St Richard's
A traditional Catholic co-educational boarding school
from Nursery through to Preparatory School
Riding at St Richard's - a former pupil's account
Being in the fortunate position to be able to choose what prep school I went to, and being slightly overwhelmed by the great choice of schools in the area, it was the St Richard's park full of ponies and cross country fences that was the deciding factor. I had a pony at home and the thought of being able to take it too school with me made the whole idea of going away to school far less of a problem.
My memories
of the riding at St Richard's are only positive and,
although at the time it seemed to be just about having fun, when looking
back, I can see how the lessons instilled so many of the basics of
horsemanship that I now use every day. From catching and tacking
up, to jumping a cross country course, St Richard's most definitely gave
me a great start on how to do these things correctly.
The one day event and show jumping competitions throughout the year, gave me an excellent introduction to competitive riding and it was the enjoyment from these competitions that I feel encouraged me to keep with riding once I had left St Richards.
Although, in my year, St Richard's were able to win the Inter-School Championships, it was the memories of galloping down the beach with my class mates and the picture of Fizzer sticking his head through the window every history class that will stay with me.
St Richard's
is a great place to learn how to ride and I will always
be thankful. The enjoyment and
basic understanding of horses instilled there has encouraged me to
continue to ride since I left and has no doubt contributed to the
success I have had.
written by
Guy Pearson-Gregory (4th at the under 21 championships 2009)