From 11th to 13th July 2025, the RDA National Championships took place at Hartpury University & College — the UK’s largest and most inclusive equestrian event for disabled riders, drivers, and vaulters. Over three unforgettable days, hundreds of participants, volunteers, families, and supporters gathered to celebrate the remarkable journeys made possible through the power of horses. This year, the Championships were livestreamed on Facebook, YouTube, and Horse & Country, with expert commentary from Lauren O’Hagen and Spencer Sturmey. Their insights and enthusiasm helped bring the excitement of the event to life for thousands of spectators watching from home.
Inspiring Competition and Community Spirit
The Championships showcased exceptional talent across Dressage, Show Jumping, Vaulting, Performance Showing, Art and Crafts, Horse Care and Knowledge, Best Turned Out, Countryside Challenge, Endurance, and Carriage Driving. Each participant and driver demonstrated incredible determination, skill, and passion, creating moments of triumph and joy. This event is far more than a competition — it’s a celebration of achievement, friendship, and the strength of the RDA community.
Adding to the excitement, there were surprise visits from equestrian favourites This Esme, Olympic eventer Tom McEwen, international para dressage rider Mari Durward-Akhurst, and actor Joe Ashman. Their visits brought huge smiles, selfies, and words of encouragement that made the weekend even more special for participants and supporters.
50 Years of Carriage Driving
A highlight of the weekend was a special demonstration on Friday, by Deborah Daniel, a highly respected international para carriage driver, celebrating 50 years of Carriage Driving within RDA. This remarkable discipline has opened the world of horses to countless disabled participants, offering new opportunities for connection, independence, and achievement. The demonstration paid tribute to the rich history and ongoing growth of this unique part of the RDA family.
Alongside the demonstration, RDA groups also took part in a Carriage Driving competition, showcasing the skill, dedication, and joy that define this unique part of the RDA community. The event paid tribute to the rich history — and exciting future — of Carriage Driving within RDA.
Spotlight on Elliot & Khianna
We cheered on every competitor throughout the Championships, including Elliot and Khianna. Their journeys are shining examples of what RDA stands for — freedom, confidence, and joy. Stories like theirs inspire us all and highlight the transformative power of horses in building independence and happiness.
“The RDA boosted him enormously, Elliot was born with club feet, so he finds walking quite difficult. However when he gets on a pony, the pony is doing all that physical work for him, so he can just get out and enjoy it. It’s been massive for Elliot. Just seeing that smile on his face and getting the opportunity to get out there and take a rosette back to Murfield RDA melted my heart, it was an amazing thing to see.” Elliot’s mum
“I wouldn’t be here today of the RDA wasn’t formed, and yes the rest is history! You can accomplish things and get rosettes. I’ve picked up a lot of rosettes, you could fill a wall honestly! Of course, thanks to the RDA that made this so that disabled people can actually be in horse riding.” Elliot
“RDA means a lot to me. I didn’t start riding before I lost my sight, so me figuring out how to cope when I was blind and all that. I was just not really happy, mentally and then I found the RDA. And every week it’s just a little escape, not just with the horses but with the volunteers as well. It’s changed my life in a really big way, mine and my family’s life.” Khianna
Watch Elliot’s and Khianna’s journey below.
Event by the Numbers
- 155 Classes
- 105 Competing Groups
- 723 Entries
- 3 Days
- 10 Disciplines Represented: Dressage, Show Jumping, Vaulting, Performance Showing, Art and Crafts, Horse Care and Knowledge, Best Turned Out, Countryside Challenge, Endurance, and Carriage Driving.
These figures reflect the incredible scale and spirit of the Championships and the community that makes it all possible.
Family Fun and Lasting Memories
Beyond the competition, the event buzzed with family-friendly activities, games, and opportunities to meet the horses and volunteers who make RDA so special. It was a weekend filled with laughter, connection, and memories that will last a lifetime.
This extraordinary event wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of our volunteers, supporters, donors, and families. Your ongoing belief in RDA’s mission creates opportunities, nurtures confidence, and empowers disabled people across the UK.
Thank you for being part of the RDA community. Together, we celebrate achievement, inclusion, and the incredible spirit that makes RDA truly special.
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