I have almost been with Dutch Dressage since it opened in Hitcham.   I came to Okke based on a recommendation (having already met him) because I had been given an ex-racehorse who raced until he was 10 but was untrained as a riding horse – quite sharp and green.  I had managed to do quite a lot of work with him until I had to have two hip operations and 2 years out.    Not an easy horse and one that tends to get quite stressed and tense when unhappy.   I took him to Dutch Dressage in order to give him professional training and a life of routine so we could bring him on for me to be able to compete on my recovery.   I cannot thank Okke and his parents enough for all they have done for me and their encouragement when I found riding really difficult.   Their thoughtfulness also in providing Punjabi with a stable in which he is happy so that he can see what is going on and Okke riding him through some very difficult moments when he has been stressed and awkward to ride.   I now have a lovely horse who is amazing to handle, is a lovely ride and I hope this year I will go out and compete.   What was so encouraging was their belief in my own capabilities.      A major thank you also for their kindness when I had to regretfully and sadly put my old horse Oliver to sleep – they cannot have been more supportive and understanding.   I could not recommend Dutch Dressage more.

My training started in Germany where my mother and father, retired lieutenant colonel Reid OBE, were stationed for many years. In those years I was fortunate to be trained by Olympic and world gold medallist Isabell Werth.    Moving to England was a big change for all of us, we first met Okke through training and competitions and quickly grew a strong connection having seen his sheer determination to succeed and be the best.   I had previously competed to Prix St George level and after selling my top horse, due to studying my degree, my mother soon found another talented 4 year old, Farben Frohe known as Goose, through her very talented friend, breeder Herr Klausing.

We’d been looking for a yard that suited all our needs and where better than Dutch dressage. I cannot fault their hard work and dedication to each livery and their horses.   Okke’s eye to detail is second to none and he knows every horse inside and out.   His guidance and support in all aspects has been beneficial for both me and Goose.  He pushed us to do Goose’s first overnight competition which was successful for all of us and as always, a brilliant laugh, we look forward to many more in the future.   Okke’s parents are made of gold dust, such dedicated, hardworking and welcoming people.  Goose will forever be grateful for those late night cuddles.  The girls, Jade and Lee-Ann are brilliant, and it’s been lovely to see them both grow in confidence and in their riding.   It is by far a top continental family run yard, always upgrading the features and facilities and certainly on par with top Olympic standards

As often happens with horse ownership, Sienna found me, I didn’t find her. She was at the same yard as my boy Willy Nilly and was an under developed, unloved horse. Almost two years were spent trying to improve her but with only minor success. She then went to a trainer who had known her as a foal for around six months and the positive changes started. This is when I move Sienna to Okke’s yard and over the past 18 months he has improved her no end. She is now regularly competing at Advanced medium level, will compete at her first PSG early 2019, whilst at the same time being a perfectly mannered horse for my 10 year old daughter. I cannot thank Okke enough for his time, dedication and love that he has shown Sienna.

Everyone at Dutch Dressage also love my other horse, Willy Nilly and can’t do enough for him. He is a softy himself and enjoys being the centre of attention. Thank you Okke and team.