Horseytalk.net Special Interview
Simon Reynolds
Meet Simon Reynolds, who for a year was only allowed to ride bareback as he was diagnosed with Perthes disease, which affected his hips.
Black Country Saddles sponsored Simon Reynolds is thriving on success again this season after finishing on a high note at Royal Windsor Horse Show in May when Morrows Marksman (Bentley) topped the open heavyweight cob line-up.
But what is it that has given Simon this appetite for success? Read on to discover some little-known facts about him that have contributed to his magnificent achievements overall.
Simon was born in Worksop. He is now married to Natalie and they have a three-year-old son, Luke.
Natalie and Simon downsized from their previous yard in Leicestershire two years ago, to their new purpose-built yard and house in Threekingham, Lincolnshire. It consists of 12 acres and 10 stables.
The Reynolds have specifically designed a yard that is virtually maintenance-free. Their true feelings come through in this concept, as they are both conscientiously neat and tidy and a smaller place allows for this.
Simon and Natalie are supporters of the groom apprenticeship scheme. They employ Jess King via the scheme and between them manage all the mucking out, riding and administration.
Simon's dad, David, was a professional jockey and then became a horse dealer.
With his other siblings, all the family helped on the yard. They were all exposed to the sales side of the business and often learned the hard way if there was no money left in their pockets.
Simon started riding when he was young but for a year was only allowed to ride bareback as he was diagnosed with Perthes disease, affecting his hips. This meant he had both legs in full plaster for some time, but fortunately his doctor believed riding bareback would strengthen his legs and Simon was keen to give it a go.
Simon was a poor attender at school, spending much of his time on the junior and senior showjumping circuits and on the hunting field instead. When he left school, he went to work for Neil Simpson in the Cotswolds to enhance his hunting knowledge. Whilst there, Neil's wife Jo, taught Simon to holistically care for horses.
Simon always says that his background with horses was completely different to Natalie's, as Natalie grew up with horses as a hobby, but for Simon and his family, it was a way of life. No matter what their backgrounds, they are definitely a team to be reckoned with now.
Simon has some reservations about the future of the sport. He feels there is less focus on the horses and more on the people and this leaves him with an uneasy feel for what is to come. However, he strongly believes in encouraging young riders and horses to have a go, and with a strong passion for what he does, he will certainly continue to invest in the future, wherever possible.
For more information contact Black Country Saddles on 01543 578 243 or visit www.blackcountrysaddles.com