The Founder of the Park Lane Stables in Teddington, Natalie O'Rourke has announced today, 6 November, that she is the winner of The Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) 2024 Birt Spooner Cup at its 55th Anniversary Annual General Meeting.

The award recognises her outstanding dedication to enhancing the lives of disabled individuals through equestrian activities.

It recognises O'Rourke as a National Coach Developer and County Coach as well as playing a key role in training coaches across the UK.

RDA said: "As a National Coach Developer and County Coach, Natalie has been instrumental in training coaches across the UK, enriching the lives of countless individuals.

"Her remarkable leadership at Park Lane Stables ensured its future through a successful £1.3 million fundraising campaign in 2021."

Speaking about her win, O'Rourke said: "I'm totally humbled to be the recipient of The Birt Spooner award, there are so many incredible people in RDA I cannot believe that I won. I am so proud to be part of the RDA, and every day is a real privilege.

I was genuinely shocked to be nominated so when I won, I was flabbergasted.

"I will endeavour to continue spreading the message of RDA far and wide and bringing horses in to as many people's lives as possible."

advertisement

In recognition of her extraordinary contributions, O'Rourke was previously awarded an MBE and authored the book Only Heroes and Horses, sharing her journey in promoting equestrian therapy.