UK trip is a tantalising hurdle

Horse riders in the Cayman Islands should be leaping over more hurdles this year. 

One of the local equestrian establishments has its sights set on British glory. Cayman Riding School Instructor Tracey Surrey states the plan is to get youngsters riding in the UK. 

“This is already looking like a very busy year for us,” Surrey said. “We have some new horses in training which is very exciting as it means our riders will be able to work at a much higher level. 

“We are holding more shows throughout the year and all children will continue to work towards their British Pony Club and British Horse Society qualifications. I’m in the process of planning a trip back to the UK for the summer and to the American Eventing Championships in September. 

“It’s hard work and never ending – but having been a riding instructor for over 30 years I have to say it’s my passion – I absolutely love it. The horses are fit and healthy, the children have so much fun, stay focused and out of trouble – what more can we really ask for?” 

Surrey leads a growing stable of young riders out of Hirst Road in Savannah. Among the notable talents are Hannah Fowler, Meegan Slattery and Amara Thompson. Surrey has added confidence in her youngsters these days after the school’s third annual horse show over the holidays attracted 64 competitors. Fowler, on her horse Honeycomb, was the reserve show champion with stellar showings seen from Michelle Boucher on her horse Sarah and 6-year-old Zahra Powell. 

Surrey states it was a great competition. 

“It was a fantastic day – we had so many spectators just ‘pop’ in to see what was going on. The kids rode brilliantly, which meant most spectators then stayed for the whole day. We just have so much fun. There is always a very strong competitive atmosphere when we are competing – we have several smaller shows throughout the year.  

“Some of the more experienced riders have competed overseas but our Christmas show is an event we put on so all our riders can compete, regardless of how experienced they are or how long they have been riding. there is something for everyone. 

“It’s a long day, most of the riders are at the stables around 7am and most of us are still there cleaning up 12 hours later. But so long as everyone feels they have tried their best and are still laughing at the end of the day, then we have accomplished our goals.”