Plymouth College pupil, Amy Searle, 14, is one of just five dressage riders to be selected for the South West Rider Development Pathway (RDP) assessment day. The new training initiative has been launched by the Pony Club to identify Olympic equestrian stars of the future.
Amy's selection comes after a successful 2013 season which saw her secure two top three finishes at the National Pony Society Dressage Championships and qualify for the National Trailblazers' Dressage final. She is a member of the British Young Riders Dressage Scheme and receives help and support from Mary Tyrell, owner of her local riding stables. She also attends Pammy Hutton clinics at Tall Trees Arena.
Supported by the British Equestrian Federation Excel Talent Programme, the RDP starts this spring with nine regional assessment and training days. These are open to Pony Club Members aged 12-18 years who meet specified criteria in their chosen discipline of dressage, showjumping or eventing. The South West session takes place on 15 April.
The most talented riders from the nine assessment days will then be invited to attend a national camp at Somerford Park Equestrian Centre in June, where they will receive further coaching in their chosen discipline. At the end of the two-day camp a final six riders will be selected for the Pony Club's Rider Development Squad. This will aim to prepare them for the talent pathways of the Olympic disciplines, the BEF's Sport England funded Excel Talent Programme, and the UK Sport Funded World Class Programme.
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