Two dressage competitors supported by a Buxton-based disabled riding charity have crowned their successful 2023 season with impeccable performances at the Equissage Para Bronze and Silver Summer Championships.
Jessica Limb of Chesterfield and Vivienne Milburn of Great Longstone – both competing on behalf of Helen Atkin Group Buxton Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) – triumphed against colleagues from across the UK at the prestigious event, held in association with British Dressage, at Hartpury University and College, Gloucestershire, on August 23 and 24.
Jessica, riding Hexden Dancing Stranger, achieved second place in the RDA Grade 7 class, while Vivienne, riding Strathwillan of Stanford, scored second place in the RDA Grade 6 category.
Janine Frost, Chairperson of Helen Atkin Group RDA, said: “Both Jess and Vivienne upped their game against tough opposition from the highest-scoring junior and senior riders who competed in the RDA National Championships last month, scoring even better marks than last time.
“Both they and their horses rose to the challenge with highly polished performances, and we couldn’t be prouder of their achievement, which is a real coup for our group. We all feel very honoured that they have been our first-ever ambassadors at the very highest national level – a British Dressage-supported UK Para Dressage competition.
“Many hours of practice and preparation were put in behind the scenes to ensure that both riders and horses were at their best on their big day, so I’d like to extend a sincere thank you to everyone involved.”
Helen Atkin Group Buxton RDA is a voluntary group providing riding therapy for local disabled children and adults using selected horses and ponies based at Buxton Riding School, Fern Farm. London Road, Buxton.
New volunteers are always welcome, so if you would like to help and want to find out more, please contact Deborah Ward on 07940 516060 or email wardsinbuxton@gmail.com.
