Wales Regional Committee

Mike is a retired Army Officer and Police Officer, who has spent the past 35 years as a volunteer within the Army Cadet Force; a youth organisation. He learnt to ride at Sandhurst, and was a member of the Great Britain Team that went to the Modern Pentathlon World Championships in 1973. Mike's been a competing member of BD for 10+ years, so brings a lot of experience to the role. He is however keen to learn more and always welcomes advice from our members!

Helen is another new committee member working alongside Bethan whilst managing Senior activities in North Wales. Having represented Wales at team events for a number of years, Helen is able to offer her knowledge to the whole team selection process. 

Nina is an established BD coach and has long supported team Wales in various roles. She is an experienced Youth Coach and Assessor, and is involved in delivery at the BD Foundation Academies. Nina is currently completing her UKCC Level 4.

Nina believes we never stop learning, and is a big advocate of Continuous Professional Development, both formal and informal. Nina is keen to help promote a positive and supportive coaching community in Wales.

Nina would love to hear from current and aspiring BD coaches and help in any way she can.

Donna is a grade 5 para dressage rider and she is also Chair of United Counties RDA Group in Carmarthen. She is passionate about riding and feels she is really in touch with the para community. Donna's aim is to promote para dressage, make it more accessible and have a closer playing field with senior and youth activities to help our sport become more inclusive and less daunting.

Mary has been actively involved in BD for many years with both her daughters coming through the youth pathways from "BYRDS" as it was known, through Welsh team competitions to representing GB at multiple Internationals both on home soil and abroad. Whichever steps you're ready to take on your BD youth journey, Mary promises to be a reliable point of contact for questions, ideas, concerns and feedback. She is committed to connecting riders across the region and is passionate about helping young people make the most of their BD experience and the incredible opportunities that BD Youth offers.

Maisie brings a wealth of experience and passion to our committee, having been deeply involved with British Dressage for many years including competing at senior team events.

Maisie is not only a dedicated rider but also a proud owner of six horses, giving her a profound understanding of the equestrian world. Her professional background includes three years in the Equestrian Marketing industry, where she has honed her skills in dealing with sponsored riders, creating promotional material, organising prizes, and attending numerous events.

In her new role, Maisie is excited to engage with our members to gather valuable feedback and to forge new partnerships within the region. Her extensive experience and enthusiasm make her a perfect fit for driving our marketing initiatives forward. We look forward to the fresh perspectives and innovative ideas Maisie will bring to our team.

Alison Payne is a List 3 Judge and a BDCC Level 2 Coach based in South Wales. Her love for dressage is matched only by her passion for helping others grow, develop, and achieve their goals. In her professional life, Alison works with organisations and individuals, offering mentoring, coaching, and leadership development. She believes in making the journey enjoyable while maintaining a strong focus on learning.

Andrew is a BD Recognised Coach, BD Youth Coach, and a BHS Senior Dressage Coach based in South Wales. He’s very excited to take on this role, and has a real passion for coaching and developmental training of both horse and rider. Andrew is very much looking forwards to being part of the BD Wales Team and looks forward to meeting our BD members at competitions, camps, training clinics and team events.