New Regional Chair for South & West

British Dressage is delighted to announce the appointment of Carrie Payne as the new Regional Chair for the South & West region.

 

Carrie Payne, an active member within the region and former Regional Training Representative, will take up post in January 2024, working alongside current Regional Chair Susie Cumine until the end of the year to ensure a smooth transition.

“It is with great pride that I take on the role of co-chairman the South and West region and I hope I can do both former incumbents, Susie Cumine and Alicia Anderson, proud continuing the great work they have both achieved in the role of chairman,” Carrie told British Dressage.

Carrie is a seasoned competitor, having taken part in affiliated dressage since the early 90s and witnessed the transformation of British Dressage from its conception to its modern form. “I have many proud competition achievements,” explained Carrie, “my most recent being the fulfilling of a dream to train a horse through the levels to Grand Prix.

“But realistically I am in the twilight of my competing years, so I have put my energies into judging and now my new role in the region,” List 5 judge Carrie explained, “I do however remain passionate about training, to understand how best to ride and work through the levels for the wellbeing of the horse, as well of course to improve my scores in the arena!”

As a retired Financial Advisor, Carrie understands the demands on riders who balance busy working, family, and equestrian lives, having fit all ‘her boys’ - equine, canine and husband – around working long hours for her career. “Whilst I miss work, I like to keep myself very busy so am looking forward to the challenges ahead, helping Amanda Rodgers and the rest of the regional committee forge an even stronger link between BD and the various stakeholders, both riding and non-riding members, youth, judges, coaches, venue organisers, stewards and other volunteers.”

Current Chair, Susie Cumine, added” I am delighted that Carrie is taking up the role of South and West Chairman to work with our Development Officer, Mandy, and the excellent South & West Committee. Having previously been a part of the S&W Committee, a S&W team rider, a competitor and now a listed judge, her broad experience will give her a great understanding to help and develop British Dressage in the South & West Region. I wish her the best for her new venture.”

Development Officer for the South & West, Amanda Rodgers, commented: “A new chair comes with mixed emotions; sadness to be losing the existing chair after eight years of dedication to the region, and excitement as we welcome Carrie Payne onto our Regional Committee. Carrie is well known across the region, not only as a true amateur competitor over many years competing up to Grand Prix with her ginger horses, but also as a team rider and latterly a judge. It will be fun having Carrie on board with her commercial and equestrian knowledge and myself and the committee look forward to working with her.”

British Dressage is hugely grateful to the volunteers who contribute so much to all areas of the dressage community. We look forward to welcoming Carrie into the key role of Regional Chair and wish her the best of luck in her new chapter.