Charlie Barker, a 12-year-old son of professional showjumper Paul Barker, won the winter children-on-horses final at arena UK riding his father’s home-bred stallion Green Grass. Charlie has been riding Green Grass since November and has been successful in competitions, even jumping 1.30m with him at Stainsby Grange. Charlie’s success may lead to him taking over the ride on Green Grass from his father in the future.
Judy Nolan, who is almost 85 years old, is aiming for the British dressage national championships this year. Despite struggling with breathing after catching Covid, Judy continues to ride, muck out, and drive to shows. She is determined to keep competing and improving, as she believes it is important to stay active and not give up, especially at her age.
Working equitation, a discipline that combines dressage with obstacle navigation and cattle handling, has become one of the fastest-growing equestrian disciplines. Lynne Macleod, a working equitation enthusiast, praises the sport for its fun and versatility, rewarding harmony and partnership between horse and rider. Lynne encourages those who may be disillusioned with dressage to give working equitation a try, as it is accessible to anyone and focuses on training and partnership.