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Louise has been riding horses since she was 1 year old; her two lovely sisters gleaning much entertainment from regularily sitting her backwards on ponies and lunging her over jumps.
Since then she has never looked back.
She was very lucky to live close to the yard of Paula Sykes, who for many years was groom to Pat Smythe (you will find her refered to as 'Paul' in many of Pat's books). She became very much Paula's protege as she grew up and rode many ponies for Paula in all disciplines throughout her childhood. She was an active member of South Norfolk Pony Club, taking part in winning teams for dressage, showjumping and eventing.
Paula also encouraged Louise to take up side saddle at which she also excelled, representing the Side Saddle Association as part of their display team; performing at the Horse of the Year Show
Once she left school Louise went to work for the Lawrence David event team in Northamptonshire where she gained invaluable experience, competing in all types of events including 3 day, notably competing at the Windsor 3 day International Event in 1989. Whilst with the Lawrence David team she lived and worked with Sarah Cohen ('Cutty') who has gone on to be part of the British Olympic Squad.
Her obsession with show jumping then took her to work and ride for the late John Pocklington of the Magna Stud. Here she worked alongside Dermot Lennon, who went on to become Show Jumping World Champion on L'Escargot. This gave Louise the opporunity to work with many stallions and young stock, gaining an insight into breeding which she has built on and developed ever since.
Moving back home to Norfolk in 1992, she met Paul in 1993 (the high point of her life up to that point obviously) and after getting married they subsequently bought and developed Wodehouse Farm into the facility it is today.
To be continued... |
