Wednesday, 16 November 2022
The Carriage Driving Sport Group for Drivers with Disabilities (CDSGdd), affiliated with British Carriagedriving (BCD), aims to encourage participation in carriagedriving for all. The group is predominantly focused on creating a pathway to support para-drivers coming from the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) environment, working towards BCD competitions.
CDSGdd recently held a coaching clinic over two days at the Unicorn Trust Equestrian Centre in Stow-on-the-Wold, where they introduced a number of first-time and novice para-drivers to the sport. They also provided support for coaches to develop their skills to suit the requirements of para-drivers, helping them to achieve their greatest potential and, most of all, have fun.
Giselle Locket, clinic organiser, commented, "We had an amazing two-day clinic with a wide range of participants, from Becky Kemp who is paralysed from her ears down and only able to communicate with her eyes and a letter board, to Amanda Shirtcliffe, a Grade 3 international para rider, who was cantering around barrels on only her fourth time in the carriage. It was amazing to see Becky and her team from the Cavalier Centre were able to get her chair onto their carriage and she was driven around the arena, her smile at the end told the story. Deb Daniels, our leading para team driver who started through RDA and is preparing for the 2023 World Championships, was on hand to inspire the drivers and showcase the difference the quick-release harness has made to her. We’ve received great feedback from coaches, volunteers and helpers, describing it as the most inspiring inclusive event with a real buzz about it!"
The clinics have given para-equestrians the opportunity to try something new in a friendly environment, make new friends and develop new skills.
“As a newcomer to driving with the RDA, I was made to feel very welcome, everything was explained without being too complicated or overwhelming,” said one participant. "Confidence, skills and knowledge improved for all who took part, including the drivers themselves as well as the coaches and helpers."
Another participant added, “There was really good interaction between both trainers and audience, more than I have ever had before- a super course, thank you.”
The CDSGdd explained that the sport of carriage driving has become increasingly popular for those challenged by disability because competition can take place between all abilities on a level playing field, with no limits to what people can achieve. Of course, there is the added enjoyment of being able to spend time with horses, no matter what ability or experience you have.
For more information about carriage driving, visit British Carriagedriving. For more about the course, visit CDSGdd.