16 Aug 2006 - Goodbye Shandy, the Perfect RDA Pony

We were all very sad to learn this week that Shandy, our beloved palomino cob, has had to be put to sleep. She had had a few health problems over the last twelve months but had always returned to the arena, ready for work again. This time it was not to be.

Shandy first came to Acrecliffe Equestrian Centre form Burley-in-Wharfedale in 1995. She was a strong pony who needed lots of exercise and she soon got it as she proved to be friendly, reliable and adaptable. These were all qualities which made her very suitable for RDA work and it wasn't long before Shandy was teaching lots of people that riding is fun, whatever their age or disability.

Every RDA group needs a strong, reliable, hard-working pony to whom even the most nervous novice can be entrusted. Shandy fitted the bill perfectly. She didn't mind the leading rein, or side-walkers; she didn't mind which way she was mounted or dismounted; she would accept either a saddle or a fleece. (She would also accept any amount of mints, carrots or apples.)

In 2004 the group held a big celebration and parade for her 21st birthday. Shandy herself, ridden by Jose Bosworth, led the parade proudly and all the horses seemed to realize that this was a special occasion. They paraded two by two round the field to music and, all being steady RDA horses, all refrained from 'shaking it all about' during the Hokey Cokey music. Naturally there was a celebration 'carrot cake' and the centre was knee deep in carrots and Polo mints that day.

Shandy will be much missed and always thought of with a great deal of affection by riders and helpers alike. She was a real star.

IF YOU'D LIKE TO SEE MORE PHOTOS OF SHANDY, CLICK ON THE 'PHOTO GALLERY' BUTTON ON THE LEFT.