Our Ponies | Gareloch RDA

Bobbie: I am the leader of the Carriage Driving Team. I decided some years ago that I had had enough of being an RDA riding pony. Luckily, I demonstrated how much I enjoyed being a carriage-driving pony and quickly became a star! I am 21 years old (2025), but fit and well, and still enjoying my work. I am predominantly a Dales pony, so I’m clever, strong and very beautiful!

Breon: I am the biggest of the Gareloch RDA horses at 16.2 hh. I was born in 2012 and am an Irish Draught X.
I am the gentle giant. As well as doing my riding sessions, I love ‘speaking’ to the guests who come to Tea With A Pony and EFL. I have a very big fan club.
Together, Brodie and I have been to the regional and Scottish dressage competitions in Glasgow. We are getting better each time we go.
When I am not doing RDA work, I am on loan to Louise. She is going to do a lot of ground work with me to improve my balance and listening.
I know that I look beautiful as a grey horse but I really would prefer to be a bay or a chestnut, or indeed black. I do my best to put on my full mud camouflage most days!!!
When I lived in Ireland, I pulled a carriage. Unfortunately, Gareloch RDA do not have one that is big enough for me!

Brodie: I am the clown of the herd! I can’t help getting up to mischief. Sometimes I am too clever for my own good. Although I am 12 years old, I don’t act like it. I like to think of myself as a pocket rocket at 13 hh but, when I need to behave and be careful for my riders, I can do that too.
People do say I am very handsome with my ‘blagdon blue’ colouring!
I used to be a driving pony but unfortunately had an accident in the carriage which means I am unable to drive any more. I am actually rather frightened of carriages now. I am very happy being ridden.
I am very lucky as I now have Alison working with me to help make me more ‘streamlined’ and give me lots of fun things to think about.

Costa: I arrived with Gareloch RDA in February 2023, all the way from the other side of Glasgow! I had been working in a riding school near Uddingston. I very much enjoy my work with the RDA, particularly when games are involved.
I am told I have a very sweet nature and a nice smooth trot.
At 15 hh, sturdily built and 14 years old, I am perfect for the job. I have little riders and bigger riders.
When I am not doing RDA, I am on loan to Danny. We are working on getting me fitter and more supple. We are looking forward to going out hacking with the other horses.

Dora: I am now 13 years old, in my prime! I have had to make many adjustments in my life, moving home, being separated from my long-term buddy, and meeting lots of new people and ponies.
I am a very friendly pony and I enjoy being groomed and being with people. I recently passed my carriage-driving test and I am really enjoying being a proper RDA driving pony!