With London International Horse Show just around the corner, running from 18–22 December, the Show recently celebrated a heartwarming day with its Official Charity for 2024, Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA).
Hosted at Park Lane Stables RDA in Teddington, the event gave participants a special opportunity to meet Natasha Baker OBE, the inspiring Para Dressage rider and passionate supporter of RDA. Baker, who has won an extraordinary 10 Paralympic medals over her career – including two bronze medals at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games – shared her remarkable success story with RDA participants. Footage from the day, which gives a glimpse into the vital work that RDA provides and insight into their role as the Official Charity for London International Horse Show can be viewed below.
Through over 400 centres and accredited riding schools nationwide – including Park Lane Stables – RDA reaches over 25,000 disabled children and adults, providing them with valuable therapeutic and educational equestrian experiences. The organisation’s essential work is made possible by generous donations, the dedication of over 13,000 volunteers and coaches, and their good-natured horses.
Being the Official Charity for London International Horse Show this year allows RDA to bring its impactful mission to a wider audience, both before and during the Show. Throughout the five days, RDA will have their own stand in the Shopping Village where visitors will learn more about this all-important charity. RDA will also host multiple spots on the Show’s Live Zone, including a session where sessions when Natasha Baker will talk openly about the role RDA played on her road to gold, and about its life-changing work.
Commenting on the partnership between RDA and London International Horse Show, Michael Bishop, RDA CEO, said: “We are delighted to be London International Horse Show’s Official Charity for 2024, and we are so fortunate to have such an inspiring ambassador in Natasha Baker. We are very grateful to the Show for giving us this platform to highlight RDA’s work and incredible impact, which will help us grow our community of support and raise vital funds.” Visitors are encouraged to support RDA by donating when purchasing tickets, with a portion of all Thursday afternoon performance ticket sales directly benefitting the charity. Through this partnership, London International Horse Show aims to help the RDA expand its community, raise awareness, and gather essential funds to continue its inspiring work
