An exciting evening for all

Gaddesden Place Riding for the Disabled recently hosted its first ever Corporate Networking event and some 50 businesses and individuals supported the evening.

The weather was kind and during two hours, local businesses including Rayden Solicitors, The Diamond Trust, Waste Environmental Systems, Squire Estates and Machins Solicitors enjoyed Champagne and canapés as they watched young disabled riders display their skills on the Gaddesden Place ponies.

Plenty of entertainment

Our Chair, Margaret Keith, talked to the assembled guests about the physical, psychological and social benefits of disabled children and adults riding and being with ponies. 

Eleven-year-old Eden Hayes performed a dressage test on 24yo Bramble, in front of an enthralled audience.

There was the opportunity for guests to ride our riding simulator, “Champion,” and in between all the activities, local Wagyu beef burgers sustained a very engaged audience.

Local MP and former Disabilities Minister, Sir Mike Penning, gave an impassioned speech urging businesses to get involved financially in supporting the charity.

Equally passionate was Paralympic dressage rider, Tamsin Addison, who talked about her battle against bone cancer and how she overcame it to ride internationally for team Ireland at the Tokyo Olympics in 2020.

Some important thank yous

The evening was co-sponsored by BME AV Ltd, a local audio-visual company who supplied the sound and lighting and Solario Racing LLP, a racehorse syndication company, who provided the Champagne and food.

Simon Double, who heads up Solario Racing, is a Trustee and Vice-Chair of the charity and came up with the idea of launching the Corporate Networking Partnerships.

“Our aim is to make local business community aware of the great work which goes on here. It costs in the region of £120,000 per year to run the centre and income from riders would only account for about a third of that. So, we rely on grants and fund-raising but we do not have any paid fund-raisers. It’s all done by our fabulous volunteers. Hopefully, this evening will inspire companies to get involved and sponsor a pony for just £30 a month. They’ll not only know they’re supporting a really good cause but they can enjoy Champagne networking events during the course of the year!

“I am delighted with how the launch went. Feedback has been so, so positive and one company, Barnard and Webb solicitors, even signed up on the night! To cap it all, Tamsin Addison has kindly agreed to become an Ambassador for Gaddesden Place RDA. It’s been a great week.”

A huge thank you to riders, staff, volunteers and especially Karen Gosen, who helped make the event such a success!

Companies or individuals who wish to become corporate sponsors can contact by contacting Simon Double on 01442 877 597 or by emailing him at info@solarioracing.com.