NAME: Caroline Arthur

 

How long have you been a Involved with RDA?  Its probably about 6 years, I am not too sure, better check with Margaret. 

 

And how did you become involved?  My sister in New Zealand emailed Margaret. 

 

What do you enjoy most about being with the RDA?  Horses, being around them and being able to ride them. Oh yeah and the people are great too!!!!

 

What is the best thing you have done with RDA?  Every time I go is the best thing. 

 

Who is your Favorite horse / horses?  I have to say Bart as I have ridden him the most but I do like trying out other horses. 

 

Away from RDA, how are you dealing with the restrictions caused by the pandemic?  It was difficult not being able to visit my parents, my dad is not a well man so this made it especially hard.  But we are so lucky to have the technology to facetime etc.

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NAME: Neil McMurdo

How long have you been a Involved with RDA?

I first rode with the RDA Group at Etal around 1970.  I started riding with Berwickshire RDA in 2011

And how did you become involved?

In late 2011, Having been made redundant and finding my mobility failing, I thought getting back to riding would help me.  The result being that after a break of around 30 years, I was back on a horse.

I was invited to join the Tuesday evening ride and soon got going again.   Margaret Morgan soon picked up that I would benefit from riding without stirrups, which allowed me to stretch my legs as well as concentrate on balance.  I also used a ‘bar’ on the reins making it so much easier to use one hand, whilst my right hand was accommodated holding onto a strap.

I also took the role of Rider’s trustee and held this until I took the role of treasurer on the Edinburgh & Borders region RDA and assisted inn various fundraising activities.

What do you enjoy most about being with the RDA?

When I was riding ‘Real Horses’ I used to drive to the sessions wondering what we would be quizzed on that night.  I found this a nice challenge in addition to riding.   If I am being honest, I do miss riding Bart.  He was so responsive to my using that bar rein. Of late I have been riding Sandy (My decision).  Recently I even had a canter!  Riding with what is on the screen in front of me is good and the movement gives me exercise.

What is the best thing you have done with RDA?

Riding wise, I got back into what I did many years ago.  I often wonder if I ought to have followed my fellow riders down the dressage route.  RDA also gave me the opportunity to meet the Princess Royal on two occasions which was very nice and added to my meeting other Royal members. AS mentioned previously I was also given the chance to be the riders Trustee, which I really enjoyed and felt as if I was contributing to the group.

Who is your Favorite horse / horses?

I have been privileged to have ridden quite a few horses in my time with the Berwickshire RDA.  If I had to pick one, it would be Bart Simpson.  He works so well with the bar rein and also rides, going forward, very freely.  In Sandy’s favour, he does not have unscheduled ‘Poo’ breaks

Away from RDA, how are you dealing with the restrictions caused by the pandemic?

I have found 2021 easier than 2020.  In 2020, we did not travel far whilst this year we have managed to have two 3 day beaks away from home.  Since March 2020 I have not been driving which has been hard to adapt to.

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Name: Sheena Parker

How long have you been a Involved with RDA?

I think I've been riding up at the Berwickshire Group RDA for about 7-8years.

And how did you become involved?

My doctor encouraged me to contact Margaret. I was so nervous to do so it took me another year before I actually emailed Margaret. 

What do you enjoy most about being with the RDA?

The horses are amazing. I love them so much. The touch , the sound, the look  the smell and the connection you get between yourself and your horse.  All the people around are just like family.

What is the best thing you have done with RDA?

Qualifying to go to the Nationals at Hartpury.

Who is your Favorite horse / horses?

 Torfy was always my favourite.  I rode him for six years , he looked after me so well. I miss him so much.  Hopefully Rio and I will be able to bond like that too.

Away from RDA, how are you dealing with the restrictions caused by the pandemic?

I've struggled with all the restrictions of the past two years. Not being able to meet up with my family and missing out on seeing the horses was hard. Going to the Horses always helps me physically and mentally.