Elite Riding Academy shaping equestrian excellence in the South West

As the South West gears up for equestrian excellence, the esteemed Elite Riding Academy at Bicton College is preparing some of the region’s most accomplished young riders to showcase their skills at the prestigious Devon County Show and Bicton Arena’s International Horse Trials in May.

For over a decade, Bicton College, part of The Cornwall College Group (TCCG), has provided young people the opportunity to be part of the Elite Riding programme. It has a proven track record of shaping riders into confident individuals who can hold their own in a heightened equine environment.

To be eligible for the Elite Riding Academy, applicants must provide sufficient information about their skills, passion and dedication, with just six outstanding individuals selected to embark on a transformative journey, receiving intensive training under the expert guidance of the equine coaches based at Bicton.

Each year, the chosen six have the exclusive opportunity to display their prowess at the prestigious Bicton Arena, and proudly represent the College at Devon County Show’s highly anticipated riding demonstrations each day.

During their time with the Elite Riding Academy, students are encouraged to take part in a number of events, at Bicton Arena, to get used to the feel of a competition horse and how to manage their energy levels. This hands-on approach fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation for equine interaction, equipping learners with invaluable experience for the challenges ahead.

The unique partnership between Bicton Arena and Bicton College, forged two years ago, has provided a platform for students to showcase their talents at this top competition centre which is literally a 5 minutes’ walk from the College.

For Darren Evans, head of Bicton College, the Academy is an inspiring tool, setting standard for equestrian excellence in the South West, he emphasised: “Our Equine and Animal Management team help our students excel and become some of the most accomplished riders in the region, who not only shine in competitions but also embody the values of integrity, dedication and respect that define true horsemanship.”

Bicton Arena Manager, Andrew Fell, supports the Elite Riding Academy and said: “It’s truly inspiring to witness the dedication and passion these young riders bring to their training sessions and competitions. We look forward to watching them grow and take part in our upcoming events, as well as demonstrating their skills at the International Horse Trials.”

To find out more about equestrian courses available at Bicton College, visit bicton.ac.uk