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30/09/2026 by Jennifer Kidd
Introducing Coach Helen, a volunteer whose skills, experience and commitment have become a cornerstone of our coaching team.
Helen joined Equi‑Power in 2022 after moving to the area with her family. Starting out by supporting sessions on Mondays and Fridays, it quickly became clear that she wanted to contribute even more. With decades of equestrian knowledge behind her, she moved through the RDA coaching pathway with ease and stepped up to lead our Friday sessions when long‑standing coach Cristina Costanza returned home to Italy in 2024.
Like all the fantastic coaches on our team, Helen brings a lot to her role with Equi‑Power:
32 years as a veterinary nurse
30+ years as a qualified British Horse Society Advanced Instructor
certified Equine Sports Massage Therapist
experience coaching and judging dressage
years managing a busy equestrian yard
This blend of professional expertise and hands‑on equestrian experience makes Helen an invaluable asset to our group. And she shares her knowledge generously, whether she’s supporting riders in the arena, guiding volunteers, or ensuring our horses receive the best possible care.
One of Helen’s motivations for becoming an RDA coach was simple: “I wanted to support our competitive riders to get out and compete.” Under her guidance, riders have taken part in dressage and countryside challenge at in-house shows and regional qualifiers, many of them achieving fantastic results. A standout moment came in 2025, when three of Helen’s riders competed at the RDA National Championships in Hartpury and held their own among participants from across the UK.
Helen’s coaching philosophy is based on partnership, welfare and confidence. She loves seeing riders discover what they’re capable of:
“I love watching our independent riders progress, seeing the joy they get from achieving something they didn’t think they could. The moment when they realise they got the horse to go the way they wanted.”
As many of Helen’s riders know, “kind hands” are especially important to her, as is ensuring our horses enjoy their work and fostering a true connection between horse and rider. Her passion for horse welfare shines through, creating an environment where both horses and participants can thrive. Helen also speaks warmly of the volunteers she works alongside, describing them as “a lovely bunch” who truly “make a session”.
We feel very fortunate to have Helen as part of our coaching team. Her dedication, expertise and genuine care enrich every session, helping our riders grow in skill and confidence.
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