❝Where do I start❞
I feel that I should give you the cut version of my life up until now. I have been in the equine industry for approx. 40 years
From as young as I remember I have had a love for horses and nature itself. My first close encounter was with a pony called Sultan.
On a summer evening, we came across the girl that owned Sultan, who was a bit older than me. She asked me if I wanted a shot on her pony, I obviously said yes.
She legged me up bareback, and began to walk down the field. On the return journey, she told me to take hold of a chunk of mane and then ran with the pony and that's where it all started. I was eight years old at the time.
When I first started riding, I rode bareback for the first few years and helped an old man (in my eyes) during the summer to give pony rides on the beach.
To date, I have embarked on many journeys in horsemanship and riding. I went to college at the age of sixteen and gained various qualifications in the equine industry and during that time I worked in a riding establishment that specialised in endurance riding. At the time I was the youngest person to win a Scottish championship title for long distance riding in a particular section.
Fast forward into my twenties, I landed a great job in a small riding stables which I then went on to manage. I was privileged enough to compete on a regular basis in dressage; show-jumping, eventing and showing, just to name a few.
I gained another qualification as a UKCC vaulting coach, and also found myself in a position to buy my first horse; which was a massive thing to me, as I had always ridden other peoples horses; particularly "problem" horses with behavioural issues. I have always found this to be interesting.
I then went on to work with adults with learning disabilities, and spent many years working in mental health community based services incorporating horses into my work. In my time off I still worked at local stables as well as rode for other people on a private basis.
Out of the blue, whilst still working in mental health services, I found myself in a weird situation. I was offered the chance of two different stables to lease.
The people that offered me the stables had recognised my dedication, ability and horsemanship skills. They wanted to give me the opportunity to have my own stables - which in due course - I obviously took because here I am!
I continue with my own personal development and train frequently with extremely knowledgeable and recognised coaches, at least once a month in varying disciplines.
I continue to ride English and Western style. I have competed at Scottish national level at both of these and managed to do very well. I like to blend the best bits from both styles of riding to work in harmony and true partnership with my equines. I continue to forge forward on my horsemanship learning journey and firmly believe that everyday is a school day. The majority of the horses in the stables have found their way to me for one reason or another. Anything from the death of an owner to behavioural problems. I have systematically supported these horses to get well again, taking each step at the horses own pace and providing a stable environment that is safe, where they are able to express themselves; let their personalities shine, have friends, freedom and forage.
These horses are very much part of my family and we provide services to individuals and groups that come to visit the area, allowing people to enjoy the spectacular scenery and feel the freedom of being at one with nature and reconnecting.
Well done for sticking with me this far, if you wish to find out more come and visit us.
❝LIFE IS A BEAUTIFUL RIDE❞
A snapshot of some of my memorable achievements to date:
5x barrel racing champion at Scottish national western show.
Placed 1st several times in ranch riding at Scottish National level.
Placed 1st in Freestyle Reining (bridle-less) at Scottish national western show. As well as various firsts at other shows.
Numerous wins and placings in western pleasure, trail, western riding over the years. High points etc.
Many working hunter championship wins. Reserve champions.
Recently qualifying for Blair Atholl Horse trials (which unfortunately I was unable to attend due to an injury)
Showjumping Placing 1st, alongwith various placings
