Wednesday, 22 January 2025
In what will be a very special year for the Agria Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials as hosts of the Agria FEI Eventing European Championship (18 – 21 September 2025), the team are delighted to announce that the official charity for this year’s event is the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA).
Enriching lives through horses since 1969, the RDA support over 25,000 disabled children and adults through a variety of activities, including horse riding, carriage driving, and non-ridden equine-assisted experiences including Quiet Corners and Tea with a Pony. As pioneers in the therapeutic use of horses, they lead the way in disability sports and are the UK’s only major charity focused specifically on the health and wellbeing benefits of bringing people and horses together.
RDA CEO, Michael Bishop, shared his excitement about the partnership, “We are delighted to be chosen as the official charity, providing us with the opportunity to showcase RDA’s work and impact during the exciting Agria FEI Eventing European Championship as it returns to the UK, in such a stunning setting. The demand for our services continues to grow. Nearly 1 in 4 of the UK population are disabled with a physical, mental health condition, or long-term illness that impacts their daily life, and despite the many benefits of physical activity and sport, disabled people still face significant barriers when trying to be active. RDA uses the unique connection with horses to provide riding, carriage driving, equestrian sport, equine therapy and non-ridden equine assisted programmes that deliver life changing impact. We are incredibly grateful for this opportunity to build our community of support and raise vital funds, so we can make an even greater impact.”
The RDA’s innovative programmes are made possible by over 13,700 volunteers, 1,700 qualified coaches, 2,800 equines and more than 450 RDA centres. The programmes improve mobility, boost physical health and mental wellbeing, build confidence, and teach new life skills for people of all ages and abilities, including those with physical and learning disabilities, sensory impairments, long-term health conditions, and neurodiversity. With 24% of the UK population classified as disabled, RDA make a lasting impact through the therapeutic power of horses.
“The work that RDA does to provide transformative opportunities for individuals with disabilities through horses is truly inspiring,” adds Agria Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials Event Director, Katrina Midgley. “We are proud to support their mission and look forward to raising awareness and funds for such a worthy cause during this prestigious event.”
The RDA carries out life-changing work and every pound they receive makes a difference to the lives of disabled children and adults all over the UK. There is the opportunity to donate to the RDA through the Box Office when you purchase your tickets here.