My Side Saddle Riding Profile: A Journey of Elegance and Achievement

In 1990, my love for side saddle riding was ignited when my mother stumbled upon an article in an equine magazine. At the time, I had reached my final year with my 15hh Show Hunter pony and was yearning for a new challenge as I couldn't afford to show horses into the adult senior rankings. Little did I know that this would be the beginning of an extraordinary journey.

I embarked on my side saddle adventure with my first lesson at Heather Hall Riding School in Leicestershire, under the guidance of Mark White (BHSII). However, the riding school eventually closed, and I sought further instruction. The Side Saddle Association directed me to Victoria Nurcombe (formerly Thorne), a highly accomplished side saddle rider from the 1970s and 1980s. Victoria's expertise and support became instrumental in shaping my side saddle skills.

In 1993, I further honed my abilities by training with the late Roger Philpott at Pittern Hill Stables in Kineton, Warwickshire. I successfully completed three competency grades in September of that year and earned my "B" panel Side Saddle Instructor's certificate on December 16, 1993. Determined to excel, I achieved the highest competency grade (IV+) on August 15, 1997, and became a side saddle panel ride Judge in 2003.

With my newfound expertise, I showcased my ex-Show Hunter pony in side saddle veteran classes and my mother's 15.3hh Hanoverian/Thoroughbred mare in various equitation classes. Our most notable successes came in side saddle show jumping and working hunter classes.

In 1993, I made my debut appearance at the prestigious National Side Saddle Championships in Malvern, Worcestershire. This was an exciting milestone in my journey, and it set the stage for even greater accomplishments.

In 1996, I received a remarkable opportunity to ride Longclose Guilthwaite, Sue Thorne's renowned side saddle Show Hunter pony. This marked my return to the National Side Saddle Championships after a break of 17 years. It was an incredible experience, especially considering that Victoria, Sue's daughter, had been the Junior Side Saddle Rider of the Year during my hiatus. Together, Longclose Guilthwaite and I triumphed in veteran and versatile pony classes, reaffirming my passion for side saddle riding.

Unfortunately, a shortage of quality horses forced me to take a hiatus from side saddle riding between 1996 and 2002. However, I remained devoted to my equestrian pursuits and obtained my BHSAI qualification on April 3, 1998, alongside working full-time office jobs to fund my tuition and examinations. Along the way, I had the honour of teaching the art of side saddle riding to a wonderful group of ladies in Italy in December 2006. This opportunity arose unexpectedly through a phone call I received while waiting to compete in the Ladies' Hunter class at The Royal Show in Warwickshire. Initially thinking it was a scam, I was overjoyed to participate and share my knowledge.

From 2002 until today, under the name of Sarah Walker, my side saddle riding career has progressed from being a side saddle "wanna be" to becoming an Area champion and eventually a side saddle national champion. This incredible journey has been filled with dedication, passion, and a deep appreciation for the art of side saddle riding.

As I reflect on my side saddle riding profile, I am grateful for the opportunities, challenges, and triumphs that have shaped my path. Each ride has taught me the importance of elegance, precision, and the timeless connection between horse and rider.