The Hartpury Equine Academy continues to prove why it’s one of the UK’s most respected equestrian development programmes, with students achieving incredible milestones across the disciplines of eventing, show jumping, dressage, and para-dressage—both nationally and internationally.
With applications now open for 2025/26, the academy is encouraging aspiring riders to join a programme that offers elite coaching, world-class facilities, and the chance to follow in the footsteps of students who are already making their mark on the global stage.
2024/25 Highlights
- Daniella Gomez, Hartpury’s current show jumping scholar, has secured a riding position with Christian Ahlmann, one of the world’s most decorated riders, former FEI World No. 1, and an Olympic and World Championship medallist for Germany.
- Riley James (A-levels) will spend the summer on placement with international show jumpers Mark Dorgan and Sally Goding, training her own horse and gaining invaluable experience on the international circuit.
- Sky De Vries (Level 3 Extended Diploma Equine Management) is building a strong international reputation in dressage, competing successfully at Prix St Georges level at events including CDI Tolbert and Addington, with impressive scores both nationally and abroad.
- Mai Smith (BSc (Hons) Equine Performance and Rehabilitation) has made a confident step up to Prix St Georges, winning at the Winter Area Championships and placing at the National Winter Championships, demonstrating her continued rise through the levels.
- Jessica McKenna (BSc (Hons) Equine Business Management), a standout para dressage rider, is celebrating recent double wins at Hartpury and will represent Ireland at the 2025 European Championships, following her successful campaign at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.
- Rebecca Aston (Level 3 Extended Diploma Equine Management), a development dressage rider, has made a breakthrough this season, securing wins at her last two outings and now competing confidently at Elementary and Medium
- Abigail Griffith (BA (Hons) Equine Business Management) continues her upward trajectory in dressage to music, placing in the top three of her last three qualifiers and recently winning her Elementary qualifier at Crofton in May.
- Hartpury show jumpers made a strong impact at the David Broome Event Centre’s April Mixed Show, the Welsh Masters, and international events. Notably, Lauren Hermans (A-levels) stepped up successfully to 35m level, showcasing the strength of Hartpury’s jumping pathway.
One of the academy riders, Mimi Dean, shared:
“I have been in the academy for two years now—it was the sole reason I came to Hartpury and chose to come to college at all. Lizzel has really helped me on my journey as a rider, and I am grateful to have had this opportunity. The equine academy has been the best and most important part of my college experience.”
At Hartpury, riders benefit from:
- Training with elite coaches
- Access to world-class equine and rider performance facilities
- Integrated academic and athlete support
Whether you’re aiming for international selection, professional riding careers, or a future in the equine industry, Hartpury’s Equine Academy offers a proven pathway to success. Apply now for 2025/26 and take your riding to the next level.
Click here to learn more about the Equine Academy.
