It was back in October 2014 when I first met Hoggy. At this time I had just suffered the biggest crisis of confidence imagineable. My horse was out on loan, my stables were empty and I was on the point of giving up horses altogether. I happened to see a flyer advertising lessons on Hoggy. I had always been intrigued by learning on a computerised, mechanical horse and he was only 20 minutes from me so I thought why not give it a go?

Upon arriving at Sparrow I was immediately impressed. My lesson took place in a warm comfortable building, out of the wind and rain. Hoggy proved enlightening. It was nice to sit on something which I knew would not buck rear, spook or spin and responded perfectly to my aids (when I got them right). I was able to work on my own body without worrying about what was happening with the horse. Of course more lessons followed. Fast forward a while and I was looking for another horse.

Tess arrived at Sparrow some time later after an extensive search. Recently over from Ireland, she was not the schoolmaster I had envisaged but was bought because of her outstanding temperament. I can remember saying at that time I would be thrilled if I could get to elementary level.

Not only have I reached my goal, I have surpassed it. Thanks to Nicola, Hoggy and the team at Sparrow we are now working confidently at elementary with our aim being medium by the end of the year. Hoggy you have saved a lifetime passion for horse from being lost forever to a confidence crisis. I cannot thank you enough.