Celebrating 50 Years of RDA Carriage Driving
2025 marks the 50th anniversary of RDA Carriage Driving, a discipline that has opened up the world of horses to so many. Mrs Nancy Pethick from the British Driving Society pioneered a trial scheme in 1974, using specially adapted carriages pulled by ponies and even donkeys. In 1975 RDA formally introduced driving, with Sandhurst RDA, West Horsley RDA group and Windsor & Ascot RDA amongst the first to take it up. Today, there are 61 RDA carriage driving groups, and its popularity continues to grow!
Benefits of Carriage Driving
Carriage driving at RDA offers an inclusive and empowering experience for disabled people, providing a unique blend of physical and emotional benefits. It helps improve core strength, coordination, and posture while fostering confidence, independence, and focus. The gentle rhythm of the carriage and the calming presence of horses promote emotional wellbeing, and specially adapted carriages ensure accessibility for all, including wheelchair users. As a social and therapeutic activity, carriage driving encourages connection, achievement, and joy in a safe and supportive environment.
History of RDA Carriage Driving
Carriage driving began to be explored as an alternative to riding. Early trials at RDA centres showed the benefits for those who were unable to ride.
When HRH The Duke of Edinburgh took up carriage driving due to arthritis, he suggested it could offer disabled people “endless pleasure and greater independence than they have at present in the excellent Riding for the Disabled scheme”.
Carriage Driving was introduced into RDA
A handful of RDA Groups began to introduce Carriage Driving into their programmes offered to disabled participants. These groups included; West Horsley RDA group, Sandhurst RDA and Windsor & Ascot RDA.
British Driving Society’s Silver Jubilee Drive took place with over 2,000 members participating in a relay across the country meeting at central check points throughout England. A considerable sum was raised to provide Jubilee carts for the driving section of RDA.
RDA began incorporating carriage driving more regularly in its programmes across the UK, expanding access to the activity and seeing positive responses from participants.
RDA began incorporating carriage driving more regularly in its programmes across the UK, expanding access to the activity and seeing positive responses from participants.
Rags the famous Blue Peter RDA pony, was retrained as a carriage driving pony, expanding the range of ways he could support and assist disabled people.
RDA’s carriage driving programme continued to grow, with more centres offering it as an option for participants.
In 1994 the second Blue Peter Pony Jet, was retrained to drive. He worked at Barrow Farm for the rest of his life both riding and driving.
The RDA launched formalised qualifications and training for carriage driving instructors
Carriage driving competitions, both local and regional, became an important part of the RDA calendar, providing opportunities for participants to showcase their skills and build confidence.
RDA proudly celebrates 25 years of carriage driving, highlighted by a Carriage Driving Conference held at the Wood Green Animal Shelter in Godmanchester. A prestigious Concours d’Elegance competition, with eight qualifying events was also held across the country. Thanks to generous sponsorship, the Fliskmillan Group was awarded a Silver Jubilee Harness, which was graciously presented by Queen Elizabeth.
The first RDA National Championships were held including Carriage Driving, showcasing the growing popularity and competitive aspect of the sport within the organisation.
The first RDA National Championships were held including Carriage Driving, showcasing the growing popularity and competitive aspect of the sport within the organisation.
RDA Carriage Driving celebrated its 40th Anniversary, and Driving Groups around the country each put on their own special event to mark the occasion.
Our 50th Year!
For 50 years, Carriage Driving has been an integral part of RDA’s work—empowering disabled people through increased mobility, improved physical health, and enhanced mental wellbeing. Today, over 61 RDA groups across the UK offer Carriage Driving, making it a vital and inspiring element of the services we provide.
