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Abingdon RDA - News
RDA NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS
My second thank you is to Nicky, who stayed at Hartpury with Kate. She also worked like a beaver and always seemed to have either a bucket of shampoo or a wheelbarrow in her hands. Thank you so much Nicky. To those helpers who so gallantly arose from their beds at 5a.m. in order to leave the yard at 6.30 a.m. a huge thank you. Everything worked like clockwork, some of the time under difficult circumstances, particularly on Sunday when it was quite a scramble to rush Speckles and Charlie from one test to another. Why you may well ask. Well on Saturday we had our one unfortunate incident, when Milo decided to take off with James in the dressage arenas. He moved quite fast and when James realized that there was a post and rail fence approaching, he decided the best thing to do was to “abandon ship”. He landed with quite a thump, just missing one of the judges boxes. After a thorough going over by the paramedics he leapt to his feet. James you have the most amazing stamina and courage – it must have been a terrifying experience and we are very sorry that it happened. As a result, of course, we couldn’t use Milo again. Two riders got phone calls on Saturday evening to say that they no longer had the mounts they thought they would be having. After much deliberation it was decided that Molly should ride Charlie, and Lyndsey Speckles – a bit of a shock to both of them. Charlie and Specs must also have been in shock listening to the conversations, as they realized that they would have to do 4 and 6 tests respectively. I would love to know how many times both the ponies and the helpers climbed that hill!
Saturday Fund Raising Abseil - John
Radcliffe Womens' Centre This was a day to remember! A huge fund-raising event during which we hoped to raise 30,000 pounds for much-needed funds. Final figures are yet to come in but I was so impressed at how everyone overcame their nerves and pulled together for an amazing effort. I have to say that I got a huge buzz from it and I am now pretty hooked and want to go for bigger buildings each year. I lay down the challenge for this and often wonder why I'm not so popular. Seriously, thanks so much to all those brave souls for their time, gumption and laughter on such a great day. Thanks also to all those generous sponsors without whom the day would never have happened. Your money will be put to great use for a wonderful charity. Sue Taylor (P.S. If you messed up it is not too late to gift your money!) Pics here How I became an Able-bodied Whip for the RDA - April 09 I have been driving my own Shetland pair for three years. I took it up as something to do after my retirement as a busy local GP. Through my work I had contact with the organisers of the Abingdon RDA group, and I found, to my surprise, that I agreed to be assessed to become an Able Bodied Whip (ABW) for the RDA.so that I could accompany Disabled Whips (DW) while driving. Apart from the BDS road safety test, it would be the first “exam” that I had taken in 34 years. As the reality of this began to sink in, I found myself with the same anxious feelings as in those exam rooms 34 years ago. Firstly , and obviously ,you will want to become an ABW, and you should have, and be able to demonstrate, an empathy with disabled people. There is also a need to read around the subject so that basic horse anatomy, health, and stable and paddock management are properly understood. You should put in practice with an RDA approved horse and carriage, and fully understand harnessing and putting-to, and the different aids and rein attachments that may be used. It would be helpful to discuss your plans with someone who has been assessed as an RDA ABW, and above all else understand about safety. Three of us were due to be assessed, Diane, Diney and myself. We agreed that we needed practice and education, and realised that a thorough reading and understanding of the Log Book was a prerequisite. The Log Book. This is obtainable from your Regional Chairman or Regional Carriage Driving Representative. Contact your local branch for this information. It is a very comprehensive book of 34 pages, divided into sections. Part 1 is about yourself, your experience and the syllabus required to become an ABW. This does require careful reading and understanding. A valid first Aid certificate is usually necessary, and if not possessed then knowledge of first aid will also be assessed. Part 2 covers disabled carriage driving in general and the RDA safety code in particular for the safety of the disabled whip, horse, carriage, helpers and ABW. This information is another must to understand. There is information about suitable reins, bits and putting-to for the drive. Part 3 deals with the three grades that can be undertaken by the disabled whip. There is a further supplement of information for helpers and ABWs., and advice about injuries, the need to report these and see that the report is acted upon. I would re-emphasise that a thorough reading and understanding of this log book is essential. The three of us met on a few occasions and practiced with the RDA approved horse (Speckles) and carriage. The carriages approved for RDA work bear little resemblance to the usual carriages. They are often rear wheel steering, if four wheeled, which takes a bit of getting used to. They may have detachable ramps or lifts at the rear to enable the Disabled Whip to mount and dismount if confined to a wheelchair. The front seats are also removable so that the wheelchair can be clamped down safely in the driving position. The carriages also tend to rattle more than the standard carriage. Fortunately for us Speckles was a well-adjusted compliant and willing horse. The Assessment We three, and helpers, met the day before the test to clean the carriage and check it over. We familiarised ourselves with harnessing, applying a second set of reins and discussing things that we were not sure about. The harness was given a thorough clean. There was a general feeling of mounting excitement. We had two RDA approved assessors, who tried, nearly successfully, to put us at our ease. The test was divided into three parts- theory, with one of the assessors, on stable and paddock management, general horse care, safety and past experience. I felt the questions were appropriate and very thorough. The horse (Speckles) was then harnessed with an ongoing explanation of parts, safety and correct application and understanding of the parts of the harness demonstrated. The second assessor then took each candidate for a short drive on the adjoining road and field to assess our own ability to drive the turnout safely and competently, while questions on safety and procedure were asked. Walk, trot and halt were conducted. There was a short cone and slalom course. The turn-out was returned to the yard where the second set of reins were attached. The assessor acted as the disabled whip, and safety on mounting was explained. The DW was shown how to hold the reins correctly, in the Classic coaching style, and some points of safety explained to him. The turn out was taken to the field by the ABW and explanations were given on turning, halting, trotting and walking. The DW was then put in control and simple manoeuvres explained and observed. The use of the whip was explained to him and observed. At all times an awareness of safety was required, both in action and in theory. It was necessary to demonstrate a clear understanding of the appropriate use of helpers. With some relief we came back to the yard, and eventually our assessors called us together. We had all passed- One with flying colours and two with a well-merited advisory comment or two. Relief complete, after a total assessment time in excess of three hours, we relaxed and had a cheerful time clearing up. Was it worth it? - Definitely yes. Would I advise others to do this? - Yes, definitely. It is an ideal opportunity to contribute some of our own enjoyment and knowledge of driving to those who love driving, but who are less fortunate physically than we are, and who, without our help, could not get the same enjoyment out of driving that we do. It is also an ideal opportunity to review your own driving practice and consolidate your knowledge. I found the logbook to be a bit daunting, but actually full of good commonsense and information. The assessment was thorough, fair and quite searching. Above all it is necessary to understand that your duty of care is to the Disabled Whip, the helpers, yourself and the horse, ever remembering that if things go wrong the ABW is in charge, and must never worsen any danger that may already exist. If you decide to contribute your help to this valuable charity, good luck, and I am sure you will be welcomed, and helped to enjoy it, and in return obtain a great deal from it. In Summary
Witney College visit
Eleven
students from Witney College, studying for a National Diploma in
Horse Management, visited the Thursday morning class of our Group on
26th March, with their Tutor, David Hamer. They arrived
just in time to do some grooming, and tacking up, and then helped
with the class of adults. Once the class was over they
all watched our new Group dvd, which should have given them a good
insight into how the Group works, and what we do for our many
riders, drivers and vaulters.
Saturday 22nd Nov 08. Instructor Training at the RDA Many thanks to all who gave demonstrations and talks To all those who arranged it and also to those who worked behind the scenes. We had a very informative and interesting day with a large turnout. This was the program (links lead to Power Point presentations): 10.00
“Is My Horse in Pain? How can I Tell?” Sue Devereux BA BVSC
MRCVS Lloyds Bank give us a make-over. Many thanks to Lloyds Bank who have done a wonderful job on our driveway. We have also had our school painted which makes it so much light. RM The
great team from RM, led by Chris Wilson, who spent a Friday painting
our tack room and the gallery window.
Thank you RM team! In
2008 50th The Game Fair was held at When we agreed to do it months before, it sounded easy! There was, in the end, of course, a huge amount of planning. We were to be in a 15 meter square arena, so decided that two children at a time would be enough. Speckles and Charlie were the chosen, best behaved, never do anything wrong, ponies! In all 14 children demonstrated over the 3 days, and all thoroughly enjoyed the experience of performing in front of a crowd of strangers, with all sorts of things going on all around them – we even had the hunt in the next door arena. It was very very hot, and the ponies found their stabling very small and not what they were used to. Charlie took 2 of our helpers on an unexpected dash for freedom – how I wish I had had a camera. He also thought the hunt very interesting, but once he was in the arena he was as good as gold. Terry
who runs the South Region Caravan was a tower of strength to us in
several hours of need. Milla sadly twisted her ankle and
required the attention of the paramedics, thus leaving us with out a
leader – Terry gallantly came to the rescue. Gwen instructed
all 7 sessions and did a brilliant job, and I think that everyone
thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The crowds were immense and
the organisers of the Fair must be very proud of themselves for
producing such an immaculate event.
More pictures in right-hand margin Catherine Duff has just completed an epic 86 miles in under 24 hours. She ran and walked from Ivinghoe Beacon near Aylesbury to Avebury in Wiltshire - all along the Ridgeway. She is hoping to raise a huge sum of money for the Clwyd Special Riding Centre and Abingdon RDA. It's not too late to donate! You can pledge money by email or leave a cheque at the stables. Please be sure to fill in the form for Gift Aid (you'll find some at the stables). Well done Catherine - you are an amazing star! Support Catherine here - send us an email
Waiting on the Ridgeway for Catherine.
Catherine and team on the Ridgeway. The Manor Preparatory School in Abingdon have raised a magnificent amount for the purchase of Red Rooster of the Manor and George of the Manor. Thanks to all the children, parents staff and sponsors.
Abingdon RDA twins with Kenya RDA Visit to Kenya RDA March 08As most of you know, Ann and I havea close connection with Kenya; Ann having lived there in the past, and I still spend most of every winter there. So we were thrilled when our dream of twinning with Kenya RDA became a reality last year. Sue Anderson, who is their senior riding instructor and very much a driving force, has become a personal friend and of course was equally delighted that our twinning idea got the official go-ahead from National HQ. It was a great thought to get some green baseball caps with the twinning logo on them as Christmas presents for the Kenya RDA riders and our thanks go to all of you who so generously financed them. In January I took these caps out to Kenya intending to present them to the riders as soon as we arrived. But the December elections in Kenya sparked off a very troubled period, and the Rift Valley area in particular became very unstable with widespread ethnic cleansing, resulting in large refugee camps. A very sad sight which I never thought I would experience, let alone become involved in. A number of the Kenya RDA riders come from the Dagoretti Children’s’ Home which is based in a typically overcrowded dormitory area near Nairobi. While the political troubles were at their height these children were unable to have their weekly riding lessons so Sue decided that the caps should be presented at the end of term, when matters would hopefully be quieter. Fortunately our return flight to UK was delayed by one day which enabled Hamish and me to spend our last afternoon with the Group and do the honours.
The premises from which the Group operates is very close to Sue’s home although sadly the land has now been sold. This means the Group will have to move to a temporary place until such time as they can find and finance a permanent centre. We arrived early to set up the equipment and to get the hats and shoes sorted for Sue’s 2 rides, while the syces (grooms) with the ponies, which are lent by local people, saddled up with special tack as necessary. The children arrived in a smart new minibus looking happy and excited at the prospect of their weekly ride. They all knew the routine of sitting in the shade shelter where hats and safari boots were fitted before each was mounted on their assigned pony under the guidance of Jane, the Group’s physio. The outside school of sand was dusty and very hot. But the kids and helpers all took it in their stride and there was a game of ball catching while waiting for the class to assemble. Sue had decided that the children would take part in the RDA National Musical Ride Video competition later this year, so we spent time practicing the routine which incorporated arm and hand movements depicting giraffes, crocodiles, lions, etc. It will be performed to Africa drum music. It was great to see the obvious enjoyment on the children’s faces and the tremendous encouragement and enthusiasm given by the side-helpers and syces. All the ponies behaved so well coping with such disabled riders. Needless to say I really enjoyed playing my part as a side-helper, looking after 2 absolutely delightful children. I was extremely impressed by the afternoon’s proceedings, including the lovely and caring staff who accompanied the children in the minibus. They even produced drawing paper and coloured pencils to amuse the kids who were able and wanted to use them. Once the children were seated back in the shade I presented each of them with a cap- a big smile on their faces said it all I know Sue Anderson and her team would warmly welcome any of you who wanted to visit them, and you could always combine such a visit with a super holiday in such a beautiful country. Instructors' Training DayOn the 17th November 2007 an Instructors' Training Day was held at the Abingdon Centre. Mrs. Ro Pudden, the National Equine Welfare Officer, ran the day in conjunction with Mrs. Waveney Luke, Oxfordshire County Chairman, and Mrs. Moo Nowell-Smith, Oxfordshire County Instructor.Ro opened the day with a very interesting and down to earth talk on pony use - matching ponies to riders, length of time a rider rides, potential problems caused to our ponies by unbalanced riders, etc., and how we can attempt to make sure our ponies do not suffer unnecessary stress through over use. Ro's talk was followed by a fascinating demonstration by Isla Millar, an Equine Sports Massage Therapist. She had spent the first half of the morning with a paint brush and Clipper in the stalls, where on Clipper's near side she painted in white his skeleton, and on his offside she painted in colours his muscles and tendons, Isla then put Clipper on the lunge and showed us what happens when a horse moves, and how we can avoid unnecessary stresses and strains to our ponies. It was a most interesting morning and we are grateful to both our speakers and to Waveney and Moo for organising such a worth while training day.
Click on image for to enlarge
Click on image for to enlarge Kenya RDAThe children from the Dagoretti Children’s Centre waiting for the arrival of Father Christmas at RDA.
4th November 2007 Dressage Day On November 4th we held an "in-house" dressage day for those riders who were not able to compete at the Southern Region show. Although the weather was not great, around 16 riders turned out to ride. Very many thanks to all those who prepared the horses on the morning, Rebecca and Louise our judge and writer, and also to Francis and Anthony who spent the morning adding up the scores. The horses also have to be mentioned since Sunday is usually their day off! The overall standard of riding was extremely high - a credit to all those who work with the riders. I hope the morning was fun and a unique experience for all concerned. I look forward to possibly holding another day next Autumn. 14th Sept 2007 Sponsored Ride We were extremely disappointed to have to cancel our sponsored ride at Blenheim Palace. Understandably, due to the recent outbreak of foot and mouth, DEFRA would not give permission for us to go ahead. Blenheim Palace keep sheep on the land, so it would have put them at risk. Apologies to all those who were looking forward to a fun day out. July 2007 Abingdon RDA twins with Kenya RDA It was decided at the last meeting of the Abingdon Group Trustees
that we should embark on a 'twinning' arrangement with Kenya.
Some of us have very strong connections with Kenya, and know Sue
Anderson, who runs the Kenya RDA. They feel out on a limb
stuck away in the middle of Africa, and we feel that not only
could we give them some useful input, but that we could learn
a lot from them. I hope that some of our children might enjoy Ann Barlow.
(A Group Member of the Riding for the Disabled Association incorporating Carriage Driving, Registered Company No.5010395, Registered Charity No. 244108)
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