Introducing RB Team Member Theo Charnley. Theo is an 11 year old from Shropshire who regularly competes his pony RSPCA George in British Dressage. Theo only started riding 3 years ago but in this time has been hugely successful, he has progressed up the Dressage ranks and representing British Dressage Youth Squad, then winning 9 national championships, as well as being the youngest rider to win the "BD Youth Rider of the Year" Award. His goals for 2024 is to represent England at the Youth Home Nations in the Summer.

Where are you based?

On the Shropshire boarder

 

When did you start riding?

Aged 8, 3 years ago

 

What Discipline do you do?

British Dressage

 

Top Horse?

The one and only RSPCA George of course

 

What is your favourite snack?

I’m 11 – I eat my weight in snacks daily! Whilst out competing, I choose our venues purely on the café – those with the best chips win every time!

 

What are your goals for the future?

This year we have a lot going one with Area Festivals, Trailblazers, The Carnival of Dressage, Regionals and so on. Our main goal though is to be selected for the BD Youth Inter-regional and Home Nations Squads!

 

Any Top Tips?

We have learnt to trust each other and our own thoughts. There are a lot of opinions out there, that can confuse the best of riders. Trusting your gut, staying kind to your pony, staying the course when things get tricky and building a partnership goes a long way. We have a saying – those who work the hardest always seem to have the most luck in competition.

 

What are your rituals?

I don’t really have rituals, but I do have 3 main passions – Dressage, Playing the Flute and Skiing. Every evening is either filled with Dressage training, band practice, playing in concerts or skiing. Life is always very busy!

 

What is your favourite RB product?

George being a typical pony loves the treat packs of course! His Feed regime changes throughout the year. Over winter and spring George is fed on Forage ‘n’ Fibre when we need to keep an eye on his weigh. Come championship season however, we add in Condition and Performance, Sumo and Re-Hydrate as required to keep his condition through a busy period.