The Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) proudly announced The British Para Driving Team as the recipient of the 2025 Birt Spooner Cup at its Annual Gathering and 56th AGM.
This nomination for the Birt Spooner Award is in recognition of the collective inspiration this group has been in encouraging more disabled people to experience the freedom and therapeutic benefits of driving as well as lasting service to the RDA community over many years. This has been done behind the scenes with individuals, with RDA groups as well as through their stimulating training, displays and competitive performances.
The 2025 squad returned from the World Championships held in Lahden, Germany, with a team bronze medal – a testament to their resilience, dedication, and determination to succeed.
Team Members’ Achievements
- Deb Daniel competed in her 7th World Championship and is the most decorated GB Para Driver to date, having been awarded the FEI Gold Badge of Honour. Deb began driving with the Perry RDA Group, serving as treasurer for over 10 years, and was a pioneer when driving was first introduced to RDA. She continues to inspire as an ambassador and mentor for disabled carriage drivers.
- Jayne Macgarvie competed in her 2nd World Championship, her first as a team member. Living near Aberdeen, she has shown exceptional commitment, dedicating holidays to training and excelling with support from her Garioch RDA group. Jayne is actively involved in supporting and mentoring new drivers and aims to become an RDA coach.
- Emily Ham from Wales, a Grade 1 Para Driver, competed in her 2nd Championships. Having progressed through the British Young Drivers program, she has contributed for many years as a UKCC coach and RDA volunteer, promoting driving as an inclusive sport nationally and internationally.
Chef d’Equipe Julie Camm said:
I am immensely proud of every member of this squad. They are great ambassadors for the sport, and they worked so hard for this result. The physical challenges that they have had to overcome are huge, demonstrating such grit and determination to succeed at the highest level. This journey would not have been possible without an army of supporters, the generosity of sponsors, our wonderful ponies and the initial opportunities provided by organisations such as RDA and the Carriage Driving Sports Group – drivers with disabilities
The Squads’ tireless dedication and influence make them a truly deserving recipient of this year’s Birt Spooner Cup.
To read more about all of this year’s nominees – click here.
