Snip –in celebration of a great RDA Veteran

Rocking Horse RDA, based at Shey Copse Riding Centre, recently awarded Snip a trophy for his service to RDA activities (photo on the news page).  A founder pony since the Group started 11 years ago; Snip’s current claim to fame is that he introduced Sophie Christiansen to the joys of riding when she started taking lessons with Rocking Horse RDA Group.  Sophie subsequently developed her skills with South Bucks and is up for selection for the British Paralympics dressage team for the 2008 Games in Beijing, having been a medal winner in  Athens  in 2004. The picture below is of Sophie, aged 10 on Snip.

Snip, a New Forest pony, was bought by Pat Barnes from Guildford market some 30 years ago when he was a 3 year old.  There were three ponies for sale that were suitable but Pat only had enough money to buy one.  Snip cost £120, a lot of money in those days but like all great ponies, he has turned out to be truly priceless! 

Snip has been in the riding school at Shey Copse Riding Centre (previously the Pat Barnes Riding School) throughout his working life, his small size, even gait and level stride making him an ideal mount for beginners. (The reason for his name is evident from his photograph).He was put out to retirement some years ago but was found to be “tracking” lessons when he was in the field adjacent to the school where teaching was in progress.  Clearly Snip was not ready to take life easy and continues to undertake light duties.

Snip still keeps everyone on their toes.  He is well-known for taking off his bridle with a flick of the ear, giving a nip to the unwary when his girth is being tightened and  escaping from his box, refusing to be caught without a great deal of skill and patience.

When Sophie saw a draft of this article she said “I had forgotten what a great character Snip was!  But these school master ponies were priceless in my development as a rider and I thank Rocking Horse RDA for being a part of that for, without riding, I would not be who I am today”.

Snip – we salute you!  A true veteran and a great character.