Mia’s Journey with RDA: Empowerment, Friendship, and Achievements

Mia, 22, has been a part of the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) for almost 19 years. Her story is one of growth, passion, and determination, where horses and the RDA community have played a pivotal role in shaping her life.

Mia’s journey with RDA began when she was introduced to the program by her physiotherapist. “She suggested that RDA would really help with my hypermobility. After getting in contact with the organisation, I had my first lesson with a sweet grey pony named Star.” Although Mia was supported by a leader and two side walkers during that initial lesson, they often had to remind her to breathe. “That first lesson was when I got the bug majorly”. From that point on, Mia was hooked, finding not just a passion for riding, but a newfound sense of confidence and belonging.

In 2021, Mia’s involvement with RDA took a significant leap forward when she participated in the online Virtus World Championship competition. “It was so fun to do, I ended up coming 1st in one class and 2nd in the other. I felt so proud of myself and the horse I was riding.” It was a moment of triumph that highlighted Mia’s skill, perseverance, and deep connection with the horses she rode.

That same year, Mia received a diagnosis of autism. “It helped me understand myself more and pushed me to do things outside my comfort zone, I even stayed over at the RDA National Championships without my mum and got a job at a café.” This personal growth has been instrumental in Mia’s development, allowing her to take on new challenges and embrace opportunities that used to feel daunting.

One of Mia’s favourite aspects of RDA is the lasting friendships she has made. “Making friends when you have autism is difficult to say the least, but through RDA, I’ve met lifelong friends I will treasure forever.” These connections have given her a sense of community and support that extends beyond the riding arena.

Mia also relishes the chance to learn new skills, such as jumping, which her group has just been signed off for. “Nailing the canter on all the different horses I ride has been so rewarding.”

This year, Mia took another exciting step forward by joining AIM RDA, a newly established group focused on Ability, Independence, and Motivation. With locations at Shrivenham Defence Academy and Lamborn RDA, AIM has opened up even more opportunities for Mia. “I feel so lucky that both locations have let us in and allowed us to use their horses, I ride at Shrivenham, and the horses are amazing. I feel so comfortable and confident on all of them.” Mia also volunteers at the Lamborn RDA on Saturdays, where she finds joy in the independence it offers. “I love it because I feel free.”

As for her future goals, Mia is determined to continue her progress. “I want to learn to jump because it looks so fun, I also want to get stronger in the canter and improve my seat.”

Beyond her riding achievements, Mia has an impressive list of accomplishments. She was featured on The King’s Speech last year, where she showcased her cooking skills. “I’m one of the first riders at AIM.” She has also raised over £800 by selling bracelets to support RDA, demonstrating her commitment to the cause. And in her downtime, Mia is a master brownie maker.

For Mia, RDA is more than riding. It’s about gaining confidence, learning new skills, and making lifelong friendships in a welcoming, inclusive community. Her story is a testament to the impact of the RDA community and how it has helped her reach new heights in both her personal and riding achievements.

As Mia looks to the future, her passion for horses and RDA continues to fuel her aspirations, with new goals on the horizon and the support of her friends and teammates.