Philippa Sexton Riding

20/04/2026

We often talk about riding from leg to hand, from back to front, and riding to the contact.

However, this does not mean cramming your horse between strong leg and strong rein aids.

Kicking your horse forward while keeping the handbrake on tight will only result in a tense, tight horse, who will most likely drop behind the vertical and hollow his back as he tries to get away from the uncomfortable pressure you’re creating.

Instead, ride your horse forward until you feel him connect to the end of the reins. There should be a light but steady and even weight in your hands, and you should feel as though your horse is rhythmically taking you forward without leaning on the bit or resisting.

Keep your hands and arms soft, elastic, and think of your hands as pushing your horse towards the bit, and not pulling back.

Illustration created and copyrighted by HowToDressage.

15/04/2026

11/04/2026

Let me know if you're interested so I can work out some provisional times.

20/02/2026

Judged combined training at Newton Ferrers Equus this week. This was a University competition riding the school horses. Both horses and riders did really well and kept cheerful throughout the most horrendous weather. I was impressed with the turnout and the standard of riding and the horses were very obliging. It was well organised and good fun. We needed to take the jumping into the indoor school, it was so wet but everyone seemed to enjoy themselves.

17/02/2026

Fun pole clinic this Saturday 21st February at my yard near Westlake.

All sizes, ages welcome. Confidence builder for horse and rider.

Trot, canter and raised poles.

£25 each, starting at 10. Other times available if necessary

If interested message me on whatts app ,07812199176.

12/11/2025

All of our Affiliated Dressage dates are set for next year - straight BD and Quest. See the poster below for details of Affiliated Dressage and some other events for early 2026.
British Dressage - South & West Region

17/08/2025

At Chard today for the area festival. Sat in with Clare today in the Elementary silver. Great experience, learnt lots, thank you Clare.

04/08/2025

Had a really good day judge training at Hartpury with Sara- Jane Lanning Elementary and Medium. A long drive there and back but well worth it. Judged the horse trials at Bicton on Sunday.

10/07/2025

❄ WINTER AREA FESTIVAL QUALIFICATION IS NOW OPEN ❄

The winter qualification period runs between 1 July - 31 December. From Prelim to Advance Medium you need three scores at 63% or above (scores to be from one section) & for Prix St George and Inter I you need two scores at 60% or above (scores to be from one section)!

To find out more visit the BD website and follow Petplan Area Festivals for the latest news!

Please check you eligibility for the season ahead using the BD Handbook 👉 https://www.britishdressage.co.uk/membe.../members-handbook/

The Members' Handbook for 2021 is now online!