Writing about oneself is a formidable task for anyone.  I was asked to do this by my publishers J. A. Allen of London in 1995 and the result was The Classical Rider two years later - a book I never believed anyone would buy, let alone gain me an award.   Yet, it was warmly reviewed all over the globe, provoking more letters and confidences than one ever dreamed possible. People completely unknown to me still write to say how much courage it has given them, identifying as they have with some of the situations described.  I feel humbled when people speak of inspiration, but maybe it just shows anyone can make a silk purse out of sow’s ear!

The main story deals with my personal journey with horses, from early childhood through that vital learning time spent in Portugal (1969 – 1979) and thence to three decades of intense teaching, lecturing and judging all over the world. It has to be said that every horse and every experience has taught me something, and I am still learning. In fact I firmly believe that teaching leads to a better understanding of one’s own riding and learning.  It is therefore a great pity when a talented rider rejects teaching, since according to a psychologist friend of mine; teaching stimulates both sides of your brain and greatly heightens perception, cognitive powers and self awareness.

One of the main reasons I launched The Classical Riding Club was to encourage other teachers and trainers, especially those who for reasons beyond their control, had often remained undiscovered.  I knew there were many out there who should have been recognised, but who – perhaps through their dislike of the staged examination system – had remained unknown to the very people they might have helped.  I like to think CRC has re-addressed the balance, even although we cannot officially approve anybody.  What we can do is support, encourage and help teachers and trainers to follow their own star.  Also, not to be afraid to swim against the flow when that is in the best interests of their pupils both equine and human. 

As regards my own qualifications, I enjoyed a traditional background of horsemanship, first with the Linlithgow & Stirlingshire Branch of the Pony Club and later as a keen amateur competitor.  I went to Portugal in 1969 and lived there for 10 years studying under my late husband Major Henry, the Lord, Loch - ex cavalry instructor (Weedon Saumur and Spanish Riding School trained).  On return to the UK we ran the Lusitano Stud and Equitation Centre, Suffolk and in 1996 I returned to my home in Scotland to teach private students from all over the world.  I am a Supporting National Trainer for the ABRS Jeffress Scholarship Trust in this country and an accredited Instructor of Portugal (the only British person to have aquired this qualification).

Please see the following pages for Sylvia's Biography.