Equestrianism is the art and practise of riding and horsemanship. Originally it was an integral part of battlecraft for the Armies of our forebears. The mounted soldiers and officers would start by training and bonding with their horses. In the years that have passed these vital skills were seen for their sporting application and the disciplines morphed into formalised sport. Eventing became the first equestrian sport in the 1912 Olympic Games. It was originally restricted to amateur riders in the military, to test the cavalry on their fitness and suitability. Dressage showcased the discipline required on the parade ground, Cross Country tested bravery, speed and stamina, whilst Show Jumping required accuracy, agility and fast recovery.
The formalising of an Association, to support and grow equestrian sport in the Army, started around 1952, boasting several Olympians in both Eventing and Show Jumping, along with military jockeys who have ridden in the Grand National. With the recent professionalism of equestrian sport, we continue to encourage serving personnel to strengthen their courage and improve fitness through equestrianism.
Riders and horses, across all ranks and cap badges, enjoy the team spirit and encouragement that comes from their Mounted Sports Clubs or Regimental Teams. Recently loan horse schemes, and a new Army League allow those who don’t own a horse the opportunity to compete for their Corps. There are several military competitions a year across a range of disciplines, with riders competing on their own or Military Working Horses. We have Army teams for Show Jumping, Dressage, Eventing, Racing and Show Jumping, who represent the Army at Inter-Service, National and International level throughout the year.
The AEA provides unique opportunities, such as competing at the Royal Windsor Horse Show and London International Horse Show, but our key strength is the ability to turn an individual sport into a team one, where we support and learn from each other.
Chair– Brig Stuart Nasse OBE
Operations Manager – Maj Fran Sykes MBE RA
Treasurer– Maj Carolyn Bates RAVC
Chef d’Equipe– Sgt Sarah Karim AGC (RMP)
MSC Officer – Lt Maise Pestille AGC (ETS)
AGRL Officer – Sgt Amy Crough AGC (SPS)
Media Officer & Sponsorship – 2Lt Brian Leung RLC
Safety Officer – Capt Karl Scholes HCR
Quartermaster – SSgt Shaun Kershaw RHA (DATR)
Racing Officer– Maj Will Kellard RL
Mounted Skill at Arms Officer – CoH James Harvey HCR
Dressage Team Captain – Lt Col Laura Mitchell AGC (RMP)
Eventing Team Captain – Maj Kirstie Deakin-Main RA
Showjumping Team Captain – Maj Zoe Andrew R Signals
