BBC 3
Emile was recently featured on BBC3’s Natalie Cassidy’s Britain which filmed a short documentary on Sam Martin’s and his quest to ride at The 2012 Olympics. Through the Foundation Emile provided Sam with a course of lessons at his yard with the build up to Sam competing at the ‘Strictly Come Dressage’ Event. The programme clearly shows Emile’s passion to train young riders whilst keeping a realistic view on their development. The programme ended with extracts from the ‘Strictly’ event which probably reminded all those who took part just how much effort went in to everyone’s performance!
Household Cavalry
Emile was invited by The Ebony Riding Club to a reception which was held at the Officers Mess at the Household Calvary in Kensington. The event was to help raise money needed to build a riding centre in Brixton for the club. Along with Tessa Jowell MP, Emile gave a short speech on why the Foundation funds lessons for the club and the positive effects this has on these children’s lives. A short film was shown which showed just how much the involvement with horses has on the families within the community. It is hoped that the reception will help to raise funds for the Ebony Centre and Emile will continue to fund and support this important project.
Ebony Awards at Chelsfield Riding Centre, Orpington.
Eleven children from The Ebony Riding Club held their end of term progress competition at the Riding Centre. Mary-anne attended on behalf of the Foundation to see the children ride. The children had an hour lesson where they were assessed. They also had to tack up a horse and answer a question paper. Marks were given accordingly for each section.
Mary-anne commented on the children’s riding and was very impressed by their attitude to the horses. 'They were all very quiet around the horses and appeared to try really hard. Most showed a good balance and were quiet with their hands, all the ponies were constantly being patted after each exercise and it was obvious to see what positive effect this has on the children.'
The award ceremony afterwards was fun with all the children receiving a goody bag from the BHS and a book each (on horses of course!)
The photographs show their enjoyment!
NEW PROJECTS
ST. CHARLES RC PRIMARY SCHOOL, SWINTON , MANCHESTER.
The Foundation is funding lessons for 10 children to ride weekly at Ryders Farm in Salford. It is hoped over the year that 60 children will benefit from this project. Here are some of the children’s letters (click on them to see them in more detail) and drawings which accompanied their application for funding!
 |
 |
|
by Ellie-May and Niamh |
||
 |
 |
|
by James Halsted-Vaite |
||
 |
 |
|
 |
 |
|
CHECKENDON EQUESTRIAN CENTRE
The Foundation is also in the process of organising lessons for schools in Reading/Oxford at Checkendon Equestrian Centre . Mr and Mrs Greenbury who own this lovely centre have kindly offered to work with the Foundation and provide lessons for these children.
There are a number of other projects being considered but this always depends on funds so please make a donation. If you are involved with any event perhaps you could run a raffle or even better hold the event in aid of the Foundation. If you would like to do this please contact Mary-anne on 01435 866 766 to discuss further.
FORTHCOMING FUND RAISING EVENTS
EQUESTRIAN ART EXHIBITION - Details for this are in the process of being finalised so will update as soon as we can!
INTER SCHOOL EQUESTRIAN EVENTS
The Foundation is hoping to work with the Pony Club and Schools that run Inter School Equestrian Events to raise the awareness of the Charity and its work to encourage fund raising activity. It is also hoped that this will show these children how fortunate they are to be able to ride horses and compete. We also hope to approach Riding Clubs to encourage fund raising.
‘Strictly Come Dressage’ will be held again this year as it was such a success and we keep getting asked when and where !! Date to follow shortly.
There are many other events in the pipeline so keep logging on for news!