I’m a BHS APC holding the Stable Manager Certificate, Senior Coach & UKCC3 I’m also a Centre10 Advanced Coach BD Recognised Coach & List 6 Judge. My current horse Lowmoor Neptune is an Irish Sport Horse working at Medium level.
Meet Alison Kenward who you may have seen giving dressage to music demonstrations at the Your Horse Live event last year
How did your horses come into your life?
I can’t remember a time when my attention wasn’t held by horses. I learnt to ride at a Riding School and my first pony Toby made all my dreams come true when I was 9.
How long have you been riding?
I have been riding since I was 2 so a long time!
When and where do you ride?
I ride at home as often as possible.
How did you start riding?
My Mum took me to a local Riding School.
What are you and your horses currently working on?
I am currently undergoing a Rider Rehabilitation programme so I’m working on my balance and simple transitions.
What do you love about riding?
I love horses and nothing compares to spending time in their company. I like the Quote “To Riders, Dressage is what feelings look like.”
What you would you like to be doing in the future and do you have any goals?
Alison riding at the BD Summer Regional Championships 2017
My goal at present is to return to the competition arena.
Have you ever had to deal with nerves in riding?
I think nerves are a positive state to experience. I used to get nervous before jumping and still have a system to channel these emotions.
How do you deal with nerves?
I focus on my breathing and the steps I need to complete to become performance ready/ focussed on my process.
Your Top Tip
Horses thrive on routine and appreciate riders who are clear and consistent.
The Final Furlong – Eight Quick Questions
Who would be your dream horse to ride?
Sula Blue
Who is your equestrian hero?
Mark Todd
If you could have 5 people to dinner who would they be?
Matthew Macfadden Keely Hawes Neil Finn Richard Armitage Bradley Walsh
