Richard's career in the saddle started when he was 6 or 7. The daughter of a friend of the family had a pony which she let him ride. He never had any lessons and picked it up, and more often than not himself, as he went along. He was the grand old age of 10 when he acquired his 1st pony, although initially it was on loan. Memories of this pony include 'uncontrollable galloping' followed by a 'quick exit' to the nearest patch of stinging nettles -ouch! Although he persevered with the riding and managed to finally pay for the pony by saving and working at the weekends for Mrs Marietta Fox-Pitt. Working for Marietta was fantastic, she is extremely knowledgeable and a great teacher. I guess you could say it’s where he earned his 'spurs’. Marietta had some very effective methods of schooling and she never failed to achieve the desired result.

Richard left school knowing that he wanted to work with horses and so it was a logical step to go to Hadlow (Equestrian) College. He studied for 4 years gaining all the requisite diplomas/BHS qualifications and out of term time he also continued working for Marietta. During his final year he had the amazing opportunity of spending the summer working for William Fox-Pitt. Working for William was a bit more hectic than working for Marietta, but it was fantastic to be able to ride and school some of the top event horses in the country, if not the world! William Fox-Pitt is an exceptional rider and demands the highest standards. Fortunately Marietta had schooled Richard well and he was permitted to ride the best of best including Moon Man, Tamarillo and Stunning.

The next obvious step in his career would have been to take the easy option and have gone to work full time for Marietta, or William. However, he decided to broaden his horizons and headed to Cambridgeshire to work at a dealing/hunter yard. It was now a case of putting years of experience and knowledge into practice. He was given ‘free reign’ and the yard owner was very pleased with the results. During this time he was able to satisfy his passion for hunting; hunting with the Cambridge University Drag Hunt and the Fitzwilliam. The yard owner became concerned about losing him (or maybe he was just very benevolent) so he acquired a horse suitable for eventing, Richard's other passion. Things were going really well and he competed at Novice level at venues such as Windsor and Lamberly House. Unfortunately, very soon after he had a bad accident whilst breaking a youngster from Ireland. Ten months off (nightmare) gave him time to think about a career change; he needed a job that involved slightly less danger. Working at a dealing yard meant that he met many yard owners (who'd spotted his skills) and he decided that he would accept the next offer of gainful employment.

He moved to a livery yard near to Oundle and the owner was keen to offer his services of schooling and breaking - what was that about less danger? At least all the horses he now schooled were fairly sensible. He also provided some (private) tuition to several of the livery owners, which was also appreciated.

Richard's dream has always been to have his own yard and compete at 4*, well Burghley may be some way off, but he has been fortunate enough to find a yard to run. The yard is almost perfect (www.willoughbyhouse.co.uk) and he now provides the best livery services in the area. Spotless Vision Eventing aims to make the rest of Richard's dream become reality...