Thinking of what to buy for Christmas presents: There are a limited number of anniversary mugs, cushion covers, pens and poems still available and orders remain open for you to purchase merchandise to celebrate the Side Saddle Association's 50th Anniversary. Postage rates are available on application from the Hon. General Secretary, however ,the SSA cannot be held responsible for delivery to final destination nor guarantee mugs will arrive intact.

Please click here for order form.

Please click here for order form.

The Side Saddle Association is proud to have been invited back for the second time to be part of ITV's Love Your Weekend series hosted by Alan Titchmarsh.

Riders and supporters from Area 10 travelled to a farm in Hampshire for the filming in mid-September for the Remembrance Sunday edition of the programme. The show will be airing this Sunday 10th November from 9.30am until 11.30am.

The Associated Championships were held at Onley Grounds Equestrian from 22 to 26 October inclusive.

This year the Side Saddle Classes were all held on the same day which meant the logistics were easier albeit many of our Members competed in other sections across the week too.

The Side Saddle Association was very proud to be represented by the following riders:

Belinda Wilkins (Area 8), Caroline de Freyne Shrubsole (Area 5), Chloe Marsh (Area 12), Clare King (Area 8), Gemma Whitworth (Area 5), Harriet Mitchell (Area 8), Jennie Daniels (Area 5), Jenny Martin (Area 4), Katie Ockenden Evans (Area 4), Kerry Davey (Area 12), Laura Cull-Hooker (Area 9), Laura Wright (Area 5), Louise Allen (Area 4) and Samie Griffiths (Area 11).

Many miles were travelled between the fourteen Members getting to the venue and back home and whilst the Area 5 Members were fairly local a big shout out must go to all who travelled significant distances but especially Laura Cull-Hooker who travelled down on her own from East Lothian in Scotland with her Exmoor and Chloe Marsh who travelled to and from Dorset with her baby on board too.

With an excellent standard of horse and rider turnout and fantastic support and camaraderie which was a great pleasure to be part of, this group of SSA Members show cased side saddle and The Side Saddle Association with maximum impact. The standard of riding was superb with the girls ably demonstrating that the standards reached riding astride were equally attainable riding aside. Very well done and thank you to each and every one of you.

RESULTS:

INTRO: 1st Kerry Davey, 2nd Samie Griffiths
PRELIM: 1st Harriet Mitchell (Silver), 2nd Clare King (Bronze), 3rd Jennie Daniels,
NOVICE: 1st Gemma Whitworth (Gold), 2nd Harriet Mitchell (Bronze), 3rd Clare King
ELEM: 1st Gemma Whitworth, 2nd Laura Wright

The 50th Anniversary Newsletter has been posted to Members who take correspondence by Royal Mail and emailed to those who requested online correspondence. A limited number of Newsletters are available to purchase, the UK price is £7.50 including P&P, Overseas prices on application as postage rates vary. To order your 50th Anniversary Newsletter please contact the SSA Hon. General Secretary to arrange payment: secretary@sidesaddleassociation.co.uk

Numbers are limited so first come, first served.

Dr Erica Munkwitz has kindly offered to collect and summarise data to celebrate the 50th Anniversary which will be undertaken by means of a google survey.

All SSA members past and present are invited to complete the short survey and upload photos and video clips to add your memories to the SSA's 50th Anniversary collaboration project and help the Association collate, share and preserve memories from the last 50 years for the future generation of side saddle riders. Please note by submitting the completed survey, you give permission for the SSA to share, post, and publish your answers and media. You retain copyright of all images and media. 

The link below will take you to the survey: https://forms.gle/uRx8SkQNiDZTnDsc7
For those without access to email/internet who would like to take part in the survey please send a SAE to the Hon. General Secretary who will send you a hard copy of the document.

* A quick reminder that raffle prize donations will be very welcome.
* Don't forget to get your dogs pampered ready for the Dog Show.
* The Silent Auction is still open, the latest bids are:

Lot1 - £100
Lot 2 - £150
Lot 3 - £200
Lot 4 – £220
Lot 5 - £50
Lot 7 - £350
Lot 8 - £150
Lot 9 - £275

The National Side Saddle Show is fast approaching and we're sure you are all preparing for the trip to Addington for our festival of Side Saddle.

To help us gather our collective memories of the big show and indeed this whole milestone 50th Anniversary year, we ask that you use the hashtag: #SSA50years on all your relevant social media posts, reels, stories and TikToks. This will allow us to search for and share your memories with the whole side saddle community as well as having an archive for years to come and the next milestone anniversary. We can't wait to see what you all get up to so spread the word and get snapping, filming, editing and sharing. There will be a prize later in the year for the best video, reel or TikTok we find using #SSA50years

Good luck everybody. Let's see what you've got!

Silent Auction Bid Update
20 May 2024
• Lot 1 £100
• Lot 2 £50
• Lot 3 £200
• Lot 4 £100
• Lot 8 £75
• Lot 9 £250

The 2023/24 Online Equitation Series has now finished and the Points Championship placings are published on the Just So website. It was a closely fought championship this year with both Adult and Junior winners decided on the total of the collectives awarded over the series. Please click here for March 2024 and League Table results.

A big 'well done' to everyone who took part and it was lovely to see some new members taking part this year as well as seasoned regulars and a big 'Thank You' to our 6 judges who all gave up their time to judge your tests– we're sure you will have found the comments and guidance provided useful. We hope the series will return again later this year in October but don't forget, our JumpCoach on-line training is available all year round, and videos of you jumping can be submitted via the Just So website 'Whats On' page for feedback from a SSA List Instructor – great prep for the National Show!

Sarah Holman Sparks Side Saddle Enthusiasm in Saudi Arabia:
Saudi Arabia – traditionally, a socially conservative society – has witnessed momentous change in recent years. Women have increasing freedom to drive and to travel independently, empowering them to pursue sport and leisure activities like never before. Increasing numbers of Saudi women are getting involved in horse riding, and in doing so are honouring the long-established equestrian heritage of the region.

In this context, Sarah Holman, Side Saddle Association Judge and Instructor, has taken the intrepid step to visit the Saudi capital Riyadh accompanied by a Champion & Wilton saddle. In partnership with her friend Rebecca Hitchen, a coach at Working Line Traditional Equestrian Centre in Riyadh, she found a willing audience who were delighted to learn more. It is clear that the elegance and modesty of this riding style have a natural interest among Saudi women. One of the highlights of Sarah's visit was her lecture on side saddle riding which captured the imagination by covering its history and the types of competitive classes that exist today. The demonstration and explanation of the riding apron and veil were particularly popular, and the audience was astounded to find that it is possible to jump side saddle. Mohammed al-Tahan, founder of Working Line Traditional Equestrian Centre said, "it was amazing to see the quality of the English side saddle which was made in the reign of King George VI but is still in excellent condition today."

The Side Saddle Association 49th Annual General meeting was held on 24 March 2024. Officers elected were:

• President – Jane Pryor
• Chairman – Vanessa Hood
Vice Chairmen: Shirley Anderson. Henrietta Barton, Penny Clarke and Donna Clayton.

Whilst the resolution from Council re proposed change to the Constitution received a majority of yes votes because there was not 75% of the total votes in favour as per Section 11 of the current Constitution the proposal was not carried.

In the afternoon a wonderful presentation covering the five decades of the Side Saddle Association was given with input from founder Valerie Dunmore-Francis, Maureen James, Vanessa Hood, Patricia Drake, Vivienne Hogg, Belinda Wilkins, Amanda Say and Gillian Greenwood. With a range of film clips, videos and photos supported by fascinating facts and anecdotes it was a most enjoyable afternoon.

Please click here for order form.

A clothing Range to celebrate the Side Saddle Association's 50th Anniversary is now avaialble to order.

Please click here for order form.

As part of the SSA 50th Anniversary regional celebrations the Area 19 Chairman, Glynis Hughs, has set a 50 for 50th Challenge that it open to all Members – please click here for more information

50 for 50 challenge
50 for 50th entry form
50 for 50th recording form

Limited Edition Side Saddle Bear

There will be 50 Side Saddle Bears available to purchase on a first come, first served basis.
£30 EACH
 Each bear will have a 50 years golden sash.

The bears are approximately 16 inches tall
(the image above is for illustration only)

The bears need to be ordered and paid for in advance, order forms are available on the SSA website or from the Hon. Gen. Secretary, payment by bank transfer or cheque only
Closing date for receipt of is 31st December 2023

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD AN ORDER FORM

• Sunday 21 January 2024 at 2pm – Judging the Open Equitation Class and an Introduction to the new Contemporary Ladies Class
• Wednesday 6 March 2024 at 7pm – Judges Integrity & Conduct and Judging Turnout at the National Championships

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD AN ORDER FORM

Launch of the Better Beginnings Best Practice Guide 'Young Horse Development' coming out on October 9th 2023

The goal of a round-table event and subsequent webinars in 2022 was to produce a best practice guide for young horse development. This ground-breaking guide contains the findings of cutting-edge research and knowledge from the very best in the business. This guide aims to help you understand the very latest, together with tried and tested, thinking about producing your young horse in the best way possible, ensuring the very best beginning as the basis for a long happy life for your equine partner.

Horse & Country will be filming in the International Arena at the National Side Saddle Show 4 – 6 August inclusive.

Follow this link: Live Events (horseandcountry.tv)

• LATE ENTRIES: Entries are still being taken for all classes except the timed classes.

The Associated Championships are held at Bury Farm on Friday 13th-Sunday 15th October. The schedule can be found here - https://britishdressage.online. We run Side Saddle Championships from Introductory to Medium level. To qualify, you need to gain three scores of 60% side saddle at any regular British Dressage Competition between 1st January and 31st August 2023.

Also, if a combination is eligible for any of the other Championship (e.g. They ride a Native etc), they can use the same three scores to qualify for these too.

For more information, visit the website here https://www.britishdressage.co.uk

Ginny Oakley Pope, Chairman of The Side Saddle Association Area 5, was invited to put on a side saddle display at Kimble Point to Point before the first ever Side Saddle Dash held at Kimble. Despite recent heavy rain the going was good and six side saddle riders came forwards and husband and wife riders, Sarah and Roger Edmunds competed on their cobs. Roger's cob IO went to take the short cut home (straight across the course!) Staff got him back in the right direction and they went on to finish the race. Sarah riding Rocky came third – a great example with a cob! Perdy Sasha Dabliz rode Loughnatoosa Stan and also won the Best Turned Out Award. Perdy said 'It was a real thrill, and everyone should have a go. Thank you to Kimble races for putting on their first side saddle dash. Well done to everyone who took part"

Ex point to point rider, Vicky Heal who came in fourth, hasn't raced since about 2008 after breaking too many bones. Vicky travelled from Norfolk and she hadn't told anyone she was doing the dash! Vicky said 'Hunting had finished, and horses were still in, so I saw the dash advertised and thought I could give that a go! So last week me and the horse tried side saddle for the first time. Hats off to the others- it's harder than I thought! When he was playing up in the paddock, I was regretting my spontaneity! Georgie Brearey (Kate Brearey) riding her 14 year old Connemara pony Max, was just pipped at the post by Amy Biggs riding ex racehorse, Silent Warrior. Amy said 'It was quite a wiggly course, literally swapping from going left round one fence then right round the next! It was great to see Lisa Summerfield back under side saddle taking part in the display and looking so smart, along with Lucinda Mitchell who travelled from The Talland School of Equitation to take part. A big thank you to Kimble Races for inviting the side saddle riders to take part and also to Ashley Bowden for sponsoring the side saddle dash – your ongoing support and enthusiasm is very much appreciated.

The AGM was held as a live event for the first time since 2019 on Sunday 26th March at Hogarths Hotel and was enjoyed by all who attended.
The election of Officers was as follows:
PRESIDENT – Jane Pryor
CHAIRMAN – Vanessa Hood
VICE CHAIRMEN – Shirley Anderson, Henrietta Barton, Caroline Hobson & Ann Sadler.

After the formal meeting the presentation of awards including the 2022 Performance Points took place. The winners included:
The Billette Mackie Memorial Training Award – Katie Gulliver, Area 5
The Ralph James Memorial Trophy – Linz & Iain Cadle, Area 8

For Performance Points winners please click here

Area 8 is delighted to announce we have the honour of organising the first National Side Saddle Camp in Oxfordshire in between the M4 and M40 and near the M25 for easy access. There are a limited number of spaces, so it is first come first served for all Side Saddle Associations members. This camp will be held at Rosehill Equestrian (RG9 3EB) on the 20th and 21st of May for two days and one night, (there is opportunity to stay Friday and Sunday night if needed, but this will be arranged separately).

There will be group lessons on Saturday, followed by an informative talk and entertainment in the evening. On Sunday there will be an opportunity to run through an equitation or dressage test, and receive feedback with the opportunity to do it again, or a ring craft session, again with feedback and helpful advice. Sunday afternoon there will be a jumping or pole lesson. During this camp, there will be the opportunity to have side saddles, habit and overall turnout checked by affiliated judges. Please send an email to Sarah Clune: Sarah.clune@yahoo.co.uk to register interest; more information with the booking forms will be sent out in due course.

NOTICE is hereby given that the 48th Annual General Meeting of The Side Saddle Association shall be held on Sunday 26th March 2023, at Hogarths Hotel, Four Ashes Road, Dorridge, Solihull, West Midlands B93 8QE, commencing at 11:00am.

By Order of the Council. Ms. Sally Lane Hon. General Secretary to the SSA 20/02/23

The Side Saddle Association is delighted to announce Dr Erica Munkwitz will be the guest speaker at the SSA AGM on 26th March 2023. Erica is a historian of modern British and European history. Her research focuses on gender, sport and empire in modern Britain, specifically women's involvement in equestrianism. Her presentation title is 'A Brief History of Side Saddle Riding'. Erica gave this talk at the Munnings Museum in September 2022; the talk was attended by several SSA Members who said it was a fascinating and informative presentation which they enjoyed very much. In this talk Erica will provide a brief history of ladies' riding from the medieval era, through the Victorian age, and into the present day. She has written a book Women, Horse Sports and Liberation: Equestrianism and Britain from the 18th to the 20th Centuries which was published by Routledge in 2021. This book is the first, full-length scholarly examination of British women's involvement in equestrianism from the eighteenth through the twentieth centuries, with a focus on the evolution of the side-saddle, the transformation of fox-hunting as a sport, women's riding in the Empire, and the transition from riding aside to riding astride. The book will be available to purchase at the AGM at a special rate of £50.

If you would like to purchase a book at the AGM they need to be pre-ordered via Sally Lane, Hon. General Secretary by 1st February 2023 latest.

DOWNLOAD BOOK FLYER HERE

There are two updates from British Equestrian re “equine influenza vaccines within the UK” and “Equine Health Week”. For more information follow one of the links below:
Website – News | The Showing Council
Facebook – (20+) The Showing Council | Facebook

The Equine Ethics and Wellbeing Commission (EEWB) for the FEI delivered its first report on 12th November, to read more click on one of the links below:
News | The Showing Council
(20+) The Showing Council | Facebook

On 24.11.2022 the Faculty of Archaeology of the Masaryk University in Brno in cooperation with the Side Saddle Club of the Czech Republic will hold a workshop on the history and future of the side saddle. Title: "A woman's affair: the past, present and future of riding aside". It will be a hybrid event (English and Czech) in which you can also participate online.... Bettina Keil’s talk will take you through the entire history of the women's cross and side saddle ;-) - and offer some surprising and new insights... Programme and registration:

https://archeo-muzeo.phil.muni.cz 
Please click here for more information

British Equestrian are launching a new initiative “Equine Health Week” from 28 November to 4 December. For more information click on one of the links below:

News | The Showing Council
(20+) The Showing Council | Facebook

The Side Saddle Association is delighted to announce Dr Erica Munkwitz will be the guest speaker at the SSA AGM on 26th March 2023.

Erica is a historian of modern British and European history. Her research focuses on gender, sport and empire in modern Britain, specifically women's involvement in equestrianism. Her presentation title is 'A Brief History of Side Saddle Riding'. Erica gave this talk at the Munnings Museum in September 2022; the talk was attended by several SSA Members who said it was a fascinating and informative presentation which they enjoyed very much. In this talk Erica will provide a brief history of ladies' riding from the medieval era, through the Victorian age, and into the present day.

She has written a book Women, Horse Sports and Liberation: Equestrianism and Britain from the 18th to the 20th Centuries which was published by Routledge in 2021. This book is the first, full-length scholarly examination of British women's involvement in equestrianism from the eighteenth through the twentieth centuries, with a focus on the evolution of the side-saddle, the transformation of fox-hunting as a sport, women's riding in the Empire, and the transition from riding aside to riding astride.

The book will be available to purchase at the AGM at a special rate of £50. If you would like to purchase a book at the AGM they need to be pre-ordered via Sally Lane, Hon. General Secretary by 1st February 2023 latest.

Please click here for more information on the book

Please click here for more information on the book

Please click on one of the links below for an update on Equine Influenza and Vaccination availability:
News | The Showing Council
(20+) The Showing Council | Facebook

This year saw the first Associated BD Side Saddle Dressage Championships at Bury Farm, Slapton, Leighton Buzzard from October 14 – 16.

The SSA roving reporter was unable to attend on the Friday but was reliably informed that Claire Brown posted an impressive score on her veteran Haflinger Stallion, Oxnead Act One (Tom). Claire former Chairman for Area 14, rode a smooth and correct test to win the Silver Championship. Claire and Tom are a well established combination and are happy and very comfortable at this level. Their performance was a pleasure to behold! Bethan Powell, riding Blaengwen the Sting was second, producing another good score. There was little information given to the reporter on this combination sadly.

Saturday was a bright sunny day and the SSA roving reporter was there early to help any riders in need and to generally gather the troops! The Novice test was held indoors with plenty of flower decorations to incite certain equine friends to be adamant that evil fairies were indeed to be found in these small gardens. That withstanding, some very nice tests were performed with top slot going to Gemma Whitworth and Elevated XL (Nod) in the Silver Section. Gemma and Nod are both new to side saddle and this has been their first full season. Gemma is now seeing better scores posted in dressage when she is side saddle rather than astride! This lovely horse enjoys being ridden like this and their test was harmonious and accurate. Second space was taken by Sarah Moreland on Coultard Z (Scottie) who having competed and won at HOYS last week was awaiting loud music and cheers and took a little bit of settling. Tactful and sensitive riding produced a good test with just a few moments of tension taking away some marks. Sarah had sensibly made an early start to ride in the arena familiarization, something that is often handy to do and offered at all BD Championships. Laura Wright and Newlandsfarm Easter (Donkey) had a few looks at the evil flowers but performed a super test. Like Gemma, Laura finds that she is now posting better scores on this homebred New Forest pony when riding side saddle. The dearly loved Donkey would not be described as your 'average dressage mount' but it just shows what good training and hard work can be achieved as she and Laura showed some lovely movements. The Bronze Championship and fourth place was taken by Roger Edmunds, flying the flag for gentlemen side saddle riders on his 17.3hh, big moving, middleweight hunter, Maesfen Manor (Manny). Manny has just successfully finished eventing this season and appeared somewhat keen to get on with the job and move onto the XC section! An exuberant test was carefully and tactfully ridden by Roger.

Sunday saw another fine day. The SSA roving reporter was on site again early to meet more SSA Ladies for this, the last day of the Championships, where the preliminary section was to be contested. This time the test was conducted outside and although sunny the wind was strong and the beautiful flags were making a supreme clinking noise! With 7 combinations coming forward this was the biggest side saddle class of the Associated Championships. We had a huge variety of horses and riders for this class. These included our gentleman rider (Roger Edmunds) and two of our physically challenged ladies, Lucinda Mitchell and Lois Seymour. There were also veteran horses and ponies and some veteran riders! There is no doubt that the SSA were able to show how inclusive they are to all our members and their variety of mounts. Again, the tests were all competitive and grand to watch. Lois Seymour took top slot and the Silver Championship with a forward and snazzy test aboard her veteran Dionissimo, recently crowned VHS Dressage Champion. Coming to the end of her performance, poor Lois started to suffer an asthma attack. It certainly seems that this issue did not cause too many problems for this well known partnership, as the last centre line and halt were superb! Another celebrated pair, Jackie Banks and Bizzie B continued the veteran fight and were placed second. Bizzie B is now 26 years of age and is a total credit to Jackie as she looks amazing and not only carries Jackie to victory but also her young daughter, Xanthe in Junior SSA Classes; their smooth and correct test was well liked. Newlandsfarm Easter (Donkey) enjoyed being outside more and produced a super test to win the Gold Section and come in fourth overall. This little mare is another amazing allrounder who has started Laura off well in her side saddle career. Her beautiful gold sash hung so low that Donkey's knees forced the Velcro undone in the lap of honour! Lucinda Mitchell and Splash of Colour are another well known partnership in the SSA world. Sunday was not a good day for Lucinda one of our physically challenged ladies, pain wise, but she rode a smooth and harmonious test to finish Bronze Champion and take fourth place. This lovely mare is another crowd favourite and is adored by many. A lovely moment was seen when Splash thought the lap of honour may be a bit too exciting and Jackie Banks and Bizzie B came along side to support her and Lucinda. Such was their ride out together that the commentator remarked that it seemed that the side saddle ladies could do anything with such a lovely Pas de Deux being performed!

Please click here for the BD Side Saddle Championship Results
TRR 18/10/22. Photos courtesy of SBM Photography

A 14.5" hire saddle was stolen from Fawkham, Kent last week, please see attached photos, it also has a JSEE ref no etched in the leather under the saddle flap. If you see this saddle please contact: justsoequestrianevents@hotmail.com

The Side Saddle Association is proud to have been invited to be part of ITV’s Love Your Weekend series hosted by Alan Titchmarsh.

Riders Alice Cobden, Claire Lewis, Moya Payne and Paige L’Anson from Areas 8 & 10 and their helpers, along with Chairman, Vanessa Hood, in the spokesperson role and Sally Lane and Sarah Hislam as ground crew travelled to a farm in Hampshire for the filming on August 25th. The show will be airing this Sunday (2nd October) at 9.30am until 11.30am.

The next Online Equitation Series launches soon so look out for more information. The first competition starts in October 2022 and runs through to March 2023 with 6 events in the series. The Online Equitation does not count towards Equitation Qualifying Points but don't forget if you are registered for the Performance Points Awards you can gain points from taking part in this series. Overseas members will be very welcome to take part in the online equitation series. Virtual rosettes will be given to any placed overseas member, however should they want an actual rosette they will be asked to contribute to postage.

THE SSA ONLINE JUMPCOACH IS LIVE AND READY FOR YOUR ENTRIES – GO TO www.justsoequestrianevents.co.uk/whats-on  to make your entry

The Side Saddle Association was deeply saddened to hear of the death of Her Majesty The Queen and send their sincere condolences to King Charles III and his family.

The Queen was one of the most famous and revered side saddle riders across the world; she will always be fondly remembered and respected for her dignity and grace when riding side saddle for 'Trooping the Colour' to celebrate her official birthday which was an ongoing promotion for the elegant art and style of riding side saddle.

As part of our ongoing celebration of The Queen's Platinum Jubilee a special photoshoot will be held on the Friday night in between the Rococo and Caro Cripps classes on the Friday night. Everyone is invited to join in, all you need is a headscarf to wear in the Queen's riding style. If you have a couple of spare scarves please bring them along so we can get everyone involved even if they forgot or didn't know they needed a headscarf.

Please help us make this a well supported and fun activity that will be formally shared externally after the event.

Click here to download the schedule

ENTRIES: Entries close on Monday 4th July
CARVERY TICKETS: Don't forget tickets for the Carvery on the Saturday night have to be purchased 2 weeks in advance of the show. Tickets are £20 each.

Please note there is a typo on the hard copy entry form, the price should read £20 NOT £25.

Area 1 in Scotland ran a 'Ride Like the Queen' Day, held in conjunction with Hayfield Riding Centre in Aberdeen on 4th June 2022. John Crawford of Hayfield Riding Centre in Aberdeen has supported side saddle riding for over 25 years and ridden side saddle in his kilt on several occasions. They had a terrific sunny day which was packed full of lessons, followed by an evening demonstration by Jane Pryor, SSA President and Grace Hardie, Area 1 Secretary comprising of a performance to music followed by discussion and many questions. Everyone had a fantastic time!

It's the Queen's Platinum Jubilee Year and a year of celebrations. The Queen will always be fondly remembered for her poise and grace when riding side saddle for 'Trooping the Colour' to celebrate her official birthday.

The Side Saddle Association want to encourage riders to try side saddle for themselves and this is your opportunity to get involved. To celebrate the Platinum Jubilee, the Side Saddle Association are offering riders the chance to 'have a go'. This could either be with your own horse as part of a Have A Go Day or a private lesson on an instructor's horse. You could try on a mechanical horse first.

If you are actively involved with the Pony Club or a Riding Club, your local Area Side Saddle Association would love to come and give a talk or demo. Contact your local area representative for details of events, please click here Hayley please link to the area contacts list on the Areas page. The following SSA Instructors are supporting this initiative and are running 'Have a Go Days' across the year:
• Knights of Middle England (Tanya Guest) (Horses available) - Warwickshire. Tel: 01926 400401
• Acrecliffe Equestrian Centre (Anne & Fiona Everall) (Horses available) - West Yorkshire. Tel: 07855 307291
• Back Lane Stables (Anne Tate & Gemma Hughes) (Horses available) - Leeds. Tel: 07901 555397
• Gill Greenwood – (Lessons on own horse only) - East Yorkshire. Tel: 07851 563242
• Penny Clarke – (Lessons on own horse or mechanical horse only) - Gloucestershire. Tel: 07849 698467
• Rachael Forkings – (Lessons on own horse or mechanical horse only) - Powys. Tel: 07775 593891

What better way to prepare at home for our National Show than with valuable feedback from a SSA list judge and instructor?

Six side saddle riders competed in the championships across a range of tests.
Sharon O'Rourke-Kilburn: 5th in Intro (against astride riders), Harriet Heaton: Intro, Julie Allen: Intro, Beth Russell: Prelim, Jackie Harrison: 4th in Novice (against astride riders), Gill Greenwood: 6th in Novice (against astride riders) and 6th in Elementary against astride riders.

For the pure Side Saddle Championships results were:
Champion = Jackie Harrison and Reserve = Beth Russell.
Well done to all and thank you for flying the side saddle flag.

Congratulations to Morgan Nicholson of Area 11 and her horse Duke on being voted as Spillers Horse Feeds Brand Ambassadors for 2022. Click here to read Morgan's Story

PHOTO BY KIND PERMISSION OF MY FAIR LADY

The Israeli Side Saddle Association rents side- saddles to foreign visitors that like to discover Israel from horseback.For example the Popular Jesus Trail Pilgrimage, or the more strenuous Abraham path. For more details please contact Mrs. Gabriella Hirschsprung, Email: gabriella@4your.horse

Maybe you already jump side saddle or maybe you are thinking of giving it a go, but whether experienced or a novice, JumpCoach is here to help you with constructive feedback on your jumping style from one of our experienced SSA Instructors. It doesn't matter if you have one jump or a whole course you can still submit a video for assessment and feedback. You may already have a video of you jumping but if not, ask someone to film you jumping in landscape view from both directions, so the instructor can see you from the near and off side, including the approach and ride away. If using one or two jumps, ride and film you jumping as many times as you wish in one continuous video or, if riding a course of jumps film the whole course from start to finish. It can be over show jumps, cross country fences, straw bales or anything else that is SAFE to jump of any size. Be sure to ask the person videoing to state your name clearly at the start of the video.

Upload your video to YouTube and then submit your video for assessment by copying and pasting you YouTube link on the entry form via the Whats On page of the Just So Equestrian Events website. Our instructors will then provide you with written helpful feedback and advice based on the judging criteria used for the SSA Equitation Jumping classes. Submit as many videos as you wish but only 1 video of 1 rider per entry please. The fee for submitting a video for feedback is £8. Submissions and payments can be made via the Just So Equestrian Events website

See our Filming Your Jumping Hints & Tips download to help you submit your best video for assessment.

The Arena Eventing Challenge will run from 1st November to 31st March each winter season

• To open up side saddle riding to as many people as possible across as many disciplines as possible.
• To have a stand alone award for Members taking part in Arena Eventing, riding side saddle, points will be awarded for the completion of each event and the winner will be the horse/pony/rider combination with the most points.

PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR RULES AND DETAILS OF HOW TO REGISTER

The first competition starts in October 2021 and runs through to March 2022 with 6 events in the series. Don't forget if you are registered for the Performance Points Awards you can gain points from taking part in this series. Please click here for more information or follow the link below

2021-2022 Schedule
SSA Virtual Equitation Points Championship
Hints & Tips for Filming Your Test
SSA Virtual Equitation Rules

www.justsoequestrianevents.co.uk/product-category/ssa-virtual-equitation-october-2021

Congratulations to Esther Rostron from Area 8 on winning The Side Saddler Rider of the Year 2021. Reserve Side Saddle Rider of the Year was Emma Lee-Smith, Area 4, in third place was Lauren Allin, Area 12, with Emily Saunders, Area 8 placed fourth.

(PHOTO BY EMMPIX)

Members are invited to enter a competition to put forward an idea(s) for a catchy and punchy strapline that sums up the SSA in one line whilst representing the culture, identity and personality of the association.

As an example here are some renowned and classic straplines:
• The Few, The Proud, The Marines - United States Marine Corps
• Don't leave home without it – American Express
• Melts in Your Mouth, Not in Your Hands - M&Ms
• Nothing runs like a deer – John Deere

A small prize will be given to the member who puts forward the winning strapline. The competition will be judged by the President, Chairman and Vice Chairmen of the SSA Council

Entries should be sent to the Hon. Gen Secretary by 31st August 2021: Sally Lane, Hon. General Secretary, The Side Saddle Association, The Lodge, Glebe Farm, Broughton Astley, Leicestershire LE9 6PG. Email: secretary@sidesaddleassociation.co.uk

Photos by courtesy of Anne Chambers

What a wonderful day! All went according to plan and even the sun came out. As a first timer at both the GYS and in a display team, the invitation caused a lot of excitement and I needed to calm myself so this didn't reflect on my horse. For this reason, I along with a few others travelled the evening before and the rest came early on the day. Our display was scheduled for 3.15 pm on the Friday in the Ridings Ring. There was certainly a lot of 'stuff' to take to this event and the car was jam packed full of costumes, hay, muck forks........etc. It took a lot of unpacking once back home.

The team had a briefing early afternoon so we all more or less knew the programme and our individual contributions. This included an introduction, costume display, 'master' class, drill ride, jumping and questions. My contribution was the costume and master class. All the costumes were excellent and ranged from the early 18th to the early 20th century. Mine was made of heavy wool and certainly not designed for sun and a temperature of about 27 degrees, needless to say most of us dispensed with the corsets (such shocking behaviour!) The master class was taught by Lisa Lane who was able to contrast the 2 younger side saddle riders with an experienced rider and myself as an older rider and relative beginner. This showed side saddle as being accessible to all.

The drill ride to music from Queen was lovely to watch and could become future competition for the Household Cavalry. The jumping then contrasted well giving a bit of excitement to the display, and luckily no one fell off. The audience were also given the opportunity to chat and ask questions.

Thanks to Kate and all the team for such a fantastic experience, we all, including the horses, went home tired but happy.

Susan Winterburn (Area19)

Lexi and Mia where absolutely delighted to be invited to participate in the side saddle display at the Great Yorkshire Show.

When we got the email from Kate asking if we would be interested it was a big yes. They girls thought it was a big honour to be asked. They spent the night before cleaning tack and helping their mums clean and plait the pony's. We arrived early so we could soak up the atmosphere, kate had arranged stables for the ponies which was a fantastic idea. We all had a team meeting a couple of hours before the demo, this meant we knew exactly what we would each be doing and in what order.

We all went in the ring together and walked around so the horses could get used to the atmosphere. The ladies on the costumes then went back in the ring and we got to listen to all the backgrounds of the costumes and watch them ride around.

The girls then went in for a lesson with Lisa Lane, they absolutely loved it such positivity from Lisa and it really showed that even little ones can join in. We particularly liked the fact that it was mentioned that you don't need to buy the saddles and habits and in fact hiring is a popular option especially for the children. The girls even got to show off with some jumping Lexi did some little jumps and then Mia went on and jumped with the big horses. Next came the musical display which was fabulous to watch the music and movements got the audience dancing too. The other displays included kate on her horse showing that side saddle is a great second career for many types of horses. The jumping at the end was most definitely fun to watch with lots of crowd encouragement.

Lexi Courtney, Mia Boustead (Area 2)

Please click here for more photos of the Great Yorkshire Display 2021

The SSA advice to Areas is you should adopt a duty of care at Area events and continue to advise the wearing of masks in indoor/enclosed spaces and the maintenance of social distancing. Additionally you should ensure that any specific guidance from venues that you are using is followed. Judges and Instructors should be given discretion on what protocols they may or may not want to follow to ensure their personal protection.

This was a new show organised by Area 14 on 29th May which proved very successful. It was held at the RDA centre at Cheltenham Racecourse, and it was wonderful to have ladies attending from as far away as Cornwall and North Yorkshire. Louisa Harvey donated a trophy 'the Mr Wooster Memorial Challenge Cup' for the champion in memory of her beloved, grey show hunter, Bert. The very worthy champion was Jane Dobinson, riding her lovely grey, Merlin; she's pictured having the trophy presented to her by Jane Montelier from the RDA with Louisa Harvey alongside presenting £75 prize money (sponsored by Day Equestrian Surfaces and Aztec Arenas) and £15 of vouchers (sponsored by Rimell Saddlers). Area 14 hope the show will become a regular feature in the side saddle calendar, and, they also have future plans afoot with the RDA at the Racecourse for next year. Photo by kind permission of Mark Regan Photography

COUNTDOWN – 1 WEEK TO GO – NSSS ENTRIES CLOSE ON 12TH JULY

REMEMBER - No late entries will be taken for classes for which individual riding times are allocated - you must enter all these classes by midnight on 12th July. Entries will be taken for other classes provided they are not full but the £5.00 late entry fee will be added for each class entered.

A former college tutor, distinguished equestrian competitor and BHSI Examiner is continuing to support the next generation of equine students with a £10,000 legacy fund. Clarissa Dawson passed away two years ago after a brave battle with leukaemia and had been a tutor at Moreton Morrell College for more than two decades. She left a legacy fund at the college to support the further development of equine training, which was her passion, and the college group has now purchased two new pieces of equipment with the fund. More than £3,000 has been used to buy two new mechanical horse exercisers for the college, which will be used by Level 3 students to develop rider fitness as part of their riding module, as well as benefitting teaching on other courses too.

Clarissa, who lived near Shipston-on-Stour, was well-known in the equine community, both locally and nationally. She competed with distinction in dressage and her side saddle expertise was sought after at clinics in the UK and abroad. She was National Ladies Side Saddle Champion three times in 1992, 1994 and 1997 – and in November 2019 was posthumously awarded The British Horse Society Exceptional Achievement Award. As recently as November 2018, she was still competing despite undertaking chemotherapy and was placed at Regional Advanced Medium Level on her horse Primiende.

She was a student at Moreton Morrell College and returned to lecture in both Further Education and Higher Education, showing great commitment to educating equine students for more than 20 years. Sue Weatherburn, a lecturer who worked with Clarissa for more than 15 years, says that this is the perfect way to use the legacy fund and that it is a great way for her to continue having a positive impact on young people’s education in the region. Sue said: “I feel very lucky to have worked alongside Clarissa for such a long period of time. She was a great colleague and friend. When Clarissa passed away, I started to look after her dog and she still comes to the college with me every day, just like she did with Clarissa for many years. She taught across a range of courses and was a course tutor from Level 1 all the way up to degree level.To buy this equipment with the legacy fund is a fitting way to remember Clarissa and we know that she would have approved of spending some of the money in this way.”Geoff Dawson, Clarissa ’s brother, added that the family are very proud of her achievements.

Clarissa had her first pony - Amber - at age five and from then on her entire world revolved around horses,” said Geoff.Clarissa was incredibly modest in her achievements,  the kitchen in her house was a testament to her achievements as the walls were filled with literally hundreds of ribbons and rosettes.She loved her position at Moreton Morrell College and she told me on more than one occasion how much she appreciated the help and support the college - and her many friends - were able to give her, especially during the latter stages of her illness.”

Stable bookings for the National Side Saddle Show WILL NOT OPEN until entries open.

PLEASE DO NOT CONTACT BURY FARM TO TRY TO MAKE BOOKINGS UNTIL ENTRIES ARE OPEN.

You will appreciate with the change of date and venue the schedule is having to be revised in order to facilitate working with the new venue layout and facilities.

The schedule will be circulated as soon as is possible and you will be advised of the date that entries and stable bookings open.

THE CLASSICAL & SIR LANCELOT FINALS AT THE 2021 NATIONAL SHOW
Please see Schedule extracts below
regarding the qualifications required for 2021 only

CLASSICAL FINAL
Open to Qualified SSA Adult Members, and to Competitors who, with the same horse/rider combination, qualified for the 2018 and 2019 Classical Final. The name and date of the show must be shown when entering.

SIR LANCELOT FINAL
Open to Qualified SSA Adult Members, and to Competitors who, qualified for the 2018 and 2019 Sir Lancelot Final. The name and date of the show must be shown when entering.

The requirement for members to have won 10 Qualifying Points to enter the 2021 National Equitation Championships has been removed for this year only. All other additional qualifications relating to class eligibility remain the same and can be found on page 16 Section 2 of The Current Side Saddle Association Handbook. Please support your local and Area shows that are able to take place so that we do not lose them for future years.

The Side Saddle Association

Would you like to, or know of somebody who would, take on the task of sourcing THE SHOW'S ADVERTISING, SPONSORSHIP & TRADESTANDS either as an individual or as part of a team The role involves continuous liaison with Potential and existing Supporters/Contributors, The National Show Organiser & Treasurer and continuous maintenance of Excel Databases before, during and after the Show Out of pocket expenses re-imbursed

For further information, please contact: The Show Organiser, Samantha Stephenson
admin@nationalsidesaddleshow.co.uk
07515 832722
www.nationalsidesaddleshow.co.uk

Area 5 invite all SSA Members to their new series of Side Saddle Question Time, this is first of a series and the first session is free.The first session is on Sunday February 28 by Zoom starting at 7.30pm.The subject is, Tip Top Turnout Tips. Area 5 welcome guest panellist Shirley Anderson from Northern Ireland. Shirley has a passion for making her own habits, costumes and re designing original habits to suit the rider. Joining her are Heather Sumner and Maureen James, both experts in any turnout matters. Please send your questions by email to Area 5 Chairman Ginny Oakley Pope (email address can be found in your SSA Handbook) by 12.00 noon on February 26. All those wishing to attend please contact Ginny in the same way. Those wishing to take part will be sent a Zoom invitation. Area 5 very much look forward to hearing from you soon.

Congratulations to all who took part.The highly commended entries from the recent cartoon competition can be seen below:

1. Jennifer Roberts

2. Jane Pryor

3. Belinda Wilkins

Thank you to all who took part in the recent SSA Cartoon Competition and a big thank you to Side Saddle for providing a voucher for the winner. The winner was Belinda Wilkins from Area 8 who captured a tongue in cheek "5 minute call for the Classical Ladies Championship Class". Highly commended went to Jane Pryor (Area 1), Jennifer Roberts (Area 8) and Belinda's second entry. The highly commended cartoons will be posted next week.

We find ourselves back in lockdown again but that may give some of you more chance to enter the SSA's monthly Virtual Equitation competitions which have been kindly sponsored by Henrietta Barton . Members don't need to have a surface to ride on, a marked out arena in a field will do just fine, and there are 2 new 40m arena tests for the Junior Open/Adult Intermediate and Adult Open to ensure everyone can enter regardless of the facilities available to them. Plus there is the Virtual Equitation Points Championship to compete for – points make prizes! The competition is a good way to get practice and valuable feedback to prepare for when our showing life as we know and love it returns to 'normal'.

All the information members need (rules, tips, schedule, entry) can be found at www.justsoequestrianevents.co.uk/whats-on ENTRIES FOR THE NEXT COMPETITON CLOSE AT MIDNIGHT ON 14TH JANUARY

The Arena Eventing Challenge will run from 1st November to 31st March each winter season

PHOTO BY EDWARD DANIELS

• To open up side saddle riding to as many people as possible across as many disciplines as possible.
• To have a stand alone award for Members taking part in Arena Eventing, riding side saddle, points will be awarded for the completion of each event and the winner will be the horse/pony/rider combination with the most points.

For more information on how to enter please go to www.justsoequestrianevents.co.uk/whats-on

ENTRIES CLOSE AT MIDNIGHT ON MONDAY 14TH DECEMBER

Please click here for the latest update from Horse Scotland

The Performance Awards are open to all SSA Members and points are accumulated for the performing standards of the horse/pony, rather than the rider. Points are awarded to a horse/pony, based on its own ability to do well under side saddle, across a wide spectrum of activities. The scheme aims to encourage Members to ride side saddle in all events, not just Equitation (which does not count for points). Bonus points are awarded for competing in events and classes affiliated to other Equestrian and Breed Societies. Points are also gained by competing, even if not placed The Competition runs from 1st January to 31st December in any year and is open to stallions, mares and geldings of four years of age and over, competing within the United Kingdom. Horses competing outside the U.K. qualify for the Overseas Championship only. The awards are presented at the AGM and all entries receive a rosette. Why not enter and take part in next year's awards and show the versatility of your horse/pony whilst competing across a variety of disciplines. More details on the categories and how to enter can be found in the Members' Handbook or on the SSA website – Competitions Page - Performance Points Awards.

Kindly sponsored by 'Side Saddles' – The One Stop Side Saddle Shop

Adult Champion 2018 and 2019 - Fantastic Gift ridden by Jenny Murtagh - Hunt

Junior Champion 2019 and 3rd 2018 - Marshland Aero ridden by Moya Payne

Entries are now open for the first competition – for more information on how to enter please go to www.justsoequestrianevents.co.uk/whats-on

ENTRIES CLOSE AT MIDNIGHT ON MONDAY 14TH DECEMBER

To find out the coronavirus restrictions in your local area, please click here

Following Member feedback in respect of access to 20 x 60 arenas we are pleased to announce alternative 20 x 40 tests have been added to the schedule with immediate effect.

Entries are now open – please go to www.justsoequestrianevents.co.uk/whats-on

Please click here for the updated schedule and Rules plus the new 20 x 40 Arena Tests below

Adult Intermediate and Junior Open On Line Equitation Test
Adult Open On Line Equitation Test

The comments from Members about a 20m x 40m arena test have been duly noted and recognised.

Should the current COVID restrictions be extended beyond the beginning of Dec, we will add new 20m x 40m arena tests to the schedule for the Dec/Jan competition.

Sadly, Council made the decision in conjunction with Side Saddles, the competition sponsor, to cancel the Performance Points for this year. The reasoning behind this being that very few events have been held this year and they are geographically spread, furthermore, Members in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales have had restrictions in place for a longer time than those in England, both these factors mean not everyone has had the opportunity to compete on a level playing field.

The Performance Points are planned to run in 2021, all entries from 2021 will be transferred over but no points accrued during 2020 will carry over, all entrants will start the 2021 year on zero points. If you have paid for 2020 please send an A5 size SAE for your 2021 card to: The S.S.A. Performance Points Secretary, Hillside Farm, Alkham Valley Road, Nr Folkestone, Kent, CT18 7EJ.

If you did not enter the scheme for 2020 please consider entering for 2021, it’s a great way of getting out and about riding side saddle across many different disciplines, more details are in the 2020 Handbook and on the SSA website where you can enter online.

In association with Just So Equestrian Events
www.justsoequestrianevents.co.uk

To Be held for 4 months Across the Winter of 2020/21

INCLUDES A VIRTUAL EQUITATION POINTS CHAMPIONSHIP

PHOTO BY EMMPIX

OPEN TO SSA MEMBERS ONLY

• Entries open on the 15th of each month and close at midnight on the 14th of the following month.
• Entries open for the first part of the series on 15th November and close on 14th December

The Arena Eventing Challenge will run from 1st November to 31st March each winter season

PHOTO BY EDWARD DANIELS

• To open up side saddle riding to as many people as possible across as many disciplines as possible.
• To have a stand alone award for Members taking part in Arena Eventing, riding side saddle, points will be awarded for the completion of each event and the winner will be the horse/pony/rider combination with the most points.

Realising that the 2020 Festival of Horsemanship Side Saddle Area 8 Show was not going to happen, because of Covid 19 lockdown, I decided I would create the show using members' drawings calling it 'The SSA 8 Portrait Show'. It would feature riders from Sussex, Surrey and Kent. Soon the pictures were being sent to me. By making six different rings for classes I was able to put all the amazing drawings into suitable classes. Judges, stewards and spectators were added, plus lorries and other extras. Each time I thought I had finished another member asked to be included and space was found! This took hours and hours to create using Photoshop on my computer. The Portrait Show turned out way better than I could ever have imagined thanks to all who took part with so much detail just using coloured pencils. I really feel it captures a moment in history when everything came to a standstill, habits and costumes hanging unused in cupboards. Particularly special is the rainbow coloured habit in the Fancy Dress Class, honouring the work of the NHS and key workers.

Using the pictures I have also been able to create a picture of just horses and riders which also is a lovely design for tea towels and posters that I am selling, making lovely, original presents. Viewers have fun spotting people and horses they know, each one so carefully drawn! The key is a show catalogue naming all those featured. Profits from sales of these are going towards the National SSA Show 2021. £100 has already been raised. Orders for tea towels, posters and Banners can be made using order form or contact Belinda Wilkins email: festivalofhorsemanshipssa8@gmail.com

Please click here for the Order Form and Design Image (1) and Design Image (2)

Entries are currently OPEN for The Virtual Windsor Autumn Series. The Online Showing is FREE to enter, and for the Autumn Series in September the classes range from traditional Show Horse and Pony classes, to Heavy Horse and Private Driving. (Please note, Class 18 is Side Saddle and includes a Best Costume award). All classes are free to enter, and are entered by uploading an image to the entries portal. Horses do not have to be registered with any breed society to compete. Entries are judged by a panel of renowned judges, presided over by Chief Judge Nigel Hollings, who has been judging at top levels worldwide for nearly four decades.

ENTRIES CLOSE ON 4th SEPTEMBER. Thank you to The Side Saddle Association for posting details relating to the show.

Only 4 days to go to get your entries in.
Open to all current SSA Members, just one entry fee and you can enter as many classes as you like.
In all classes, Competitors may claim points: 10 for 1st, 9 for 2nd, 8 for 3rd, 7 for 4th, 6 for 5th, 5 for 6th and 4 for completing the Class, regardless of placing. A memento will be given to the Adult and to the Junior with the highest points.

This show is open to all current SSA Members, just one entry fee and you can enter as many classes as you like.
If you have any queries please make contact by email to Lottie Parkin: area12treasurer@outlook.com

Please click here for the schedule

Online entries only, please click on the Logo below to make your entries via My Riding Life

The July 5th Pre Champ Show is cancelled.

On August 9th the Area will be running a clinic. Instructor: Vanessa Hood. Location: By kind invitation of Mrs K Byrd at Clifton Park Business Centre, Clifton Road, Stratford on Avon, CV37 8HW.More information and pre booking forms from Area 5 Interim Secretary, Mrs Maureen James. Social distancing measures will be in place. The Sheila Rowland Masters Show due to be held at Moreton Morrell on September 13th has been postponed until 2021.

Thank you to Bettina Keil, one of our Members from Germany for sharing these interesting links

A “half-english”side saddle - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M8NXfp7pLsw&t=3s

A traditional Spanish  “Jamuga” - side saddle https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t3P46Iny5kU&t=11s

In 1997 Sussex Lusitanos took a group of 40 members of the UK Side Saddle Association to visit the Lisbon Show. Five leading UK side saddle riders also went, taking their own saddles. They accepted a 5-day challenge to prepare and perform a short display on borrowed Lusitano horses at the Show. It was an impressive achievement, executed successfully and with style. It also paved the way for their return visit, the following year, to ride with at the 1998 Golega Fair.

The riders pictured below are Amanda James, Paula Keeley, Helen Lawson, Claire Lewis and Sherene Rahmatallah.

Article with kind permission of Sussex Lusitanos

In the light of the present situation with Coronavirus the Side Saddle Association has made the difficult decision to cancel the 2020 National Show. It is incredibly disappointing for everyone who helps to organise and run the show, our sponsors, trade stand holders and for all the competitors, their friends and families.

Please note we have already booked Addington for 2021 The National Show which will take place on 6th, 7th and 8th August 2021.

At The Society of Master Saddlers Presentations on Monday 3rd February 2020 Richard Godden was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award for his outstanding services to side saddle training.

As part of the Gala Display on Saturday 2nd May 2020 there will be a "Chase Me Charlie" jumping competition with a first prize of £100 and the SSA High Jump Trophy; entry numbers will be limited. Click here to Download Information (PDF)

Click here to Download Infromation (PDF)

10 Jan 2020
The British Equestrian Federation responds to EHV-1 outbreak The British Equestrian Federation acknowledges the diagnosis of a case of Equine Herpes Virus (EHV-1) at an equestrian centre in Hampshire on 8 January 2020. The Federation supports the actions of the centre, who have ceased all activity, including cancelling shows and hire bookings, until further notice. The Animal Health Trust has issued advice stating that all horses who have recently visited the centre are immediately isolated for a period of 14 days and that owners seek veterinary advice regarding clinical monitoring and laboratory test clearance. EHV-1 is a contagious disease that can be spread through direct and indirect contact, with the virus surviving in the environment for several weeks. Clinical signs include a high temperature, coughing, nasal discharge, lethargy and loss of appetite. Severely affected animals can display neurological symptoms, and pregnant mares can also suddenly and unexpectantly miscarry their unborn foal.
The BEF recommends that owners remain vigilant for signs of the virus, maintain excellent biosecurity and consult with their vets if they are concerned

You are invited to nominate your "Unsung Hero of the Year"; someone who has gone out of their way to help you in 2019. Maybe someone drove out of their way to rescue you when your horsebox broke down, or gets up early every show morning to travel with you to shows as an unpaid groom?

Please send your nominations, together with a brief synopsis saying why you are nominating this person, and send to info@theshowingcouncil.co.uk

https://www.facebook.com/theshowingcouncil/

Saturday 3rd August 2019
Immediately before the Ride Off
The National Side Saddle Show
Addington Manor Equestrian Centre

Back on 24th July 2016 a side saddle display was given by Area 12 Members to support fundraising for The Free Spirit Horse Memorial Appeal (FSHM). The event was sponsored by Laura Dempsey, a master saddler and maker of side saddles. Fund raising over the last few years culminated in the creation of a life-sized bronze statue acknowledging the horse's unfaltering service to mankind. "Free Spirit" was unveiled at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire on Sunday 19th May 2019.

The Side Saddle Association supported the Bradgate Park Trust at Bradgate Park, Leicestershire, on Saturday 18th May 2019 for their Old John Tower - Special Public Viewing Day.
The aim was to raise awareness of the story of Kitty Cox, wife of the 7th Earl of and nod to her love of horses and links with Old John Tower and especially with the racecourse they had built around the Tower at Hunts Hill.

Old John is the distinctive tower and arch overlooking Bradgate Park and is Leicestershire's most familiar landmark. The Folly stands some 690 feet above sea level and was built in 1784. It has commanding views across Leicestershire and surrounding counties. When a favourite family retainer was killed by a collapsing bonfire during birthday celebrations, the existing prospect tower was adopted as his memorial. The tower is only open as part of the Country Parks guided walks programme.

SSA Members  Leila Marvin, Emma Brown, Laura Elliot and Tanya Guest were joined by former member Kelle King to help promote the Tower being open and to raise awareness of the historical provenance of the racecourse around the Tower and support the launch of Bradgate Park loose leaf tea.

At 10:30 horses and riders made their way into the Park and towards Newtown Linford Car Park to the Conservatory Tearoom Garden for cup of tea and photo shoot to launch the new loose tea range....one is called The Rather Marvellous Kitty Cox.

The riders then hacked on to the Visitor Centre before heading up to the Old John Tower at noon.

After a photoshoot the riders then headed on to the old racecourse where they enjoyed riding around the track with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

PHOTOS BY KIND PERMISSION OF LEICESTER FOREST EAST PHOTOGRAPHERS

Area 19 members Gill Greenwood and Sharon O'Rourke -Kilburn rode in the 500th Kiplingcotes Derby on the Yorkshire Wolds on 21/3/2019 and gained lots of media attention including a pre and post race interview with the BBC.

The race is a most surreal and ephemeral event.  Indeed one of the organisers called it  a 'Brigand' of a race , as when you arrive at this isolated  stretch of road  before 9am , there is nothing there , and at 2 pm again all has gone , except the wooden sign post , saying the  Kiplingcotes Derby 1519 , England’s oldest horse race and many hoof and foot prints .

Rules are few:
The race must be run on the 3rd Thursday in March.
All riders must be weighed in before 11 am.
The race must be run between 12noon and 2 pm.
The winner wins £50 and the second place receives the entry fees of everyone (£4.00) per horse.
Riders must not strike their opponents.
The race must be run every year or it will cease (so on the few occasions, like the snow in 1947, foot and mouth in 2001, a lone rider and their horse have ridden the course).

The weather this year was stunning, blue sky, warm with a little breeze with fantastic views across the Wolds; and you really could believe you were stepping back in time. Once everyone had arrived at the start it was s a fairly quick turnaround, a drop of the flag and the runners were off.

Gill said afterwards “We completed it, we were not last, both horses are safe and sound after the event and were complete heroes/heroines, they looked after us so well and were so well behaved”.

PHOTOS WITH KIND PERMISSION OF DAVID SHARP & ANNE CHAMBERS

The 2019 AGM was kindly hosted by Mrs Helena Hogarth at Hogarths Hotel, Solihull on Sunday 17th March.

After a delicious lunch Area 4 Member Miss Philippa Kemp-Welch gave an excellent presentation
“ Riding 140 miles in the land of the blue skies” which gave a fascinating insight into her experiences during  her recent BHS ride in Mongolia.

Many of you will be aware about 18 months ago Clarissa Dawson, long term Area 5 Member, Instructor and Examiner contacted a very rare form of leukaemia and tragically she lost her fight for life on Saturday 9th March.

Her funeral will be at 11am on Monday 1st April at the Oakley Wood Crematorium (North Chapel), Bishops Tachbrook, Leamington Spa, CV33 9QP, all are welcome. If you intend to attend could you please notify Clarissa's brother Geoff Dawson at gdawson@metronet.co.uk of your intended attendance, it would be a of considerable assistance in helping to assess numbers.

The Area 19 Members (otherwise known as The Three Musketeers)  who were winners in the 2017 Performance Points awarded at the March 2018 AGM had a get together recently along with their newest member Sharon O'Rourke- Kilburn ( aka d'Artagnan ).

Gill Greenwood and Storm were Supreme Performance Champion and Adult, Dressage, Versatility and Age Aside Champion. Izzy and Danny Greenwood scooped Junior Champion and Junior Hunting Champion and Rosie 28 years young and Penny Sarginson took home the Newcomers Champion and 4th overall in the Adult section.

Penny was able to invite the winners to Boynton Hall near Bridlington by kind permission of Mr and Mrs Marriot, to have their photos taken at the amazing house whose origins go back to the time of William the Conqueror.

After the photo opportunity the members finished the day by riding around the estate and coming back over what they now call the snowdrop bridge.

Sharon O'Rourke - Kilburn’s husband took the photos and was incredibly patient with some very needy side saddle ladies (and gent).

Emma Brown gathered together side saddle hunting stalwarts and on foot supporters at the Quorn Opening meet to celebrate the late Roger Philpot's life and his love of hunting. All the riders were immaculately turned out and followed Roger's motto of "Kick On Girls " and in the case of Roger Edmunds "Kick on Boys"!

PHOTO KIND PERMISSION OF NICO MORGAN

With the on foot supporters wearing either flat caps or habits the pre meet get together in the horsebox park was a most sociable event with much reminiscing about Roger. People travelled from far and wide including Berkshire, Wales and Yorkshire with the biggest distance travelled accolade going to Berit Hoffman who flew out of Germany that morning looking resplendent in her habit. Pictured is Berit with Anne Dolbey Jones, Area 6 Chairman.

After joining the "Kick On Girls" at the Quorn Opening Meet on 26 October to celebrate the life of Roger Philpot and looking beautifully turned out and elegant Area 5 Member Jennie Daniels and Tilly the Cob proved their versatility and took part in Arena Eventing at the Dallas Burston Polo Ground on 28 October and won the prize for the best Halloween costume.

PHOTOS KIND PERMISSION OF NICO MORGAN & EDWARD DANIELS

Emma Brown and her side saddle hunting stalwarts will be celebrating Roger Philpot's life by going hunting and following the motto "Kick On Girls " at the Quorn Opening Meet.

There will be bacon butties and tea /coffee in the Horsebox park from 9.15 am and there will be a photographer there to capture the gathering. Please come along and support the event and feel free to wear your habit or a flat cap in memory of Roger.

Further details are available from Emma Brown Tel: 07771 984823 Email: emmacb6969@yahoo.com (Please let Emma know in advance of your attendance to give the caterers an idea of numbers)

The President-Organizer of Europ'Amazone has circulated the message below:

Europ'Amazones cannot be cancelled 2 consecutive years! Preparing the competition for 22 & 23 June 2019, and on the principal that it's better to prevent than to cure, the organizer invites those considering participating to vaccinate their horses against rhino/equine herpes by following the following health protocol - first injection before end of September 2018 ; second injection 1 month later (= end October) and the third injection :  6 months later (i.e. end April 2019) which means they will be immunised in time for the competition. This is not obligatory but is strongly recommended. 

Dear All,

I have been requested by the family of Roger Philpot to make the following announcement.

The forthcoming funeral of Roger Philpot is to be a family affair only.

Originally the family had wanted to honour all Roger's friends in their wish to attend. However, the enormity of numbers coupled with the shock of losing Roger so unexpectedly is proving far too much for an event of this magnitude to be arranged in such a short time scale.

The family have been overwhelmed and taken great comfort in the messages of support that they have received from members of the Side Saddle Association who Roger gave so much of his time to.

There will be a "Celebration of Life" at a later date where the family hope that Roger’s many friends will be able to join together to embrace the life of this truly remarkable man.

May I respectfully ask you to honour the families wishes for privacy at this time.

Any queries please contact me on my email address: ginnyoakley@yahoo.co.uk

With kindest regards,
Ginny
Ginny Oakley Pope SSA Area 5 Chairman

The event planned for 16 & 17 June 2018 at Le Haras National du Pin in France has been cancelled, the next event will be on 15 – 16 June 2019.

IF YOU ARE INTENDING TO COMPETE AT HARAS DU PIN ON 16 & 17 JUNE PLEASE NOTE THE INFORMATION BELOW:
Equine flu vaccination is obligatory in France and passports showing up to date vaccinations must be shown for checking before the horses are unloaded (as on entry forms). Temperature may be taken. There have been cases of rhinopneumonie in the region so vaccination against this is advised, but is not obligatory, for the competition. As it is 7 weeks to the event, if people wish to have this vaccination for their horses they do have time to have both injections done (4 weeks apart).

More information can be found on the following link: https://www.ouest-france.fr/normandie/saint-lo-50000/concours-equestre-saint-lo-un-protocole-contre-l-epidemie-d-herpes-equin-5731415

Area 5 Member Lizzie Harris took part in the Retraining of Racehorses Parade on the opening day of the Cheltenham riding Wild West who had been in training with Jonjo O'Neil.

PHOTO BY SOPHIE PETTIT

DOWNLOAD FULL REPORT & PHOTOS HERE

DOWNLOAD FULL REPORT & PHOTOS HERE

The 43rd Annual General Meeting of The Side Saddle Association was held on Sunday 18th March 2018, at Hogarths Hotel, Dorridge, Solihull by kind permission of Helena Hogarth. 62 intrepid members made it through the inclement weather having travelled far and wide form across the corners of the UK.

DOWNLOAD FULL REPORT & PHOTOS HERE

The Society of Master Saddlers held its annual saddlery competition on Monday the 5th of February 2018, at Saddlers' Hall, London. The side saddle class comprised of 6 entries and the worthy winner was Coralie Chung, an Area 4 Member from Newmarket. Coralie is pictured with her winning saddle and also at the presentation of awards with S.S.A. President, Mr. Roger.Philpot.

Congratulations to Area 5 member, Jane Harper, who won the Ridden Veteran Championship at the Olympia Horse Show riding her own Crimewave.

The Side Saddle Association is committed to ensuring the health, safety and welfare of all those who are affected by the activities of the S.S.A. and continually strives to meet its obligations in terms of horse welfare and rider safety in line with other leading equestrian bodies.

Over the last 30 years Equestrian Science, Technology and Information have been drastically developed and progressed, for example in the interest of horse and rider welfare, safety standards have been improved over the years. It is paramount that the S.S.A. continues to progress forward along with the other equestrian disciplines.

At the October 2017 meeting Council discussed the format of awarding the Adult Rider of the Year title at the National Show. It was decided that the scoring format followed in 2017 would remain the same for 2018, but there would be some changes to the performance immediately prior to the announcement of the winner whereby the top four riders will be invited to showcase their skills following a set programme.

Further discussion will take place at the February 2018 Council Meeting and a shortlist of formats will be drawn up; later in the year all Members will be invited to vote on which format they would like to see implemented to determine the Rider of the Year in 2019 and beyond.

Jana Carney is pictured riding her magical Unicorn 'Jacko' at the Frodsham Christmas Festival.
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The International Side Saddle Show and 13th Polish Championship took place on 7th and 8th October 2017 in Janow Podlaski Arabian Stud, which situated is in east part of Poland. 16 riders competed in different classes. Click here for more information

Gill Greenwood, her son Danny and fellow Area 19 member Penny Sarginson have had a busy summer out and about side saddle. Click here to find out more

The Bit on the Side display team gave their usual entertaining display at the Blenheim Trials. Click here for more information

The Quorn Hunt are holding a Dianas of the Chase Qualifier at their Hunter Trials on 8th October.
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Area 4 has had an active summer of events including displays at Palace House, Newmarket, home of The National Heritage Centre of Horseracing and Sporting Art.

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Areas 11 & 12 joined forces over the weekend of 2nd & 3rd September 2017 to give two excellent displays in the delightful landscape of Chatsworth House, Derbyshire.

Congratulations to the following 2017 Side Saddle Riders of the Year:

As you are aware the Side Saddle Association (S.S.A.) introduced a Social Media Policy in 2017 (see 2017 Handbook page 2) and after some recent events it is felt pertinent to remind Members of the S.S.A.’s expectations in relation to the use of social media.

The S.S.A. recognises the importance of the internet and various social media sites and the role which social media plays in the lives of people, albeit some more than others.  Whilst it is recognised that the S.S.A. cannot and has no desire to control posts made on a Member’s personal page, they can and indeed will, within the confines of the Social Media Policy, react to any post that is deemed to be offensive, defamatory, threatening, unseemly or damaging to the name of the S.S.A. or any of its Members.

As a S.S.A. Member, National Officer, Area Officer, Instructor or Judge, you should not post any information or comments which may be perceived to be derogatory, prejudicial or detrimental to the reputation and interests of the Association or its Members, or that may be attributed as being the opinion of the Association whether this be at Area or National level.

Please be mindful of the spirit of the S.S.A. and conduct your use of social media accordingly.

5th July 2017

Area 19 members have had a fun start to the year – please click here for more information

Manor Grange Stud Show Centre's Annual SSA fundraiser 'A Day of Side Saddle Competition with a Differences held on 15/04/17. Seven pairs competed in the Day with a Difference competition, which spanned dressage, showjumping, barrel racing, Champagne Challenge and a Versatile Horse course. Both team members rode a dressage test and jumped (over poles on the ground for some newer combinations and veteran horses), while each team could play to their strengths and put their most suitable horse up for the remaining sections.

Please click here for more information

The Southdown and Eridge Hunt Inaugural Side Saddle Dash was held at their Point to Point on Sunday 9th April 2017 at Godstone in Surrey. In addition Area 8 Members gave a display which included traditional and historical costumes. The dash was run over a distance of approximately 7 furlongs and the winner was Chloe Gunn from Area 12.

Please click here for more information

Darkly Dreaming Dexter from Area 5 was delighted to win the Side Saddles Performance Points Best Gelding at the S.S.A. AGM and posed with his trophy for his fans. To read more about Dexter please click here.

Members will be saddened to learn of the death of the Association’s Vice President, Valerie Millwood, on 23rd March 2017.

Born into a family of Funeral Directors in London, she was brought up with horses, as the firm specialised in providing horse drawn hearses drawn by black horses with plumes.   Taught and mentored by the late, great Count Robert Orssich, considered to be the finest and most elegant horseman in the show ring, Valerie became very well known producing and showing hacks, cobs, ponies and arabs in the 50s, 60s and 70s. 

Valerie specialised in teaching side saddle when the art was in decline (before the formation of the Association) and produced many displays and musical rides in costume featuring side saddle riders.   She won the Riding School Teams class at the Richmond Horse Show in the mid 50s, all three riding side saddle, she flanked by her two small pupils, the Slater-Hunt sisters.  She once said winning that class probably gave her the greatest pleasure of her showing career.

Valerie was one of the first to join the Association in 1974, and has been involved with it in many ways since then.   She served as Area 8 Chairman for a record 21 years and was well known for running a tight ship, no small detail ever escaped her.   Her Area 8 Christmas lunches and AGMs were always very social occasions, and a great dog lover herself, the dog shows held at her house in aid of the Area were always well attended and the greatest fun for canines and humans.

It was through Valerie that the Association were invited to stage Invitation Showjumping and Concours d’Elegance classes in the main ring at the Windsor Horse Trials, where for many years our Members were able to compete.   In addition, she also persuaded Hickstead to put on a Costume Concours d’ Elegance class and the Horse of the Year Show to re-introduce Ladies Hunters to their programme.

Valerie was a judge on many equestrian panels including Ponies UK, The Arab Horse Society, National Pony Society, and the British Show Hack, Cob & Riding Horse Association (now The British Show Horse Association) of which she was made President in 1998 and on her retirement, a Vice-President.

Valerie was an instructor of the art of side saddle par excellence, the number of successful riders she taught are countless and include several Riders of the Year and Junior Riders of the Year.  She was always very generous with her time and knowledge and is in no small part responsible for setting the standards whereby the Association is held in high regard within the showing world.

The Association sends condolences to her family and to Thea.

MJ

Please click here for full report
Click here for more photos
Click here for Performance Points results
Click here for recipients of The Farriers Fortune S.S.A. Hunting Button

Please click here for more information

The National Equine Forum was held on 9th March 2017 and this year Government officials, vets and equestrian industry leaders shared their knowledge and drove debate on some of today’s most pertinent equestrian matters. In the lively topical slots the impact of Business Rates were assessed, the impact of the growing threats of strangles and Equine Herpes Virus were discussed and the replacement to the Horserace Betting Levy examined. Also hot off the press the Thoroughbred Health Network was formally launched as a UK-wide initiative. In addition the programme included Brexit’s potential impact on the horse industry, the central equine database, tack, bits and welfare, and Changing Lives through Horses.

We are delighted to announce that our President Mrs. Maureen. James was joint runner up in the prestigious Colin Spedding Award.

Sir Colin Spedding was the founding chairman of the NEF and chaired the event for 20 years until shortly before his death in 2012. He ensured that representatives of all areas of the equine sphere were made welcome to the Forum and that topics of general interest and concern could be discussed openly and without rancour. His aim was to allow the equine world to consider and then speak with a coordinated voice on matters of the moment. The award was introduced in 2013, in his memory. 

The award is presented annually to an outstanding and as yet unrecognised individual or organisation that has made an important contribution to the equestrian world. The three nominees for the 2017 award were fire and rescue expert Jim Green, side-saddle authority Maureen James and equine veterinary nurse Bonny Millar. The winner was Jim Green.
Photos by kind permission of The National Equine Forum and Craig Payne Photography.

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The Society of Master Saddlers held its annual saddlery competition on Tuesday the 7th of February 2017, at Saddlers' Hall, London. Class 11 was a Side Saddle made on a new tree or completely refurbished old tree, to include the stirrup leather (no iron) . the criteria was that it must be all leather with a serge panel or Wickham pad and must be the sole work of the entrant. Entries were judged on quality of craftsmanship and suitability for purpose. There were six entries and the top three  placings were as follows: 1st prize Sue Slade, 2nd Helen Reader and 3rd Coralie Chung and the SSA trophy went to Sue Slade. Congratulations to Sue on her win and to the other placed competitors too, all of the top three are Side Saddle Association Members.

Photo Courtesy of Dr Susan Hills

Area 19 Members Gill and Danny Greenwood joined their local hunt just before Christmas for A Christmas Carol Ride. The ride was for 3 hours around the Staintondale country and raised over £400 for the air ambulance.

Photo Courtesy of Herald and Gazette

Area 19 members Gill Greenwood , her son Danny and fellow member Penny Sarginson went to the Boxing Day meet at Malton with the Middleton Hunt.

The social event included a  film show by Belinda Wilkins showing side saddle activities in the area, this year the theme was newcomers, juniors and hunting. In addition Rayna Matthew's gave a talk on the 'Magic of Costume'  which was amazing. Please click here for more information.

Both the Bicester & Whaddon Chase and Southdown & Eridge Point to points are holding Side Saddle Dashes this year. For more information see the Events Diary.

The Side Saddle Association President Mrs Maureen James has been shortlisted as one of the final three for the Sir Colin Spedding Award 2017.

The winner will be announced at the British Equine Forum in London on March 2nd.The Side Saddle Association are very proud that Maureen's achievements over many years have been recognised in this way and wish her luck at the presentation next March.

Please click here for more information.

Area 6 Member and Junior Novice and Young Rider Champion 2015, Seren James, has now achieved fame on the cover of Horse and Hound dated November 24th 2016 www.horseandhound.co.uk. 

Shown astride on her new pony Zebedee, they are taking a hedge when out with the South Pembrokeshire.  Zebedee is clearly aptly named and was bred by Seren’s Grandmother, Val Rees, who is a long standing SSA member.”
 
Seren is pictured right on her way to victory in the Junior Novice and Young Rider Championship. 2015 (Photo courtesy of Emmpix)

Haddon Training is an Ofsted Grade 1 “Outstanding” training provider that deliver 100% work-based Horse Care Apprenticeships at Level 2 and 3. The apprenticeships are fully Government funded educational programmes for 16-23 year olds who meet the eligibility criteria. For employers, Apprenticeships are a great way to train your staff to your standards! Depending on your location, you could be eligible to apply for Government AGE Grant of up to £2,000 to help you employ an Apprentice. For further information, please click here.

The Polish Side Saddle Championships combined with an International Side Saddle Competition took place on the 1st and 2nd of October in Lewada Zakrzów. Side-saddle riding in Poland has been growing in numbers over the last decade, and 24 riders from three countries ( Great Britain, Czech Republic and Poland)  took part in the event. The two-day competition consisted of 16 tests . 

Virginia Bulawa – Dziarmaga  Polish Jumping Champion (left) and Aleksandra Adamczyk Polish Dressage Champion (photo Rozalia Bachula)

Please click here for more information about this event

Sixteen members and guests visited the Museum of the Horse and Sally Mitchell Gallery at Tuxford in Nottinghamshire  on Sunday 9th October 2016.

A private tour of the museum with the founder, Sally Mitchell, was greatly enjoyed by all. The tour was both very informative and interesting and time sped by. At the end of the tour the party moved next door to the Chilli Petals Café  where they enjoyed a sumptuous afternoon tea.

Wendy Tidbold, one of the SSA’s Worldwide Contacts from the Queensland Side Saddle Interest Group has recently featured in an article in the Australian Women’s Weekly titled The Last of Their Kind. The article focuses on Wendy’s work as a saddler. Click here to find out more.

Congratulations to Esther Rostron, the 2016 Side Saddle Rider of the Year who was second in the Ladies Side Saddle Horse of the Year Championship. Esther was riding Seabourne Silent Valley owned by Mr Garry Merton. The class was won by Jayne Ross riding Hello Dolly.

Congratulations to Georgina Steele from Area 8 who won the 2016 Total Impact Ladies Show Horse Championship riding Colbeach Mark of Distinction.

Please click here for results.

The 24th July 2016 saw A side saddle display in support of The Free Spirit Horse Memorial Appeal (FSHM). The event was sponsored by Laura Dempsey, a master saddler and maker of side saddles. The display consisted of three superbly presented horses and their riders:  Rachael Barker, Kirsty Heathcote and Amanda Chatfield with commentary provided by Lottie Parkin.

The team provided a hugely enjoyable and informative display. Also present on the day were Ambassador Tiffany to Miss Lichfield, Councillor David Salter and Peter Armitage from Royal Mail. A cheque for £2,000 was donated by Caldecott Riding School and Laura Evans. Laura wanted to fund raise in memory of a beloved Pony ‘Jack’ from Caldecott riding school who sadly had to be put to sleep earlier this year. Laura completed a sponsored jump and individually raised £250. Laura said ‘Just knowing a horse is life changing, we need to remember their lives’. ‘Horses mean the world to me and need to be remembered’. Many thanks to those who supported the event; we raised a further £1075 towards the FSHM.

For more information about FSHM please click here

Please Click Here for more Information

For many Members, the Side Saddle Rider of the Year Title, achieved by qualifying throughout the year and competing in the relevant classes at the National Side Saddle Show is the ultimate aim and pinnacle of their season.

Congratulations to the following 2016 Side Saddle Riders of the Year:

The Adult Side Saddle Rider of the Year – Esther Rostron riding Mrs J Birkby's Kyano
Reserve Adult Side Saddle Rider of the Year - Lauren Allin riding Mrs Hazel Allin's Ashton Flight
3rd – Carolyn Walters
4th – Chloe Gunn

The Adult Amateur Champion - Esther Rostron

The Horse of the Year - Kyano

The Adult Intermediate Side Saddle Rider of the Year – Amelia Bevan riding her own Rougemont.
Reserve – Laura Gray

The Adult Novice Side Saddle Rider of the Year – Rachael Forkings riding her own Parry Lad
Reserve – Pippa Booth

The Junior Open Side Saddle Rider of the Year – Mary Goodridge riding Ms A Torode's Waverhead Ted
Reserve – Ellie Ironmonger

The Junior Novice & Junior Novice Young Rider Side Saddle Rider of the Year – Violet Barton riding Mrs J Barton's My Last Bob
Reserve   - Harriett Birkby

Please click here to find out more about this event.

You are invited to join us at an Autumn Social Event On: Sunday 9th October 2016 commencing at 1.30pm At: The Museum of The Horse/Sally Mitchell Gallery, Market Place, Tuxford, Nottinghamshire NG22 0LA.

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DOWNLOAD MUSEUM OF HORSE HERE
DOWNLOAD BOOKING FORM HERE

Area 4 were blessed with near perfect weather at their recent annual Summer Show and Garden Party where a surprise presentation was made to the S.S.A. President Mrs. R. N. James.

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Area 5 had an action packed PR programme for the first weekend in June. Friday night, 3rd June, saw a display with six riders and horses/ponies for the newly formed Milton Keynes Riding Club, Saturday saw five different riders  displaying at the Kenilworth Show in two separate displays in the Main Arena and then three riders from the Friday night display were joined by three Members from Area 12, to give a display in the Main Arena at The Rutland County Show and then later in a smaller arena.

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Jane Bird of Area 5 rode her horse Norman Jennings (aka Storm) side saddle in the Veteran Classes at the recent Hertfordshire Show. Storm  came first in his age group and second in the Championship Senior Horse.

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Five Committee Members from Area 12 (Zoe Bateson, Sally McKenna, Mary Tonks, Kerry Harrison and Alex Molesworth St Aubyn) and a friend called Adam! took part in the "Tough Mudder Half" at Belvoir Castle on 14th May 2016 to raise funds for Area 12.

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The German Side Saddle Derby tentatively planned for September 2016 has been postponed to 2017. Further information will follow in due course.

The Side Saddle Association is seeking a Show Affiliation Officer to commence duties on 1st October 2016

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On Saturday 16th April Area 5 held a Judges and Instructors Seminar at Moreton Morrell College in Warwickshire. The focus of the Seminar was an interactive day looking at how the rider can affect the side saddle and how the side saddle affects the horse and the rider depending on its fitting.

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On Saturday 23rd April 2016 Side Saddle Association Members Bruce Langley-McKim (Area12) and Victoria Nicholls (Area 5) took part in the foxhunter section of the new Silver Spur Hunt Race

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Area 4 have had an active start to the 2016 season with a St George’s Day Tea Party to celebrate HM Queen Elizabeth’s 90th Birthday,  a Clinic plus a Teach-In and Qualifier with lots more events planned.

Click here for more Tea Party information - Click here for Area 4 Activities

Morgan Schive from Area 8 and Amy Bryan-Dowell from Area 11,led in the Topham Chase winner Eastlake, ridden by Barry Geraghty on the Thursday of the recent Grand National meeting.

Area 11 was proud to be invited as horse catchers at the three day Grand National Meeting at Aintree culminating with the great race itself on 9th April.

They are left to right Gemma Mullin, Chloe Edgar, Simon Grimble (Chloe's partner), Charlie Allen Amy Bryan-Dowell and Shirley Oultram. Charlie's horse, Harry is 25 and was retired after he had finished his duties for the Grand National.

The 40th AGM was held on Sunday 20th March at Hogarths Hotel, Solihull by kind permission of Mrs Helena Hogarth. 103 Members and friends attended the event comprising of 84 Full Members, 6 Juniors and 13 Visitors with 71 sitting down for lunch. Please click here for more news about the AGM.

For details on the Hunting Button Recipients 2016 please Click here

Area 21 member Robyn Catterall took part in a Performance Hunter Show run by the Kildare Hunt Club. Ten side saddle riders took part in the class. Robyn was 5th riding Ballytoher Sabrina. The course consisted of 12 hunting obstacles including hedges, ditches, walls, wire and gates up to 1m.

Area 5 held their annual "On Foot" Rally on Sunday 7th February 2016. To learn more about this event please click here

Rieko Kikegawa, a Life Member of the Side Saddle Association since 1994 recently took part in a Side Saddle Demonstration to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Niigata racecourse.

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We have available Jute Shopping Bags with the SSA Logo on, great value at £8.00 inc P&P.
The Stirrup/ Kit Bags are still available at £7.20 inc P&P
There are a few Side Saddle International Celebration Weekend DVD's left at a special offer price of &8.50 inc P&P, this is the last chance to  have your own copy of the action packed activities at Aintree as the DVD is a limited edition and no more will be produced. For multiple quantities please contact the Hon. Gen Secretary for P&P prices

All proceeds to the SSA. Click here to Download an Order Form or contact the Hon. General Secretary

The Dianas of the Chase side saddle cross country race was held for the third time on 29th November at Ingarsby Hall, Leicestershire.

The race was won by Millie Stewart-Wood; however the Side Saddle Association was well represented in the field of fourteen who tackled a challenging course of 14 fences across two miles of prime Quorn hunting country.

Four S.S.A. Members finished in the top six and our congratulations go to Pippa Booth (Area 5) who finished 3rd, Beth Jacomb (Area 4) 4th, Laura Elliott (Area 5) 5th and Sarah Byrne (Area 10) 6th. Congratulations to Sarah Byrne who also won the best turned-out rider sponsored by The Old Hunting Habit.

Several Side Saddle Association Members competed in the Ladies Side Saddle Horse of the Year Championship at The Horse of The Year Show with Area 4 Member Amelia Bevan scooping 4th place.

The Side Saddle Association hosted a Saddlers Side Saddle Fitting Training Workshop on Monday 28th September 2015 at Moreton Morrell College and Pittern Hill Stables in Warwickshire.

Please click here for more information.

The Side Saddle Association invite you to a Saddlers Side Saddle Fitting Training Workshop on Monday 28th September 2015 to be held at Moreton Morrell College Moreton Morrell Warwick Warwickshire CV35 9BL (Sat Nav postcode: CV35 9BP)

DOWNLOAD INFORMATION HERE

A presentation was also made to retiring Vice-Chairman Yvonne Huber.

Following lunch a Question & Answer session was held which enabled the Members to ask questions about a wide variety of topics which resulted in an interesting and information exchange.