AIMING HIGH

Horse-loving Bethany Clarke is racing after her equine dreams by joining one of the world’s leading equestrian academies.

The 16-year-old St Christopher’s School student was recently accepted into Hartpury College in Gloucester, UK, renowned for its outstanding provision of equine care, animal science and sports science courses.

She said: “I wanted to go to Hartpury as their facilities will help me pursue my dreams and aspirations. By being a part of this academy makes me believe that I can take horse-riding from just a hobby to a profession.

“My vision is to have a career with horses. I am not sure what exactly I want to do as yet but the courses at the college will surely help me narrow it down.

“The college has exceptional equine facilities such as an indoor championship arena, an aquafit treadmill, cross-country courses, veterinary practice and a therapy centre along with a number of outdoor arenas as well. I am really looking forward to it.”

Another leading young rider from Bahrain, Maxime Moxon, joined the college last year and is said to be enjoying the experience.

Bethany took up the sport at the age of nine and since then she has been riding her chestnut companion Starly at the Shakoora Riding Centre. Bethany’s riding instructor, Samia Al Saffar, has been training her in dressage and jumping.

Ms Al Saffar said: “Bethany is quite a confident rider. She started as a total beginner and she has improved over the years.

“Her horse is not exactly a novice rider’s horse and he can be a bit playful at times but she has shown great confidence in her abilities. She has also participated in horse shows and done really well.

“Bethany has been quite committed to her horse, coming to the stables every day no matter how busy she was at school. We will miss her when she goes.”

Whilst taking part in the Bahrain Royal Equestrian & Endurance Federation (BREEF) competitions at the Police Ground in Budaiya, Bethany was able to jump over 110cm. She ended the competition season at a Junior Three level. She has also taken part in dressage events but her passion is show jumping.

Even with all the competitions and training twice a week, Bethany managed to balance her school work and riding. She said: “I have not had any negative effects in my studies from my horse riding. In fact, horse riding has given me the opportunity to blow off steam after a stressful day!

“I love it as it gives me the ability to be in control of something powerful. Horse-riding is my passion and although on some days Starly may act difficult, or I may not feel 100 per cent, I still enjoy every minute of it.

“No one else in my family rides, however, my mother has sat and watched me since the day I started so she has gained a lot of interest in the sport. My whole family has been very supportive.”

Bethany will be studying for a Horse Management (Equitation) BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma, which will cost around BD6,400-a-year for the course and accommodation.

It’s an investment her proud parents, Colin, 55, a general manager of a company’s freight operation based in Saudi Arabia, and his wife Hazel, 56, believe is worthwhile and well deserved. They also have two sons, Daniel, 19, a university student, and A’level student Nick, 18.

Hazel said: “I feel she has become a very accomplished rider thanks to her instructor. Beth achieved top marks for her Riding GCSE and she is a complete all-rounder.

“Now that she will be in England she will be able to experience cross-country – something that is difficult here in Bahrain. As far as her abilities and how far she will go I am sure she will achieve her dreams.”

Bethany will be leaving to the UK for her summer vacation at the end of July and will enrol on-campus for her first semester at Hartpury in September. The two-year diploma course will then enable her to go on to university for further studies in the equine field and animal behaviour.