and Polo Centre, Essex, two members of the Para-Equestrian team have so far been named to represent Great Britain at the Para-Equestrian World Championships to be held in Beesd, Holland, from 3rd to 6th August 2016.
Experienced World Championship competitor Debbie Daniels and her grey pony Valeside Galaxy (Sparky), along with newcomer Jamie Williams and his chestnut gelding Glenside Chosen One (Glen), will be on the team, with the third member to be declared in Beesd.
Accompanying Debbie and Jamie to Beesd will be Sarah Baverstock (Kelly), Lucy Barclay (Bishop Blue) and Emily Ham (Alfie).
One of these will be selected to join Debbie and Jamie in the team, the other two will compete as individuals.
Chef d’Equipe is Rachel Belliere-Wilson; she said: “With the venue and date of the World Championships being announced late, selectors have had to analyse performance across mainstream competition and para-driver classes as well as assessing everyone during training.
We have selected Debbie and Jamie based on their consistent progress and competitive success; at Ashfields Debbie won the Para-Driver Open Championship while Jamie, who is showing great talent, was very close behind to finish Reserve Champion.
“With a few considerations to keep in mind and with the significant improvements made over the past three days of training by all turnouts, we have, with full consultation of the squad, agreed that we will hold off making the decision about the third team member until we have to declare the team on-site. It was unanimously agreed that this was in the best interests of the team.
“We are indebted to Ashfields and in particular to Zoe Morgan for making this all happen. She makes it look so easy when we know it isn't, and she is totally accommodating; always with time for you to ask a question or add in another request! The wonderful training facilities at Ashfields have prepared the team as well as it possibly can be for the World Championships ahead.”
The squad will be arriving at Beesd on Monday 1st August and, following final team and individual declaration, will compete on Thursday, Friday and Saturday in dressage, marathon and cones respectively.
Rachel will be assisted by Julie Camm with Sarah Howe continuing in her role as team coach.
14 June 2016
PARA-EQUESTRIANS AIM FOR WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS
Britain’s para-equestrian carriage drivers are setting their sights on team selection for the 2016 World Championships. Announced only recently, the prestigious event will take place in Beesd, Holland, from 3 to 6 August.
Those putting their names forward competed at the recent British Carriagedriving (BC) Windsor Park Regional event with final selection being made after the BC National at Ashfields, Essex, which takes place from 8 to 10 July. This event will also host the British Para-Equestrian National Open title.
Among the team hopefuls of established drivers such as Debbie Daniel, Lucy Barclay, Sarah Baverstock and Judi Ralls will be newcomers Jamie Williams, who won the Para class at Windsor, and Emily Ham. Debbie, Lucy and Sarah were among the British representatives at the last World Championships held on home turf at Sandringham in 2014 where Lucy finished individual fourth. Individual Bronze medallist at Sandringham, Mick Ward, is unavailable for Beesd.
Chef d’Equipe will be Rachel Belliere-Wilson assisted by Julie Camm with Sarah Howe continuing in her role as team coach. 
Photo: ADW Media - Lucy Barclay performing dressage at the 2014 Para-equestrian World Championships
8 March 2016
GET READY & BOOK IN FOR APRIL TRAINING
Running on 23 and 24 April at Stow on the Wold this course is for drivers bringing their own turnout. It is open to disabled drivers driving their own or borrowed turnouts, also members of RDA Groups bringing an RDA turnout. RDA Whips or helpers who wish to improve their own skills are also accepted if places are available. RDA Stella Hancock Grants can be used to pay towards the course.
Anybody who just wishes to come and watch and learn or help is very welcome to do so at no cost other than for meals.
The course is on a first come first served basis, so if you are interested in attending or even if you are not ready to send in the forms please can you let Margaret Brockie know.
If you have a pony who is fit enough and you would be happy for another driver to take part please let Margaret know. This could reduce your travel and stabling costs and allow an RDA driver or RDA Whip/Coach to gain valuable experience.
Click here to download the application form.
3 February 2016
AMANDA SAVILLE - A true inspiration
"there's no such word as can't"
It is with immense sadness that we received the news that Amanda Saville had died peacefully, still smiling, in the arms of her husband John, on Friday 12 February. There can be few people who touched the lives of so many. Her enthusiasm and dedication to helping others was legendary.
Amanda's enthusiasm for the sport extended far and wide. She would arrive at events in a truly massive lorry, out of which spilled numerous kids, ponies and carriages. Amanda’s own competition record was excellent. Her speciality was the marathon where she flew round obstacles and was the one everyone had to beat. She was Single Pony National Champion in 2002. Despite battling through her cancer treatment, Amanda competed in National events and the National Championships with her pony four in 2013. She won the Open Pony Pairs National Championships in 2014 and competed again in 2015 where she finished 4th overall (but had the fasted marathon of course!)
Her Chariots of Fire Display Team travelled around the country bringing driving, in many forms, to crowds at large agricultural shows. She had a pair, put to a magic carriage, which split into 2 single turnouts. She launched her carriages over jumps, flew through burning hoops and even proved you could safely drive a cow!
Amanda's inspiration & belief that anyone could, should push through their boundaries to a more exciting and fulfilled life led to the establishment of Sports Driving Unlimited. For 8 years she led a team of coaches who trained disabled people to develop carriage driving skills with enormous life changing success. People of all ages with a wide range of disabilities were introduced to the pleasure of carriage driving and inevitably, encouraged to enjoy driving trials, proving that even blindness is no barrier if you want to do something. Together with the Sports Driving Unlimited team, Amanda and husband John Nisbett were an invincible force to be reckoned with and together would travel with teams of young and disabled drivers to compete at driving events both indoors and outdoors and for the past six years travelled with individuals to compete in the National Novice Para Championships at Escrick, Henbury and more recently, Sandringham.
In 2015 Amanda was awarded the accolade of Disability Coach of the Year by sportscotland at their Coaching, Officiating and Volunteering Awards ceremony. She was recognised for the outstanding contribution she makes to the lives of the people she works with. Amanda will be remembered with great affection and admiration by so many people. She’ll never stop smiling! 
A celebration of Amanda’s life will be held at Dryfesdale Church, Lockerbie, DG11 2AA, on Tuesday 23rd February at 11am, and thereafter to Hutton Churchyard, Boreland at 1pm. Hospitality will be offered at the Somerton House Hotel, Lockerbie, DG11 2DR, from approx. 1.30 onwards. Parking around the church is restricted but there is a large car park at Tesco about half a mile away. Amanda requested that in lieu of flowers donations should be made to the charity Sports Driving Unlimited if so desired: www.localgiving.com/appeal/amanda. She also wanted the service to be a celebration and upbeat, so please come dressed accordingly (warm)! 01 January 2016
DOWNLOAD THE 2016 MEMBERSHIP - Click here to download
21 November 2015
STEPPING FORWARD INTO 2016 - TRAINING DATES ANNOUNCED
Are you already planning your activities for next year's diary, then you put the dates in your diary of the 2016 CDSG courses running at the Unicorn Trust, Stow on the Wold
* 23-24th April 2016
* 8-9th October 2016
If you are interested in attending any of these sessions, please contact Margaret Brockie - who will be able to provide you with further information. Application forms will be sent out to those keen to attend 6 weeks beforehand.
4 November 2015
BUDDING ATHLETES UNITE AT PARA SPORTS EVENT TO INSPIRE NEXT GENERATION OF ATHLETES OFTHE FUTURE
The Para sports event run on 25 October proved to be a great success with a number of different sports uniting to inspire future athletes to get involved in Para Sports. Medallists from both Para driving and Para dressage were on hand to explain to prospective athletes of the future how they could get involved.
Para Driving Medallists & CDSG-dd members Lucy Barclay, Deborah Daniels, Lindsey Tyas Paice and Mick Ward represented the CDSG-dd at the event and spoke with a number of people keen to know more about the sport, pathway opportunities and how to get involved.
Anglia News video clip from the Para Sports Event
Further details to follow
21 October 2015
INSPIRING EVENT FOR DISABILIITY SPORT HEADS TO NORTHAMPTON
On 25 October 2015 six Paralympic sports will be coming together for a host of demonstrations, information and ‘have a go’ sessions at the inaugural regional Para Sport Event. Moulton College, Northamptonshire, will be opening their doors to welcome guests to discover how to get started in disability sport and a taste of the opportunities available.
Hoof, the British Equestrian Federation’s participation programme, will be hosting a range of para sports on the day including para-rowing, para-sailing, wheelchair basketball, archery, para-cycling, para-equestrian driving and para-equestrian dressage, with advice and help for those looking to take their first steps into disability sports.
Special guest, London 2012 Paralympic gold medallist, Sophie Wells MBE will be on hand for coaching guidance and advice on getting involved in para-equestrian dressage during the live demonstrations and at the para-dressage stand, where Hoof, the British Equestrian Federation’s participation programme mechanical horse will be giving free taster sessions throughout the day; “Lots of people will see disability sports but not know how they can get involved, that is the biggest hurdle, there are lots of sports out there and this gives people the opportunity to try different sports” comments Sophie.
Demonstrations in the main equine arena will give people the chance to see first-hand para-equestrian dressage as participants currently involved with Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) and British Dressage showcase the sport. Long-time member and volunteer of Scropton RDA in Derbyshire Matthew Dalley hopes his demonstration ride will “inspire someone to get involved in sport and improve their life through it” having seen the impact horse riding has had on his own life;
“Riding has always been really important to me and has helped me to progress in many different ways. It has challenged me, given me goals and ambitions, motivated me, given me confidence and self-belief. It has helped me grow stronger both physically and mentally.
Matthew enthuses; “I am really excited to be a part of the event. I want to show what can be achieved even when you have a lot of challenges to overcome.”
Hoof hopes the day will give even more people the chance to discover the different sports that are on offer and looks to open the regional event up to more locations in the future.
Admission to this interactive day packed with information and detail about disability sport is absolutely free!
More information about the day can be found at http://www.bef.co.uk/Detail.aspx?page=ParaSportEvent2015
To sign up for free tickets please visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/para-sport-event-tickets-187…
30 September 2015
PARA SPORT EVENT 2015
Inspired by the success of National Paralympic Day earlier this year, Hoof, the British Equestrian Federation’s participation programme, is bringing several para sports together to give even more people the chance to see and try a range of disability sports at the first ever Para Sport Event 2015.
Hosted at Moulton College in Northamptonshire, the free regional event will celebrate the disability sports on offer and also introduce people to para sports by giving them the opportunity to find out more and try some out for themselves.
From 9.30am on Sunday 25 October attendees will have the chance to give a variety of Paralympic sports. Sports on the day include: para-equestrian dressage, para-cycling, para-sailing, wheelchair basketball, para-rowing and archery.
Timetable - 25 October 2015 9.30am Gates Open – The Cafeteria will be open to purchase refreshments throughout the day
10.00am – 12.00pm Main Indoor Equestrian Arena: Introduction to Para-Equestrian Dressage – Demonstration by para-equestrian dressage riders about how to get started in the sport and the requirements of the sport
11.00am – 3.00pm Pitsford Sports Hall: The sports hall will be open for you to get information from experts form a number of para sports all in one building! We have confirmed attendance from British Cycling, British Rowing, British Sailing Sailability, Wheelchair Basketball and Para -equestrian Dressage. There will be an opportunity for you to ‘have a go’ at some sports mobile demonstration units.
2.00pm – 4.00pm Main Indoor Equestrian Arena: Introduction to Para-Equestrian Dressage – Demonstration by para-equestrian dressage riders about how to get started in to the sport and the requirements of the sport
4.30pm Gates Close
Directions and tickets to attend the Para Sports event: Admission to this event is FREE!
The event will be held at Moulton College Pitsford Campus which is Gate 4 on the Pitsford Road out of Moulton Village. Postcode for SatNav: NN3 7QL. More detailed directions can be found at: http://www.moulton.ac.uk/the-college/life-at-moulton/campus-maps?cpm=moulton-campus-pitsford-centre
You may pre-register by clicking HERE.
We look forward to seeing you on the day!
10 August 2015
OCTOBER TRAINING AT STOW
10-11 October - Training at the Unicorn Centre, Stow on the Wold. Please contact Margaret Brockie if you are interested in attending. Even if you are not ready to send in the forms please can you let Margaret know if you think you will be coming or, if you are a regular, please let her know if you are not. Click here to download the application form.
7 July 2015
NATIONAL CHAMPION CROWNED AT SANDRINGHAM
The Para-Equestrian National Championships took place at Sandringham (26 – 28 June); the Open title being contested during the British Carriagedriving National and International competition while the Novice Championship was hosted by East Anglia Carriage Driving Group during its club event which ran concurrently.
The Novice contestants, all members of the Sports Driving Unlimited group based in Scotland had quite a fight on their hands until Charlotte Thomson came through to retain her crown. After dressage, Charlotte and Lewis Shaw – who is guided only by Amanda Nisbet’s voice as he cannot see – were tied first on 56.0 penalties with Graham Smith hot on their heels on 56.2. All drove clear with time penalties in the cones phase with Lewis the quickest of the three. However, his fortunes changed in the marathon where he incurred time penalties on Section A although he was only marginally slower than Graham through the obstacles. But it was Charlotte who stormed through to win by 14.85 penalties overall from Graham with Lewis a highly creditable third. 
In the Open Championship Deborah Daniel regained the title she won in 2011 and 2012 with an all-the-way win, having posted a 49.12 dressage score to give herself a healthy lead over Mick Ward (63.22) and Lucy Barclay (63.54). Mick, who won the title in 2013 and 2014, sadly had to give best after Section A of the marathon as his pony, Toby, did not feel right and he withdrew. Driving Judy Hilditch’s Bishop Blue, Lucy was just 6.91 penalties adrift of Deborah on the marathon but her dressage deficit and six cones down left her as Reserve Champion.
Click here to see more photos
12 June 2015
MARGARET BROCKIE AWARDED MBE
IN QUEEN'S BIRTHDAY HONOURS
I am sure you will all join me in congratulating long standing CDSG-dd member Margaret Brockie on being awarded the MBE for services to the community and to Carriage Driving through her work with Riding for the Disabled Association. Margaret is the Chairman of Driving for the Disabled and is heavily involved in introducing disabled people to the sport.
As many of you will be aware as well as being the RDA Carriage Driving Chairman, an ambassador within RDA driving, she is also a member od the CDSG-dd has been since its set up in 2002 where she was one of a number of individuals involved in its set up., She now organises the CDSG-dd training at The Unicorn Trust, Stow on the Wold twice a year and is renowned for introducing drivers to the sport with her beloved RDA pony "Sweet Pea". Margaret of Great Lever, Bolton, said: "I feel very honoured to have been given this award."
Margaret was also recently presented during the 40th celebration of driving for the disabled at the Unicorn Trust with an award from Princess Anne for her long service in helping disabled people get into carriage driving.
13 January 2015
RDA & BRITISH DRESSAGE NATIONAL CLASSIFICATION POLICY FOR PARA-EQUESTRIANS
RDA and British Dressage have launched a National Classification Policy for Para-equestrian which is designed to give clearer guidance and offer a more structured system in line with that used by the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI). Coming into effect from January 1st 2015, a National Classification Panel has been created which will review all initial applications and offers them classification in regional days, where two classifiers will carry out assessments, or give details of a National classifier local to them to arrange and assessment. The change has come about in response to growing demand for classifications, and to ensure a more comprehensive process for assessing riders whose disability might be more complex or progressive. The ‘two classifier’ system again brings the UK in line with the FEI, which has always required more than one classifier for its assessments. The policy gives a more constructed process although many aspects of the classification remain the same, with no changes being made to the profile or grading of riders. David Hamer, British Dressage Para Director, said: “The popularity of Paralympic sport post London 2012 has been a great boost and it is essential that those coming into the sport have a system that can support the growth in demand for classification. The National Policy gives more clarity and guidance to what was already a very comprehensive process.”
National Classification policy
03 January 2015
DOWNLOAD THE 2015 MEMBERSHIP - Click here to download
03 January 2015
HORST TO HOST PARA-EQUESTRIAN CLASS IN 2015
The national and international driving event in Horst, the Netherlands, will host a para equestrian class again from 16-19 April. If you are keen to participate at this event, please contact Rachel Belliere-Wilson, Sara Howe and Chris Van Reen. Click here to view provisional schedule.
04 December 2014
British Dressage Para-Equestrian Coaching Symposium
If you're involved or interested in para dressage this is a not-to-be-missed seminar. Held and Moulton College in Northamptonshire over 7 - 8 February, the 2015 Para Coaching Symposium is open to all and features some top names like Nigel Redman, Nina Venables, Dr Rachel Murray, Russell Guire, Vanessa Fairfax and Deb Criddle
Click here for further details and timetable
Book tickets by clicking here
20th November 2014
NEW TRAINING DATE SET FOR STOW TRAINING - 12-13 April 2015
Please contact Margaret Brockie if you are interested in attending. Additional information will be published shortly on the calendar.
19 October 2014
SANDRINGHAM TO HOST INTERNATIONAL PARA EVENT IN 2015
26-28 JUNE
30 June 2014
SANDRINGHAM ESTATE HOSTS SUCCESSFUL FEI WORLD PARA EQUESTRIAN DRIVING CHAMPIONSHIPS 2014
Sandringham Estate (GBR), the much-loved country retreat of HM The Queen, provided the gorgeous backdrop for the ninth FEI World Para Equestrian Driving Championships which took place last weekend. Germany was the strongest nation taking home the team title as well as individual gold in Grade II thanks to the 27-year old Alexandra Röder. Jacques Poppen representing The Netherlands was crowned champion in Grade I and added a second world title to the one won in 2008.
During three days, 24 competitors from eight nations took part in the FEI World Para Equestrian Driving Championship at Sandringham, located in Nothfolk, 150 km north of London. The beautiful estate is well used to Driving competitions, having hosted FEI World Championships on two occasions: the first time in 1985 followed by the first edition of the FEI World Championship for pony four-in-hand drivers held in 2001
After a tough few days of top competition Germany held on to its overnight lead after the marathon to take Team Gold in the FEI World Para-Equestrian Driving Championships at Sandringham. The Netherlands took Silver with the USA a mere 3.29 penalties behind in Bronze. Great Britain finished in fourth place. 21 May 2014 German driver Alexandra Roeder made it a double for her nation when taking Individual Grade I Gold at her very first World Championships. Silver went to USA’s Robert Giles, also at his first World Championships, with Bronze being presented to Team GBR’s Mick Ward, who climbed from overnight sixth place having had just one cone down in the deciding phase.
Jacques Poppen of the Netherlands was a very popular winner of the Grade II Individual Gold; he did it in style with one of only four double clears to keep his lead over 2012 World Champion Heiner Lehrter (Germany) in Silver with Lehrter’s team mate Markus Beerhues in Bronze position.
For the Brits, there was further celebration as Lucy Barclay, driving as an Individual, finished in fourth place (Grade I) and the ever-cheerful Sue Johnson and her cob Toby won the Cones phase (Grade II) with a double clear; Mick was second and he was also crowned British National Open Champion, successfully defending the title he won at Sandringham last year.
There was a highly poignant moment for the crowd of spectators and Jacques Poppen when he was presented with the Jan Renzijn Perpetual Memorial Trophy for best dressage by Jan’s daughter Sonja (photo right by ADW Media). As a mark of respect Jacques carried his late close friend Jan’s hat on his carriage. The HRH Princess Haya Hand-in-Hand Trophy – a pairs competition for one para-equestrian driver teamed with one able-bodied driver – was won by Team GBR’s Lindsey Tyas Paice and Ireland’s Barry Capstick, who earlier in the day had won his sixth consecutive Advanced Horse Pairs class at Sandringham. Presenting the magnificent trophy, designed and produced by Aspreys of London, was Bettina de Rham of the FEI along with Vice Chairman of the FEI Technical Committee, Australia’s Boyd Exell. The winners were presented with small keepsake replicas.
Full Results
To read press releases, please click on the links below:
Lucy Barclay - Lindsey Tyas Paice - Sue Johnson - Mick Ward
21 May 2014.
GB TEAM SELECTED FOR PARA DRIVING WORLDS
Following the last of the GB selection trials at Escrick Park last weekend, the team and individuals representing Great Britain at the FEI World Para-Equestrian Driving Championships (Singles) has been announced. The team of three will consist of Mick Ward (Toby), Deborah Daniel (Valeside Galaxy) and Lindsey Tyas Paice (Trixie’s Silver Spirit owned by Lady Iveagh). Individuals will be Lucy Barclay (first team reserve), Sue Johnson, Judi Ralls, Margaret Lupton and Sarah Baverstock. As host nation, Britain is permitted to enter five individuals as well as the team. Mick secured his team place early on having won four of the six selection events, Deborah Daniel won two and was placed second at Escrick while Lindsey came second at five events; the best three positions to count. All three para-drivers have previous International experience with Mick and Deborah being part of the team that won Bronze two years ago when Lindsey drove as an individual.
To read Profiles of athletes selected to represent GB at the upcoming 2014 FEI World Para-Equestrian Driving Championships (Singles) in Sandringham (25-29 June), can be viewed by clicking on the link to the official Team GBR website
13 May 2014
“I DIDN'T FEEL DISABLED”- PARA-DRIVERS ENJOY CDSG-dd TRAINING WEEKEND TO THE FULL
The Carriage Driving Sports Group for drivers with disabilities’ (CDSGdd) training weekend (26 – 27 April) at The Unicorn Trust, Stow-on-the-Wold, was not only well attended but thoroughly enjoyed by all who took part. One participant, Helen, said: “Do you know, I didn’t feel disabled” after driving organiser Margaret Brockie’s super little pony, Sweet Pea, through the cones course after her first drive. A regular attendee to the annual training sessions commented: “It just gets better and better”.
Image: (LtoR) Sue Sherlock, Lancelot, Serenade and Sue’s daughter Lara Sherlock
Click here to read the full story
15 March 2014
PAST PARA DRIVER AILEEN NEILSON TAKES GREAT BRITAINS' WHEEL CHAIR CURLERS TO WIN BRONZE AT SOCHI!
2004 squad member and driver at the Hopetoun Para Equestrian Driving World Championships, Aileen Neilson has inspired Great Britain’s wheelchair curling team to a bronze medal at the Winter Paralympics.
Neilson, the skip, produced her best performance of the competition as Britain rallied from 3-0 down to defeat China 7-3 and return to the podium for the first time since 2006. Tearful skip Aileen Neilson paid tribute to her rink's never-say-die attitude as Great Britain battled to an unlikely bronze at the Winter Paralympics.
Neilson, a Primary School Teacher originally from East Kilbride and now living in Strathaven,drove and successfully competed with Alec and Maureen Hogg's dun pony at the 2004 World Championships. In 2005 whilst watching the World Wheelchair Curling Championships in Glasgow she was inspired to take up the sport and has never looked back.
She said: "This feels like a gold medal. This bronze medal feels like gold. We worked really hard this week, we dug deep. This is a gold medal for me."
Huge congratulations go to the British Team and their support teams.
8 March 2014
PLEASE KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR STOLEN EQUIPMENT
STOLEN last night (07/03/14) from Clifford nr Wetherby LS23 3 sets of black harness - 2 x Zilco cob size & 1 x Webster Euro (part leather) cob size and reins 2 saddles - 1 x working hunter saddle & 1 x GP 1 x generator Identifiable points - Brown leather driving reins are unusually elasticated at the billet ends and have holes punched in them towards buckle ends and have adjustable leather loops (one has a broken keeper) The Webster leather bridle headpiece is shaped behind the ears. One of the Zilco's and the Webster Euro have tandem turrets fitted. Please spread the word, keep your eyes peeled and ring Heather Clark on 07710307548 if you have any information. Thank you,
12th October 2013
Unique opportunity to support 2014 FEI World Para-Equestrian Driving Championships
THE FEI WORLD PARA–EQUESTRIAN DRIVING CHAMPIONSHIPS FOR SINGLES
26 – 29 JUNE 2014
to be held at
SANDRINGHAM HOUSE, NR KINGS LYNN, NORFOLK
By gracious permission of Her Majesty The Queen
Organisers are already planning for the FEI World Para-Equestrian Driving Championships for Singles in Britain next year. To be held at Sandringham House, Norfolk, by gracious permission of HM The Queen, the Championships take place from Thursday 26 to Sunday 29 June 2014. The event will also incorporate International and National classes for able-bodied drivers.
British para-equestrians have a good record of success at this event, most recently winning Team Bronze in 2012 at Breda in Holland. Entries for the 2014 World Championships are expected from across the World; America has already indicated its intention to compete with entries from Europe, in particular Belgium, France, Germany and Holland, widely anticipated. Media coverage will correspondingly be worldwide, including print, online, audio and visual outlets.
Businesses, groups and individuals are invited to help support the event – and the British para-equestrians – with a range of sponsorship opportunities, from title sponsorship to class rosettes (£50 per class). Other opportunities include obstacle sponsorship, banner advertising and para-equestrian competitor facilities such as showers and electric plug-in sockets for buggies.
Social events during the Championships are also available for sponsorship, namely the Nations Night (Wednesday 25 June), the FEI World Para-Equestrian Championships Opening Ceremony and Pimms Reception (Thursday), cocktail party (Friday) and disco on Saturday.
In return, organisers offer sponsors a great benefits package including free trade stand space, free advertising in the programme and free tickets on all three days of competition for the sponsor and guests (depending on level of sponsorship).
Organisers would also like to hear from anyone who speaks German as a translator may be required for the German team and also to read out scores on the PA system.
Spectators and supporters will be welcome to bring their caravans for all or part of the event at a cost of £10 per night (permits need to be applied for); stewards and officials will be able to stay free of charge while competitors will be allowed two free caravan permits per horsebox (horsebox and caravan permits will be issued at the horsebox park gate on arrival).
For more information and/or a Sponsorship Pack please contact Sally Moreton on 01526 388643 or email: sally.moreton@btconnect.com
Picture: British Para-Equestrian competitor Lindsey Tyas-Paice at Sandringham 2013. Photo by Kingswood Associates
12th July 2013
TRAINING DATES CONFIRMED FOR ASHFIELDS
CDSG-dd training will be held at Ashfields driving and Polo Centre, Essexon 11th and 12th August. Numbers will be restricted so please contact Martin Yemm via e mail if you wish to attend. Further details will be available soon.
8th July 2013
MICK TAKES NATIONAL TITLE DAYS BEFORE SANDRINGHAM ANNOUNCED AS 2014 WORLD PARA-EQUESTRIAN DRIVING CHAMPIONSHIPS VENUE
It’s been an overwhelmingly exciting week for Britain’s para-drivers; Mick Ward beat off some determined opposition to take the 2013 Open National Para-Driver Championship with a pony that was virtually ‘brought back from the brink’, Charlotte Thomson successfully defended her Novice National Championship crown and the venue where all this took place – Sandringham in Norfolk – has been awarded the 2014 FEI World Para-Equestrian Driving Championships for Singles which will take place from Thursday 26th to Sunday 29th June.
This year’s para-driver competition at Sandringham was granted FEI (International Equestrian Federation) status in response to the organisers’ bid to host the 2014 World Championships and, just three days after the event, news came through that the bid had been successful. Plans are already afoot to rebuild existing obstacles, including revamping the water obstacle to make it bigger. America has immediately confirmed it will send a team and, with competitors representing Great Britain, Sweden, Ireland and the Netherlands taking part this year, organisers’ are looking forward to hosting a full-on International event in twelve month’s time.
Click here to read the full report and see the results
3rd July 2013
FEI PARA EQUESTRIAN DRIVING WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS COME TO SANDRINGHAM IN 2014
Following the FEI Bureau meeting on 2nd July the FEI has allocated the 2014 World Para Equestrian Driving World Championship to Sandringham (GBR). The event will run from 27-29 June.
2014: FEI World Para-Equestrian Driving Championship for Singles, Sandringham (GBR), 27-29 June
1st July 2013
SUCCESS AT SANDRINGHAM NATIONAL PARA DRIVERS CHAMPIONSHIPS
& INTERNATIONAL DRIVING EVENT
Open National Para Champion - Mick Ward and Toby
Novice National Para Champion - Charlotte Thomson and Dash
Full report to follow
12th June 2013
HORSEBOX & CAMPING RECIPIES URGENTLY REQUIRED FOR FUNDRAISING RECIPIE BOOK
Team Bronze medalist and 2013 Novice Horse Indoor Champion; Lucy Barclay urgently needs your help. In a bid to raise funds for the CDSG and support the Sandringham bid for the 2014 Para Equestrian Driving World Championships she is looking to compile a recipie book which we hope will be popular enough throughout all equestrian sports to get us the funding we need.
The main aim of this book is to fill it with simple recipes that can be cooked in a horsebox or caravan. This means with minimum equipment, skill, washing up and time or a meal that has been prepared at home and can be kept in a tiny fridge, then heated in a small oven or on the hob! If you have any general Picnic/BBQ/camping tips or recipes they would also be useful. Best of all would be if you had any amusing camping stories that I could include!
Lucy would be delighted to hear from you. Recipies can be sent direct to Lucy at lucy.stixwould@btopenworld.com
5th June 2013
PARA-DRIVERS HAVE A BUSY TIME AT ASHFIELDS
Members of the Carriage Driving Sports Group for drivers with disabilities (CDSG) gathered together at Ashfields Carriage and Polo Club at the beginning of June for a busy weekend of training, their AGM and preparation for forthcoming team selection trials.
The group is run for all disabled drivers, not just those aiming for international competitions, and the training sessions reflect that aim. This latest weekend was organised by Sara Howe and Martin Yemm who arranged a packed itinery of activities which focused on one-to-one driver training, interaction with other drivers and opportunity to share experiences and achievements. Click here to read more.
UKcc coach Sara Howe discusses some points with Sue Johnson and her groom Sue Morris while Toby listens intently
24rd April 2013
PARA DRIVERS START SEASON OFF IN FINE STYLE
The Carriage Driving Sports Group for drivers with disabilities (CDSG) started the 2013 outdoor season in fine style during a training weekend at The Unicorn Trust, Stow-on-the-Wold. The weekend, attended by 28 para-drivers, able-bodied whips, backsteppers and supporters, incorporated a qualifying competition for the RDA National Championships to be held at Hartpury on Friday 12 July. Click here to read the report and see photos.
23rd April 2013
CDSG-dd ACHIEVEMENT TROPHY TO BE PRESENTED AT AGM
At the AGM we will be announcing the winner of our new Achievement Trophy. This is a perpetual Trophy which will be issued by the CDSG-dd committee to the member of our group who we feel has achieved great things or made a massive contribution to the group over the past year. It might be a driver or a helper – it could be you!!
23rd April 2013
ASHFIELDS TRAINING BACK ON TRACK
Forms available to download for Ashfields Training on 1st-2nd April
Click here for further information and to download the form to attend the training, please click here. For any additional information please contact Sara Howe.
23rd April2013
CDSG AGM TO TAKE PLACE AT ASHFIELDS
The AGM of the CDSG-dd will be held during the Ashfields training weekend.
Meeting date: Saturday 1st June 2013 Meeting time: 12.30 - 2.00 pm Meeting Place: The Club House Address: Ashfields Carriage and Polo Driving Centre Green Street Great Canfield Essex CM6 1JU We really hope that you will be able to attend, whether you are driving at the Ashfields Clinic or not. This is your chance to give us feedback on the events and activities and to help us shape the direction of the group for the future. The agenda and papers will be sent out shortly. Please email the Secretary to advise if you will be able to attend or not and if so, whether you would like us to provide lunch (which will be at your own cost) via the Club House? If we have sufficient interest in the provision of lunch, then this will be possible but we do require a minimum number of people to do this.
25th March 2013
TRAINING AT ASHFIELDS CANCELLED
Sadly with the current winter weather the ground at Ashfields is very wet and therefore the CDSG-dd training weekend that was being held alongside the EACDG training has had to be cancelled.
The EACDG are re-organising their training weekend for the 13/14th April, but as that clashes with our training at Stow we will not be able to follow suit. Zoe Morgan has offered us the opportunity to use Ashfields either 1/2 June, or 8/9 June as an alternative. Sara Howe has confirmed that she can do the training on either of these dates.
Please let Martin Yemm know if you would like to attend CDSG training either of these weekends and if so your preference. Sadly with the current winter weather the ground at Ashfields is very wet and therefore the CDSG-dd training weekend that was being held alongside the EACDG training has had to be cancelled.
The EACDG are re-organising their training weekend for the 13/14th April, but as that clashes with our training at Stow we will not be able to follow suit. Zoe Morgan has kindly offered us the opportunity to use Ashfields either 1/2 June, or 8/9 June as an alternative. Sara Howe has confirmed that she can do the training on either of these dates.
Please let Martin Yemm know if you would like to attend CDSG training either of these weekends and if so your preference.
13th March 2013
Feast of opportunities for Para Drivers at Sandringham
Schedules are now available for the BHDTA National Driving Trials at Sandringham (28-30 June) offering a feast of opportunity for Para Drivers from Novice to International level.
Read more
1st February 2013
Forms available to download for Unicorn Training 13th-14th April
Click here to download the form. Further Information is available by contacting Margaret Brockie. Tel. 01204 531301 / 07801 494588
23rd January 2013
Forms available to download for Ashfields Training
This course is open to disabled drivers driving their own or borrowed turnouts, also members of RDA Groups bringing an RDA turnout. We also accept A.B.Whips or helpers who wish to improve their own skills. Anybody who just wishes to come and watch and learn or help is very welcome to do so at no cost other than for any meals required.
Click here for information on the course and download the application form by clicking here.
15th January 2013
Items required for Table Top sale at South of England Driving Fayre at Merist Wood arena, Guildford on Sunday, 21st April
Judi Ralls is having a stand at the South of England Driving Fair for the Stella Hancock Driving Group and will be happy to collect any items people want to sell from Stow training camp in April. People need to confirm with Judi if all money raised from any sale is for the fundraising appeal and what is to be done with items that do not sell.
It was decided at the recent Para meeting that any funds raised should be split 50% towards team funds for 2014 World Champs (hopefully Sandringham) and 50% to the CDSGdd group funds.
Please contact Judi Ralls directly if you have anything that you would like to sell to help raise funds. Judi Ralls: judi.ralls@btinternet.com
8th January 2013
British drivers invited to compete in Para Equestrian Class at Horst
An invite has just been recieved from the organisers of the international driving event at Horst aan de Maas (Netherlands) for Great Britain to send Para Equestrian drivers to compete. The event runs from 19th to 21st April. Further information can be found by clicking here. Anyone interested in competing at Horst should contact Rachel Belliere-Wilson. The event website can be found by clicking here: www.menwedstrijdenhorst.nl
11th December 2012
Mick Ward wins the Loughborough Senior Disabled Sports Personality of the Year Award
29th November 2012
New training date set for Stow training - 13th - 14th April 2013
Please contact Margaret Brockie if you are interested in attending. Additional information will be published shortly on the calendar.
28th November 2012
International para-drivers show early interest in Sandringham
Para-drivers from Belgium, Germany, Holland and the USA are already showing interest in competing at the CAIB ‘World Championships warm-up event’ at Sandringham in 2013. Organisers of the annual National Driving Trials at the venue are hoping to host the Para-Drivers’ World Championships in 2014. |
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15 November 2012
Sandringham to apply to put on a Para Driving International event
News has been received from the organisers of the Sandringham Horse Driving Trials event to that they are applying to hold an International Para driving event at Sandringham in 2013. The event which will be run in conjunction with the national driving trials will run from 28 to 30 June 2013. The dates will be 28, 29, 30 June. The 2012 Para Drivers National Championships ran with great success alongside the mainstream national event . Sandringham is also aiming to put a bid in for the 2014 Para world championships. The event organisers are keen to gauge responses for support from international para drivers for a Para event at Sandringham particularly if the same showground is able to host the 2014 Para Driving World Championships. Sandringham have indicated that if necessary they would be able to provide stabling within the Sandringham estate (they are not proposing to put up temporary stabling) and they are suggesting that they would not make an entry fee for para drivers at all. We are delighted to hear the news and would be grateful if you could feed back whether this would be something that you would be looking to support so that we can give Sandringham organisers some general feedback. Please send any feedback to CDSG-dd Chairman; Rachel Belliere-Wilson at rachel.belliere-wilson@eu.biworldwide.com
5 September 2012
TEAM BRONZE FOR BRITISH PARA-DRIVERS
It may not be an Olympic sport but the British para-drivers earned themselves a Team Bronze medal in a fantastic performance at the Para Equestrian World Championships, held at Breda in Holland last weekend. 
Team members Lucy Barclay from Stixwold in Lincolnshire, Deborah Daniel from Whitchurch, Shropshire, and Mick Ward who lives in Loughborough, Leicestershire, put in a storming performance to finish well clear of USA, holding onto their third position following the dressage phase. Read more.
10 July 2012
World Para-Drivers Championship team announced
Following a highly successful third selection trial at the BHDTA National competition at Sandringham, the team to represent Great Britain at the World Para-Drivers Championship in Holland (Thursday 30th August – Sunday 2nd September) has been announced. Read more
Deborah Daniel wins at Sandringham
Photo by Kingswood Associates
18 June 2012
Lindsey continues her winning streak in bid for team place
Aiming for a place on the 2012 Para-Drivers World Championship GB Team, four drivers were back in action at Offchurchbury (organised by Midlands Driving Trials Group) for their second selection competition. The venue was a replacement following the unfortunate cancellation of Tutbury a few weeks ago.
Read more
Lindsey-Paice-wins-at-Offchurch
Photo by Kingswood Associates
14 June 2012
Lindsey and Gordon tie the knot
Photo by Matthew Olley
Big celebrations were held on Saturday 26th May when Gordon Paice and International para-equestrian driver Lindsey Tyas finally tied the knot at All Saints Church, Old Buckenham in Norfolk. Read more
23 May 2012
AGM and two days of training make for a busy weekend
The Carriage Driving Sports Group for Drivers with Disabilities (CDSGdd) recent AGM and training sessions proved a great success and provided a busy weekend for participants and trainers alike. It was very rewarding to see how much some of our regular drivers have progressed since the first time we started working with them some years back, and energising to see how much new drivers were taking from it. We are very grateful to Margaret Brockie for organising the training sessions. 
Seventeen drivers from across the country took part in the event held at the Unicorn Trust, Stow-on-the-Wold. CDSGdd chairman Rachel Belliere-Wilson worked alongside UKcc coaches Sara Howe and Angela Flanagan to provide one-to-one training sessions to both new and more experienced drivers, including the first junior para-driver, across dressage, cones and obstacle phases. Rachel commented: “Without exception, everyone progressed with general dressage fundamentals and cones schooling, building to a fun filled Sunday afternoon with some obstacle training. It was very rewarding to see how much some of our regular drivers have progressed since the first time we started working with them some years back, and energising to see how much new drivers were taking from it. We are very grateful to Margaret Brockie for organising the training sessions. Read more
21 May 2012
Sandringham to host Para-Driver Championships
The Para-Driver Open National Championships will run alongside the BHDTA National Driving Trials at Sandringham (Friday 29th June – Sunday 1st July). A Novice class will also be run at the event, in association with the East Anglian Carriage Driving Group’s (EACDG) two-day club event (30th June – 1st July). The Open National Championships will also be a selection event for the 2012 Para-Driving World Championships taking place at Breda in August. Read more.
SCHEDULE RELEASED FOR PARA NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS AT SANDRINGHAM 29 JUNE - 1ST JULY
Schedule available for download on Calendar Page
- CLOSING DATE FOR ENTRIES FOR CLASS 1 - PARA EQUESTRIAN OPEN : Monday 11 June 2012
- CLOSING DATE FOR ENTRIES FOR CLASS 2 - PARA EQUESTRIAN NOVICE
Wednesday, 20 June 2012
June 2012 - Tutbury event cancelled
Tutbury, due to be held on 12/13 May has been cancelled due to wet ground conditions. Following discussion it was agreed to move the selection event to the next MDTG at Offchurchbury on 10-11 June.
The Midlands Driving Trials Group's 2-day Club event at Anslow near
Carriage Driving Fair 2012
Several drivers from the Stella Hancock RDA Driving Group took part in the RDA display at the Carriage Fair. The Carriage Fair was held for the first time at Merrist Wood College and proved to be a great success. Report and photos to follow.
Subscriptions for 2012 Membership
Membership currently runs from 1st January to 31st December and renewals for 2012 are now due. As discussed at the AGM there will be an increase in Membership to the CDSG-dd for 2012.
Membership for 2012 will be as follows:
- Membership if paid by 28th February: £13.00
- BHDTA members: £10.00
- Membership after 28th February : £15.00
By becoming a member of the CDSG-dd members are covered for insurance by the BHDTA at any event that the CDSG-dd organises, this includes training, competition and social events. All drivers participating in training sessions and competing in events organised by the CDSG-dd must be members.
Click here to download a membership form for 2012.
Outdoor Brabant hosts FEI World Para Equestrian Driving Championships 2012
12-11-2011
The FEI has allocated the FEI World Para Equestrian Driving Championships for singles 2012 to the Netherlands. The World Championship will take place during the international event Outdoor Brabant that will take place from 30 August to 2 September at the Prinsenhoeve Estate in Breda.
International Ambition
It is the second consecutive time that Outdoor Brabant hosts this World Championship. After the successful World Championship in 2010, Outdoor Brabant decided in consultation with the Royal Dutch Equestrian Federation to apply for the 2012 World Championship: “We would like to offer the Para Equestrian drivers the opportunity to compete in another World Championship in Breda. The World Championship offers both the competitors and Outdoor Brabant the opportunity to put the spotlight on Para equestrian driving. This is furthermore very much in line with our international ambitions,” says chairman Ton Overeem.
Ambassador
Outdoor Brabant (previously known as Breda Hippique) has successfully hosted the CAIO for horse teams for many years. The FEI World Para Equestrian Driving Championships for singles 2012 will be fully integrated in the driving programme, like it was done in 2010.
2008 World Champion and 2010 bronze medallist Jacques Poppen will be the ambassador of the World Championship in Breda 2012.
www.outdoorbrabant.nl
Hats off to Anne and Yolanda - Somerset Levels RDA Carriage Driving Group drivers & CDSG -dd -members
The Somerset Levels RDA Carriage Driving Group are pleased to announce that Ann Turner and Yolanda Harrison passed their Grade 3 RDA Carriage Driving Test on 9th November 2011. They hope that there are more to follow - what a great achievement for not only Yolanda and Anne but to the groupd of dedicated team of Volunteers that have put many, many hours into helping them get this far.
Training for Trials
British Horse Driving Trials Association together with grant aid from Sport England, through the British Equestrian Federation are pleased to be able to run a series of Two-day training clinics.
This allows grant subsidised training for drivers, back-steppers and stewards and will include - How to prepare for and compete in Horse Driving Trials and starting and progressing in indoor driving competitions
Find out more and book your place please visit the BHDTA website - http://www.horsedrivingtrials.co.uk
Charitable Status
After much hard work by the CDSG-dd's dedicated Treasurer; Terry Kirby, the group has now obtained Charitable Status. The CDSG-dd is now registered as a charity - 1143265.
October Training at the Unicorn Trust
The CDSG is once again arranging a course at the Unicorn Trust in Stow on the Wold, Gloucs for disabled carriage drivers and, if space allows, those who teach disabled drivers. The date is Saturday 1st and 2nd October. Places will be on a first come first served basis when the forms are sent out later but it would be a good idea to send expressions of interest now.
Please advise Margaret Brockie if you are interested in attending this training on 01204 531301 or margaretbrockie@talktalk.net.
Click here to download the form
Ashfield’s Carriage Driving And Polo Centre with the Sports Group 18th and 19th July 2011
Read a full account of Herons Gyll RDA group member Sarah Baverstock on her first experience at the CDSGdd training at Ashfields Carriage Driving and Polo Centre. Click here to read the full article
Sarah Baverstock recieving training from Ben Grose Photo by Swingletree Productions
Para Equestrian British Driving Championships
27- 28 August 2011
HENBURY HALL, MACCLESFIELD, CHESHIRE SK11 9PJ
By kind permission of Mr Sebastian de Ferranti
PLEASE REMEMBER ENTRIES CLOSE ON 17 AUGUST - PLEASE NOTIFY MARGARET BROCKIE BY 31ST AUGUST IF YOU INTEND TO COMPETE
Clarification of the classes
Class 6 is for drivers who have, or are presently, competing at National or International level.
Class 7 is for drivers competing at Club level up to Novice Qualifiers.
On the grounds of safety 2 sets of reins will be accepted but because these classes are being run under BHDTA rules then rule 917.2.4 will apply. i.e. 20 penalties every time the groom picks up the contact on the reins.
£55 for all Classes (no start fee) including one hog roast ticket There will be a £10 surcharge on all entries accepted after the closing dateCLOSING DATE FOR ENTRIES : Wednesday 17 August 2011 Entry Fees: £55 for all Classes (no start fee) including one hog roast ticket There will be a £10 surcharge on all entries accepted after the closing date
Mick heads to Tutbury
Up and coming CDSG member Mick Ward recently competed at his first club event. Having attended several training sessions both with the Midlands Driving Group and with the Carriage Driving Sports Group for Drivers with Disabilities he decided to head to the action, get the wheels in motion and start competing at club level.
Click here for a full account of his first experience.
Training at Ashfields
by kind invitation of Terry Chambers, Ashfields Carriage Driving Centre, Great Canfield, Dunmow, Essex, CM6 1LD www.ashfieldscarriageandpoloclub.com
The Carriage Driving Sports Group for Drivers with disabilities holds a number of training sessions with UKCC coaches for drivers wishing to improve their driving skills. The group would like to encourage RDA drivers from across the UK to join them at their next training weekend at Ashfields Carriage Driving Centre on 18-19 June. If your RDA group has drivers and /or able bodied whips who would like to participate in the training, please speak to Martin Yemm who would be pleased to provide you with more information. Sessions allow all abilities the chance to improve their rein handling, overcome their own obstacles and participate in social activities with other drivers challenged by disability from across the UK.
The group will also be holding a meeting to discuss plans for training and selection for the 2012 Para Equestrian Driving World Championships.
Set in 500 acres of beautiful Essex country-side with 80 acres of post and railed grass paddocks, Ashfields offers a wide range of equestrian facilities and has excellent access for wheelchairs. Further details of Ashfields Carriage Driving Centre which is located at Great Canfield, Dunmow, Essex, CM16 1LD can be found on their website www.ashfieldscarriageandpoloclub.com.
If you are interested in obtaining further information regarding these sessions please contact Martin Yemm, Tel: 01234 376027 / 07836 501695 - martin@myemm.fsnet.co.uk who will be delighted to hear from you and will be able to provide you with further information.
Training sessions taking place at the Unicorn Centre, Stow on Wold - 30 April - 1st May 2011.
Click on the Training tab for further information.
RDA riders and drivers encouraged to take up the challege at RDA East Region Supra Conference 2010
CDSG-dd member and active member of the RDA Margaret Lupton was one of the guest speakers invited to speak at the recent RDA East Region Supra Conference held at the Bedford Lodge, Newmarket. Accompanied by Catriona Murray; a lifelong friend groom and backstepper the conference was also atended by HRH Princess Ann.
To read Catriona's account of the conference, click here.
RDA Drivers bring back Team Bronze at FEI Para Equestrian Driving World Championships. - Report to follow
Para Equestrian Team GBR prepares for Breda
14 August 2010
The Para Equestrian World Championship Team GB is now it its final throes of planning and preparation for the World Championships in Breda in September. The team was selected during July and all members took part recently in their final training session at Ashfields Carriage Driving and Polo Club, by kind permission of Terry Chambers and with great support, as always, from Wilf and Zoe. |  |
Team GB Squad: (clockwise from top left) • Debs Daniel, driving Maesbrithdir Sparkling Jewel (pony) owned by Margaret Brockie
• Heather Clark, driving her own Barney II (pony)
• Lindsey Tyas driving her own London Flash Jack (horse)
• Margaret Lupton, driving Keelan (horse) owned by Christine Goodliffe
At this training, each horse had to pass the trot up and vetting carried out by Blaircourt Veterinary Clinic, as well as the drivers and their turnouts taking part in a full two day training session incorporating dressage, obstacle training and cones, plus physio sessions and classroom discussions. Thanks to all who made this enjoyable two days possible including Wilf and Zoe, Lyn Winder, Chris Van Reen and Sue Richards as well as each team member’s army of helpers.
More
Training at Ashfields Carriage Driving and Polo Centre 5/6 June proves to be a roaring success - Report to follow.
Further training will take place at Ashfields, however if you are interested in obtaining further information regarding these sessions, please contact Martin Yemm. He will be delighted to hear from you and will be able to provide you with further information.
Martin Yemm: Tel. 01234 376027 / 07836 501695
BETA Innovation Award Winner supports
Para-Equestrian Driver
International Para driver Lindsey Tyas is delighted to be supporting Ride-Alert; a major new innovation in horse and rider/driver safety launched by local entrepreneur Andy Keates and his business partner Adrian Soskin.
The new range of innovative personal identification products, for both horse and rider/driver, provides a direct link to the Incident Response Centre 24-hours a day. Ride-Alert was recently awarded the highly regarded British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA) Innovation Award at the UK's leading equine industry Trade Fair BETA International.
To find out more about the Ride-Alert support network please visit
www.ride-alert.co.uk more .......
GB in Wheelchair curling at Paralympic Winter Games
Aileen Neilson, a member of the British squad who competed at the 2004 World Championships for drivers with disabilities now has her sights firmly set on Gold having just been selected to represent Great Britain in the sport of Curling at the Paralympic Winter Games in Vancouver.
Having curled from the age of 12 to 17, it was only in November 2004, that Aileen took up wheelchair curling. After joining Braehead Wheelchair Curling Club, she progressed to the Development Squad and was then selected to play for Scotland/GB at the end of 2006. During this time she also competed at international events in Prague, Norway, Germany, USA, Canada and Switzerland.
A Primary School teacher from Strathaven, Aileen has competed at the last three World Wheelchair Curling Championships, picking up a Bronze medal in Sweden at the 2007.
The CDSG-dd wish Aileen and the rest of the GB Team the very best of luck at the games and hope they bring back the Gold.
The competition will take place in the Vancouver Paralympic Centre between March 13-20. Read the full report on Aileen's selection.
Minister for Sport visits Riding Centre in Derbyshire
The newly-appointed East Midlands Champion for Community Sport, Manjula Sood, yesterday joined Sports Minister Gerry Sutcliffe at a riding centre in Derbyshire to see how they are getting hundreds of disabled young people into equestrian sports.
They visited Scropton Riding and Driving Centre and saw a paraplegic carriage driving display by Terry Kirby, recipient of the senior Disabled Sports Award for South Derbyshire. Kirby also invited the minister to join in him in the carriage to demonstrate first hand the skills required.
This was followed by an impressive display of para-equestrian dressage by 15 year old Matthew Dalley, a member of the East Midlands Regional Foundation Squad. The Sport England-funded squads, which are coordinated by the British Equestrian Federation, have been set up across five regions with the aim of producing regional talent pools of riders to support their ambition to progress to World Class level. More
Team GBR in search forPara Equestrian Driving Stars
Easton College welcomes Para Equestrian Disciplines
to new Equestrian Centre.
Keen to promote Para Equestrian disciplines in East Anglia, Easton College near Norwich (Norfolk) is holding a Para Equestrian day on 13th February. Open to all three Para Equestrian disciplines - dressage, driving and show-jumping, the day is organised by Hilary Francois, Equestrian Centre Manager at Easton College. The day will consist of workshops and talks by Performance Psychologist, Nikki Heath and Equine and Human Sports Physio, Pippa Windle-Baker. As well as working closely with UK athletics, Nikki has worked extensively with event rider Pippa Funnell to help her prepare herself mentally and help her to reach the peak of her performance for competition. Pippa Windle-Baker is also heavily involved in equestrian sports, working with the Endurance Teams as well as treating numerous equines and humans in East Anglia.
Running from 10.00-2.00 the day costs £20.00. Spaces are limited but priority will be given to Para Equestrian Athletes from all disciplines.
For further information and to book your place please contact Hilary Francois. Tel: 01603 731577hfrancois@easton-college.ac.uk 
Treasure found at the end of the course, after Radio Norfolk has a go at Carriage Driving!
The new Equestrian Centre at Easton College was officially opened by Pippa Funnell on 24 October. An array of Para Equestrian athletes from Dressage, Driving and Show-jumping gave an exciting display to an invited audience of over 500. The following morning, local presenter Becky Betts from BBC Radio Norfolk began another intense Treasure Quest with no idea of where this would lead her. The programme has a dedicated following of listeners from all over Norfolk and beyond, and with their help Becky follows a series of clues until she finds the treasure. The final clue – “A promising direction, but tweaked a little. Could be a group of religious figures. The new place for the croaky voice sound, takes you round the cones for the treasure." 
Eventually this led Becky to Easton College Equestrian Centre where she found her treasure. After rides in helicopters, fast cars and lifeboats, it was time for her to experience some real horse power - Para Equestrian Driver Lindsey Tyas and her horse Jack were duly waiting for her where a cones course was laid out. After an exhilarating round of cones the treasure was found by a thrilled Becky.
Para Drivers on Eggheads - BBC 2
this Friday - 15th January 2010.
The long awaited viewing of the Para drivers taking on the Eggheads will be shown on BBC 2 on 15th January 2010 at 6.00. The team consists of Team Captain Terry Kirby, Heather Clark, Margaret Lupton, Lindsey Tyas and James Marshall. Watch the programe on BBC I-Player. 
Cavewood Productions
Para Equestrian Driving promotional video clip
Team GBR has been fortunate to have the backing and support of Jackie Herd and Tim Maloy of Cavewood Productions since 2008. Cavewood Productions produced the Road to Greven which is shown frequently on Horse and Country TV and most recently produced promotional Para Equestrian material for Britain's bid to host the 2010 World Championships. Although on this occassion Great Britain will not be hosting the World Championships it is hoped that the video clip will encourage people throughout the world who may be challenged by disability to take up the reins and become involved in Para Equestrian Driving.
If you are interested in either driving, becoming involved or supporting Para Equestrian Driving activities please contact the CDSG-dd Secretary - Lindsey Tyas. The video clip can be seen at http://vimeo.com/7287973
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Ideal Christmas Gifts
With Christmas fast approaching the ideal Christmas present may be closer than you think. The Ashfields calendar featuring National, International and Para drivers is now available from Malcolm Parnell from Bluefoot Donkey. At £10 each plus P&P of £2.50 for up to 4 calendars, profit will go towards raising funds for Team GBR Para Drivers competing at the FEI Para Equestrian Driving World Championships in Breda (Netherlands) in 2010. |  |
2010 Para Equestrian Driving WC in Breda
19-11-2009
The FEI has allocated the World Championships Para Equestrian Driving 2010 to the Netherlands. This was decided today during the FEI General Assembly in Copenhagen, Denmark. The organization of this prestigious event will be in the capable hands of the international equestrian event Breda Hippique at the Prinsenhoeve Estate in Breda.
Breda Hippique successfully organized the Dutch National Para Equestrian Dressage Championships in 2009 and therefore already has a strong connection with the para equestrian sport. Reigning World Champion Jacques Poppen from the Netherlands is thrilled with the allocation.
The World Championship in Breda will be fully integrated in the existing four-in-hand programme. Breda Hippique will take place from 2 to 5 September 2010. http://www.bredahippique.nl/index.php?lang=en
The other candidate for the 2010 bid was Ashfields in Great Britain, who have successfully organised events at the venue for several years and in 2009 hosted the first national combined driving event.
United drivers from Europe showcase Para Equestrian Driving
at International at Conty
4-9 August 2009
The competition at Conty was a huge success. This was the first time that France had held a Para Equestrian Driving event and competitors from Germany, Netherlands and Ireland provided spectators with a real showcase of Para Equestrian driving, demonstrating the drive, skill and real passion that all the athletes have for the sport. The five competitors from four countries not only competed in a top class competition, but showcased the sport and were true ambassadors for both their country and Para Equestrian Driving.
The Para Drivers arrived on Tuesday and Wednesday and were allocated a prime spot next to one of the very picturesque lakes at the Conty site. Everyone prepared for the Vet check which was held on Wednesday afternoon. All the para horses looked fit and well and passed the vet check without any problems. | |
The competition held in the beautiful setting of Valle de Selle, was run in parallel with the International Heavy Horse Championships where drivers came from as far afield as Canada and Sweden. |  |
| More Info | More Info - German |
Results
Dressage Marathon Cones Overall
Download the schedule
Marcin Skrzydlewski - 08 June 2009
It is with great sadness that we have been informed of the untimely death of Angela Flanagan's outstanding groom and backstepper, Marcin Skrzydlewski, who was killed in a Motorbike accident on Tuesday 26th May. He groomed and backstepped for Angela for several years, accompanying her to success all over the UK and also to the World Single Horse Championships in Jarantów, Poland in 2008. In 2006 he also accompanied the British Para Equestrian drivers to Hellendoorn. More Info |  |
Sporting heroes awarded
Apr 1 2009 by Sharon Liptrott, Dumfries Standard ANNANDALE and Eskdale’s sporting heroes and heroines were rewarded for their achievements on Friday night. It was a celebration for those who had excelled in their chosen sport during the year 2008. The Sports Personality of the Year, sponsored by Anderson’s Joinery, was awarded to Margaret Lupton from Annan who represented Great Britain in the World Para-Equestrian Championships in Germany, winning the cone driving section. Joint runners-up were Lockerbie’s Alex Dunbar and Michael Scott for their achievements in rugby. Alex played for Scotland in the under-18s’ Six Nations tournament and Michael became a member of Scotland’s under-19 training squad.
More Info
Para-equestrian Drivers Take on the Eggheads
In a program to be televised in June a team from the Para-equestrian Drivers take on the might of the Eggheads in the popular BBC2 program. The team, consisting of Terry Kirby (Capt.), Heather Clarke, James Marshall, Lindsey Tyas, Margaret Lupton and reserve Rowena Coldwell, had to audition in Leeds to be selected to go up against the Eggheads at the BBC television centre in London.
Unfortunately because of the bad weather, Margaret and Lindsey couldn’t make the audition, so had to do a general knowledge quiz with the production team over the phone. After a liquid lunch the 4 that went to Leeds beat a team of lawyers and a pub team in a mock competition. A week later they where told they had made it onto the show. The time spent at the BBC was really good, having to get clothes checked by wardrobe and then being made up in makeup. Sound checks and instructions out of the way, it was time to meet the Eggheads. They were lovely to talk too and really made the team feel at ease. During the show the team were able to explain about Horse Driving Trials and the Carriage Driving Sports Group. Because the program is pre-recorded the team had to sign a confidentiality form preventing them from disclosing the result. So you will have to watch the show in December
Terry Kirby
28 March 2009
Para-equestrian Drivers at South of England Driving Fair
Up and coming para equestrian drivers Sarah Bavistock (Herons Ghyll RDA) and Yolanda Hansford (Burcott & District RDA) featured in the Para Equestrian drivers' demonstration at the South of England driving fair at Ardingly in March.
Also featuring members of Team GBR; trainer Rachel Stevens explained the five principles of training and was assisted by Team GBR drivers from the 2008 World Championships Judi Ralls and Lindsey Tyas.
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2008
GB Team Announced for FEI Para-Equestrian World Driving Championships - Greven 2008
Ripley Castle hosted the final team training and selection for the Para-Equestrian World Championship hopefuls from 30 April through to 4 May. |
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Selection for Para Equestrian World Championships Squad
Ashfields 17 - 20 April 2008
The Para Equestrian World Class Squad continued with their training and competition selection programme, this time at Ashfields Carriage and Polo Centre, by kind permission of Terry Chambers. Outstanding training, competition and social facilities were provided by Zoe Morgan and Wilf Bowman-Ripley, accommodating an intense training programme on the Thursday and Friday, followed by a specially devised class where competitors went head-to-head as part of the selection process. Lynn Winder, Chris Van Reen and Rachel Stevens headed up the training programme and the team where once again ably supported by sports psychologist Jennie Killilea and team vet Viki Edmondson. The team will be selected based on inclusion of one Grade 1 and one Grade 2 competitor, the third team member being either a Grade 1 or Grade 2 driver. There will also be two individual places available. The Pairs class is not yet confirmed, which has been agonising for poor Brenda Hodgson, but she is continuing, regardless with the invaluable training programme, this year with a different pony pair from the previous World Championships. Team hopefuls are:
Terry Kirby Grade 1 Single Pony Has team experience from Hellendoorn and is very strong and consistent across all three phases.
Judi Ralls Grade 2Single Pony One of the most experienced team members; a very reliable driver with an experienced Championship pony.
Elaine Schaschke Grade 2Single Pony First attempt at selection, a talented driver showing great potential, with a very smart and well prepared pony
Heather Clarke Grade 1 Single Pony One of the most admired and talented drivers on the circuit. Diligent, dedicated and preparing herself well - one to watch.
Margaret Lupton Grade 1 Single Pony Missed out at the last Worlds at the last minute, due to an unfortunate accident. Now with a new pony, showing great improvement. A determined competitor with natural talent.
Lindsey Tyas Grade 1 Single Horse Another extremely accomplished and experienced World Championship competitor, showing consistent improvement year on year with this horse.
The team is self funded and relies wholly on generous donations from individuals and small businesses. Should you like to be involved in supporting this potentially Gold medal winning team of talented drivers, competing at the top of this sport notwithstanding significant disability, please get in touch with Judi Ralls (01252 850330) or Lindsey Tyas (07721 833730)
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| At the AGM we will be announcing the winner of our new Achievement Trophy. This is a perpetual Trophy which will be issued by the CDSG-dd committee to the member of our group who we feel has achieved great things or made a massive contribution to the group over the past year. It might be a driver or a helper – it could be you!! |  |
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|  To read Profiles of athletes selected to represent GB at the upcoming 2014 FEI World Para-Equestrian Driving Championships (Singles) in Sandringham (25-29 June), can be viewed by clicking on the link to the official Team GBR website |
| To read Profiles of athletes selected to represent GB at the upcoming 2014 FEI World Para-Equestrian Driving Championships (Singles) in Sandringham (25-29 June), can be viewed by clicking on the link to the official Team GBR website |