Parley Equestrian Centre has been running ‘dressage etiquette’ lessons. Pictured here (l-r) Jessica Locke on Fergal, Mel Maclean from the centre, Dawn Bailey on Dylan, instructor Roland Bellido, and Katie Walters on Robbie.
The increasing popularity of equestrianism since the Olympics in 2012 has led to Parley Equestrian Centre running ‘dressage etiquette’ lessons for complete novices.
And three of its students came first, third and sixth in the ‘restricted section of their class’ at their very first competition – out of a field of 16.
Roland Bellido, the Spanish instructor who is working wonders at Parley Equestrian Centre.
Spanish expert Roland Bellido has been instructing the riders in the basics of this increasingly popular discipline and after just three lessons his charges impressed the judges.
Katie Walters riding Robbie came first, Dawn Bailey on Dylan was third and Jessica Locke riding Fergal was sixth.
The open event was held at Parley Equestrian Centre – opposite Bournemouth Airport – which plans further lessons in dressage and other disciplines.
Parley Equestrian Centre is running’dressage etiquette’ lessons under Spanish tutor Roland Bellido.
Mel Maclean, from the centre, said: “Beginners can be a little daunted by dressage etiquette and view it as a little complex, but it really isn’t and we’d like to encourage more people to join in and enjoy this fantastic sport.
“We have more lessons planned and we are soon to hold show jumping lessons as well. In future we plan lessons in all disciplines and for all standards.
“There are lots of ‘happy hackers’ out there who do a bit of recreational riding, but might really enjoy learning some new skills.
“Those riders who have taken part in Roland’s lessons have really enjoyed it. We hold them in the evening so working people can come along.”
Parley Equestrian Centre’s lessons on ‘dressage etiquette’ are proving popular.
British Horse Society instructor Roland, originally from Tenerife, said: “Since the Olympics there has been much more interest in dressage, show jumping and cross country.
“It’s great to see my students picking up rosettes after just a few lessons.”
Parley riders in their first dressage competition did well after just three lessons at the centre. Left is Kaite Walters on Robbie who came first, centre is Dawn Bailey on Dylan who came third and Jessica Locke on Fergal came sixth.
Pic caption: Dressage01: Parley Equestrian Centre has been running ‘dressage etiquette’ lessons. Pictured are (l-r) Jessica Locke on Fergal, Mel Maclean from the centre, Dawn Bailey on Dylan, instructor Roland Bellido, and Katie Walters on Robbie.
Notes to journalists
Parley Equestrian Centre was launched in 2009 and has an excellent reputation amongst dressage riders and show jumpers. The centre is run by equestrian expert Jane Wyatt who has led two horses to victory in the national Horse of the Year competition.
The centre is set within a beautiful 800 acre farming estate next to the River Stour, which is home to the 17th century Parley Manor and to Parley Golf Centre.
Facilities include a competition-level floodlit 60m by 40m Turfloat all-weather arena with mirrors and an irrigation system, British Showjumping jumps and a commentators’ box.
There’s also a 20 metre lunge pen and 47 stables with full or partial livery service available.
The centre is regularly used for both British Showjumping and unaffiliated showjumping competitions.
A second outdoor school acts as a warm up arena ahead of competitions.
There’s also a floodlit lorry park.
For more information contact Ed Baker at Deep South Media on 01202 534487 or 07788392965
