FEATURES
High Jump at Hickstead T
rotting around one of the prestigious Hickstead arenas, I tried to steady my nerves. “Focus”. “Breath”. I reminded
myself as I took a last look at the fences spread before us. I took a deep breath and asked for canter…
Horse riding has been my obsession for over 20 years so I was delighted to hear that I could not only continue my sport but the Royal Air Force would encourage me to do so. I have been serving in the RAF for 10 years, originally joining TG12 but recently qualifying as an Aerospace Battle Manager.
I have been eager to get involved with the RAF Equitation Association (RAFEA) for many years but felt I lacked a horse with the ability required (show jumping a height of 1.20m) for the team. However, in early June an email dropped into my inbox seeking riders to attend a training camp with the opportunity to be selected to represent the RAF at Hickstead – an international competition venue officially titled the Royal Longines International Horse Show and a pretty big deal in the horsey world! I often get these emails but this time the height of show jumping required to attend was 85cms upwards; well within the capability of my current ride. A few emails and telephone calls later, I officially applied for a place and found out within one week that I have been selected to attend.
Next step; to check Sidney’s diary! Sidney (better known as Sid) is the most popular horse on our yard. He is an 18 year old, 15 hands high, grey WelshxArab breed that can turn his hoof to anything! Sid and I have been a partnership for the last four years who belongs to a friend of mine who kindly allows me to ride him. Ensuring that I have everything I require in the horsey suitcase for a week is not an easy task and fortunately I had the help of my good friend Cpl Claire Scott (aka groom for the week!). Horse in tow we set off for the marathon journey from RAF Boulmer, Northumberland to East Sussex. Excited is not the word!
We were met at Martyn and Catherine Fowdreys’ “Equestrian Physiotherapy” yard on Tuesday evening by Wg Cdr Ruth Harris,
”One of our many RAF sports-related stories for Envoy and to entice you in to having a go yourself!” by Sgt Keeley Skinner
Keeley and Sid
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