Meet the Team

Meet the Team

Steph is a highly respected figure within the British Eventing community, known for her expertise as an eventing organiser, pony club examiner, and coach. With a deep passion for the sport, she is particularly dedicated to training competition horses and supporting career-driven students who are eager to progress within the equine industry. Over the years, Steph has become a trusted coach for many young event combinations, helping them develop the skills, confidence, and discipline needed to excel in eventing. Her coaching style emphasizes the importance of building strong partnerships between horse and rider, and she is committed to nurturing talent at every level.

In addition to her work with young event riders, Steph is the proud owner of the event horse Urlingford Tom (known as Joey), a horse she has trained and competed with herself. This hands-on experience with her own competition horse allows her to bring valuable insights to her coaching, as she understands firsthand the demands of preparing a horse for the rigors of eventing.

Steph is also the Lead Coach for the Changing Lives Through Horses British Horse Society (BHS) programme, where she has made a significant impact on the lives of young adults. Her work with this programme is driven by her enthusiasm to make a difference by using horses as a vehicle for personal growth, mental well-being, and empowerment. She firmly believes in the transformative power of the equine-human connection and is dedicated to helping young people navigate challenges, build confidence, and develop resilience through their interactions with horses.

In 2022, Steph's exceptional commitment to young people and her innovative coaching techniques were recognized when she was awarded the prestigious Coach of the Year title by the British Horse Society for her work with the Changing Lives Through Horses programme. This recognition is a testament to her unwavering dedication to her students' personal and emotional development. Additionally, Steph was nominated and became one of the top three finalists at the UK Coaching Awards in the Change a Life category, supported by Sport England. This accolade further underscores her impact on the lives of those she works with, particularly in helping them grow both as riders and as individuals.

Steph's approach to coaching extends beyond technical skill development. She is deeply committed to supporting the mental health and well-being of her students, understanding that the equestrian journey is as much about personal development as it is about riding. Through her work, Steph continues to inspire, mentor, and empower the next generation of equestrians, making a lasting difference in their lives both inside and outside of the arena.

Paul has been a key member of the team for many years, bringing extensive experience and deep knowledge of horsemanship. His work spans everything from groundwork and schooling young horses to training competition horses, always with care, patience, and skill.

A successful trainer and competitor, Paul is committed to developing horses at all levels. He has also expanded his expertise through equine-assisted learning and as a coach for the BHS Changing Lives Through Horses programme, supporting individuals in building confidence and skills through working with horses.

Passionate about mentoring the next generation, Paul plays a vital role in guiding young riders and aspiring professionals, making him a respected and inspiring figure in the equine world.

Molly's journey began at the yard as a Pony Club member, where she built a strong foundation in riding, horse care, and competition. Since then, she has grown into a skilled and successful rider across various disciplines.

In recent years, Molly has excelled in competition, training and competing livery horses from green youngsters to experienced BE100 competitors. Her ability to bring out the best in each horse has earned her the trust of many owners. A highlight of her career came in 2021, when she qualified for Badminton Grassroots on Teddy, a livery horse—showcasing her talent and dedication.

Alongside her competitive success, Molly remains focused on her professional development. Her experience, work ethic, and commitment mark her as a promising and accomplished equestrian.

Harriet has been involved with the yard since age 8, starting as a Pony Club member where she built a strong foundation in horsemanship. At 16, she began working at RAC Saddle Club and has gained valuable experience in horse care, riding, and management over five years. She holds a BHS Stage 3 Complete qualification, reflecting her skills and professionalism.

Harriet competes her horse Todd up to BE100 level and has taken part in various Pony Club Championships, demonstrating her dedication and ability. Looking ahead, she plans to develop a youngster through the levels, showing her ambition and commitment to a promising equestrian career.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Equestrians at RAC Saddle Club

The RAC Saddle Club’s alternative provision is significantly enhanced by Lisa Bonfield, a dedicated BHS Changing Lives Coach Mentor for the educational program. Lisa’s journey in the equestrian world began at the Saddle in the early 90s, and after taking time off to raise her four children—three of whom are passionate equestrians competing with their own horses—she returned to the club to share her extensive knowledge and experience.

Lisa is known for her nurturing and inventive approach to training young people, skillfully guiding them along their educational pathway to help them achieve their goals. With her BHS coaching qualifications, she has become an incredible mentor who the kids adore. Her ability to connect with them and inspire them is evident in their enthusiasm for learning and competing.

In addition to her role as a mentor, Lisa serves as a Pony Club coach and team trainer for competitive members, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to developing the next generation of equestrians. Her dedication to fostering talent and passion in young riders is a testament to her love for the sport and her desire to make a positive impact on their lives.

Sophie’s passion for horses began young through Pony Club, where she developed her skills. She bought her first horse, Grace, and became a livery at the yard, gaining hands-on experience in horse care.

Now an apprentice, Sophie has completed BHS Stage 2 and is working toward Stage 3, while also pursuing an NVQ Level 2 in Equine Grooming with Keits Training. Her dedication and growth make her a promising and committed member of the team.

Poppie is an apprentice at RAC Saddle Club with a long history at the yard, starting as a Pony Club member. She gained experience by loaning yard ponies and competing in unaffiliated events.

Having completed BHS Stage 2, she’s now working toward Stage 3 and pursuing an NVQ Level 2 in Equine Grooming through Keits. Poppie’s dedication to her training and hands-on learning marks her as a promising equine professional.

Jess is currently an apprentice at the club, undertaking her training with Keits Training Provider. Prior to joining the team, she gained valuable experience working as Saturday Staff and riding with the RAC Saddle Club, where she developed a strong foundation in equine care and riding skills. Jess has successfully completed Stage 1 of her training, demonstrating her commitment and ability in the equine industry. She is now focused on progressing towards her NVQ Level 2 qualification, as well as working through Stage 2 of her training. Jess’s hands-on experience, combined with her ongoing learning, makes her a dedicated and promising apprentice with a bright future in the field.

Millie is an apprentice at the club with Keits Training Provider. Outside of her apprenticeship, Millie has the experience of caring for and riding her own pony, which has helped deepen her practical knowledge of equine care. She has successfully completed Stage 1 of her training and is now focused on advancing her skills as she works towards both her NVQ Level 2 and Stage 2 qualifications. Millie’s passion for horses and hands-on experience make her a dedicated and driven member of the team at Bovington.

Billy is currently a yard apprentice with Keits Training Provider. Before joining the team at Bovington, Billy was based at the Fortune Centre, where he gained valuable experience working with horses and learning the fundamentals of equine care. Since transitioning to his apprenticeship here, Billy has successfully completed Stage 1 of his training, showcasing his commitment to learning and developing his skills in the industry. He is now focused on progressing towards his NVQ Level 2 qualification and working through Stage 2 of his training. With his solid background and ongoing dedication to his professional development, Billy is well on his way to building a successful career in the equine industry.