Carriage drivers from Edinburgh, the Borders and Cumbria converged on Boreland at the weekend for the 2nd of this year’s Sports Driving Challenges. Twenty drivers took part in a variety of tests which are designed to put them on an equal footing, regardless of their abilities, disabilities and age.
The twenty participants took part in three different disciplines at the Chariots of Fire Driving Centre on Saturday and Sunday. Four drivers in wheelchairs and one who is completely blind were supported round the course by staff at the centre. Saturday saw them undertake a form of dressage – called
“Inclusive moves” – which encourages safe driving and develops the driver’s ability to deal with regular carriage driving occurrences. In glorious sunshine, they also tackled ‘the cones’ – a course comprised of a series of narrowing obstacles with points awards for its successful negotiation.
The third and final phase took place on Sunday with several of the participants having to drive during the cloudbursts. “The Obstacles” involves driving as fast as possible through a sequence of lettered gates with higher scores for shorter times.
All competitors successfully completed all three disciplines and were awarded a rosette – Special, Bronze, Silver, Gold – depending on their final score. Four drivers achieved Silver rosettes, nine bronzes were awarded and seven specials.
Thanks from all the competitors who enjoyed the exciting weekend to the judges & stewards and to the organisers, John Nisbet & Amanda Saville. Also to Shaw Farm Estate for the use of their fields.
For more information on the disabled driving charity or any other aspects of carriage driving for those with a disability go to: www.sportsdrivingunlimited.org.uk
