ELEVATE Equitation ran two training events on Monday, October 30th, at Knightfield Stud in Co Kildare and Gransha Equestrian Centre, Co Down.

Both sets of young riders availed of a group coaching session, with either Sue Smallman or Kirsty Jackson, as well as a group stable management session with either Ruth Wiseman or Yvonne Chisholm.

The riders at Gransha were treated to a very informative sports psychology talk with Heather Graham, while those at Knightfield had an inspirational talk from Irish international dressage rider Laragh Byrne. The 15-year-old spoke of her journey from starting out in Trailblazers with Dressage Ireland to being a member of the 2023 Irish Pony European team.

Elevate Equitation, a Dressage Ireland/Irish Pony Society initiative supported by Horse Sport Ireland, provides access for riders aged between six and 18 to top-class, affordable coaching at major venues throughout the country. The programme is open to both members and non-members of DI and the IPS at any level. For further dates and information, check out the Elevate Equitation Facebook page or email: ElevateEquitation@gmail.com