About Blackdown Mendip Riding Club 

Mike Edwards

Undergoing an almost mid-life crisis I took up riding and discovered I rather liked it. I enjoy bonding with my horses whether simply hacking out or taking part in lessons or even competing. Even though I frequently had (and still have) unscheduled dismounts I was not put off and under the guidance of instructors and support from friends in the Club my riding has steadily improved. I joined Blackdown Mendip some while ago now (before I had grey hair) and found it to be welcoming, encouraging and, most importantly, friendly. I discovered that it was about just giving it a go and not to worry if I made a complete fool of myself, nobody stood in judgement and we all laughed together. Now, as part of a relatively inexperienced, but enthusiastic committee I am pleased to see that ethos being continued. And I say to members “come on and have a go” at any or all disciplines, join in and have some fun and in turn the club will “help you to become the best that you can be”.

Sarah Barnes

I joined Blackdown Mendip Riding Club 15 years ago, when I got my first horse at the grand old age of 42 ! The Club was perfect for me as it gave me the opportunity to train without the pressure of having to be competitive, and this is still relevant today. As well as riding Club lessons I enjoy hacking and the occasional dressage competition. I joined the Committee as Treasurer in 2023, so I am the person chasing you for lesson payments !

Debi Goessens

I’ve had horses since my early teens, competing for years but now enjoying a quieter horsey life hacking and having lessons with our amazing instructors

I volunteered to join the committee as I loved the friendly, supportive environment I found when having lessons with the club and wanted to part of the team driving that ethos. I have been Club Secretary since 2023 with responsibility for writing the newsletters, producing minutes, helping to organise events and supporting the other committee members as needed

Claire Scoble

I grew up riding show ponies until my late teens. Kept my eye in but didn’t ride much until the kids ponies were big enough to get on! I ended up exercising, schooling & generally doing all the dirty work! The boys enjoyed many wonderful years in Pony Club and competing supported by a host of volunteer helpers! The boys (not kids any more!) stopped riding but I carried on hacking and having fun at Riding Club. Joining the Committee is for me an opportunity to give back a little for all the years people put in huge amounts of time and effort running Pony Club and the hundreds of un-affiliated events we attended. I’m often helping out at events run by Mendip Plains Equestrian so hope to see some BMRC members out there having a go!

Pip Page

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Dawn Warford

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