SEVENTEEN disabled horse riders from North Cornwall competed at the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) National Championships from July 13 to 15.

The riders, all members of North Cornwall RDA group which is based at the Lakefield Equestrian Centre in Camelford, returned home with 13 rosettes, having competed in a grand total of 24 classes over the weekend including dressage and show jumping.

The group took to the road on their 240-mile round trip to Hartpury College in Gloucestershire, supported by a travel grant made possible thanks to players of People’s Postcode Lottery.

Jennie Oakley, a volunteer at the group, said: “I just want to thank the players of the People’s Postcode Lottery who made it possible for us to receive the travel grant of £595 to get all nine of our horses up to the championships.”

The group took home a total of 13 rosettes with special note going to the two first place riders who scored exceptional results. Claire Tregaskis (Wadebridge) won the Dressage Freestyle Grade 1 on horse Stefania with 72.25%. Followed by a fantastic result from Emma Hawkin (Lostwithiel) on Shakira who, with thanks to the wonderful team, won ‘Best turned out’ with 91%.

Rider Julie Furber, who put in a competitive dressage test after nine operations on her hips, said: “To be back competing is wonderful, sometimes you feel like you doubt your ability but coming here just shows you can do it. RDA are great I couldn’t do this without the support of our volunteers.”

The RDA National Championships is the biggest event of its kind this year attracting over 500 competitors from all over the UK. It is held over three-days at Hartpury Equestrian featuring events across a range of disciplines including carriage driving, vaulting, dressage and show jumping.

In the past, the event has provided a competitive starting point for Paralympians including Sophie Christiansen, Natasha Baker and Lee Pearson — all of whom started as riders with the RDA and continue to support the charity.

Thanks to the players of People’s Postcode lottery, 24 groups for disabled riders and drivers and 105 participants have been able to attend another successful RDA national competition.Visit the People's Postcode Lottery website