Horse and his groom awarded special training

Blue Cross horse Ryan and his riding groom Annalisa Burge have been selected by a leading dressage training group to participate in their prestigious dressage training programme during 2008.

This is an exciting opportunity for both horse and rider to gain high quality training and experience within the competition circuit.

Blue Cross Ryan, a handsome, seven-year-old Irish Sport Horse, was signed over to the charity a year ago, as his owner was no longer in a position to care for him.  On arrival at the Burford Centre, Ryan needed six months of box rest to recover from a flexor tendon injury, leaving his future as a rideable horse uncertain

Fortunately, after Ryan had completed his box rest, on veterinary recommendation he was gradually brought back into work. The nature of Blue Cross Ryan`s tendon injury necessitates a stay at the Burford Centre until he has remained fully fit and sound for a significant length of time.

Annalisa, his allocated rider, has been developing his flatwork and has introduced him to some local dressage competitions as a part of his rehabilitation programme.  The pair demonstrated talent and ability and were recently spotted by local Dressage U21s UK organiser Carol Hogg.

Training with the team

Dressage U21s UK Squads train at the Unicorn Equestrian Trust at Stow on the Wold. Whilst Blue Cross Ryan will not be eligible to travel with the Squads to any Friendly International competitions, he will be a part of the Squad training programme and will be able to participate in the monthly training regularly.

Carol explains Blue Cross Ryan is a super ambassador for the excellent work carried out by The Blue Cross. "He generates plenty of attention when he is out and about on the show circuit as he is a good looking and big moving young horse with so much potential. It is lovely to be able to help the charity by providing some additional training for Ryan and Annalisa this year. By joining regular Dressage U21s UK Squad training sessions, Annalisa can continue to build on Ryan`s experience, which will help to secure him a good home when he is ready."

10 June 2008