On the evening of 21st September, the Sandhurst Trust proudly hosted the Army Equitation Awards dinner at the historic Old College, Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. The event brought together 60 members of the Army Equitation community to commemorate the rich traditions of equitation and equestrian activities in the British Army. 

About Army Equitation

Originating as an integral part of historical battlecraft, equitation is the art and practise of riding and horsemanship. Initially essential for mounted soldiers and officers, these skills evolved into formalised sports between the wars. The Association supporting and nurturing equestrian sports in the Army subsequently took shape in 1952. Its enduring mission has been to inspire serving personnel, fostering courage and resolve through the challenges of equitation.

Event Highlights

The day commenced with masterclasses conducted by renowned event rider Harry Meade at the Brunei Stables, an integral part of the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.

Harry Meade, a prominent figure in British eventing and a silver medallist at the 2014 World Championships in Normandy, shared his expertise to participants During the three captivating classes the areas of dressage, show jumping, and cross country were covered by Harry.

As the sun began to set participants gathered on the steps of Old College for pre-dinner drinks before moving onto the Indian Army Memorial Room (IMAR) for the main event. The IAMR with its historical significance, provided a spectacular setting for the three-course dinner.

The evening concluded with after dining speeches by guest speakers and the presentation of colours, ½ colours and awards for Riders of the year across all ridden disciplines including:

 Dressage, Eventing, Showjumping, Racing and Tent Pegging.

No visit to Old College is complete without the compulsory photo on the Old College Steps.

Corporate Bookings

The Sandhurst Trust facilitate circa 75 corporate events each year that vary in length from large awards dinners through to 1 day SMT away days, 2/3 day symposiums and 2 week leaders events.

Prestige rooms, lecture theatres and break out rooms within the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst are bookable via the Sandhurst Trust for an array of corporate functions including; conferences, board meetings, workshops and private dinners.

Visit our events section on our website to discover the array of facilities on offer here at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst or to discuss booking your next event please contact Debi on events@sandhursttrust.org.

Due to the unique blend of history, security and versality, the Royal Military Academy is in high demand as a venue for events.

To avoid disappointment, we suggest working on the following lead times:

• Large events over 100 – 6 months notice
• Smaller events up to 50 - 3 months notice

Booking for 2024 and 2025 events now.