Dawn Elliott-Moulden, ABRS ATD, BHSIT

As a child Dawn was never really interested in riding - she was forced by her sister to go hacking! By the age of 12 her sister had given up, but Dawn had got the bug, and started to have ponies on loan. Growing up she was far more interested in jumping, and know nothing about dressage. After school Dawn went to agricultural college, and decided that she wanted to pursue a career in horses. Aged 17 she got a YTS placement at Contessa, for her initial assesment she rode Bunafsha, who was the loveliest horse she had ever ridden! Dawn completed her BHSAI and got the opportunity to compete, and had Zeus on loan. In her position of Head Girl, Dawn has continued to train with Tina over the years, and now helps to train students at Contessa.

Dawn had several horses of her own, she rode in demonstrations for the ABRS with Dr Reiner Klimke and Arthur Kottas, of the Spanish Riding School. She continued her competitive career with school horse Detzky who was successful at Novice level, then she was fortunate enough to be offered an advanced horse to buy - Escuro (Roo). This special chap really helped Dawn go to new heights with her riding, giving her further opportunity to compete and establish herself with the advanced movements. When Roo, sadly, had to retire from competition due to chronic lameness problems, Dawn was given the opportunity to compete Lanzo. They made a winning combination right up to Advanced, and qualified for the summer regionals at Advanced Medium level. Dawn now has the ride of Marcus, although competitions are currently on hold due to the imminent arrival of a new Elliott-Moulden!

Dawn holds the BHS Intermediate Teaching Certificate, and the ABRS Advanced Teaching Diploma - the highest qualification offered by the society. In 2004 she was awarded the Jeffress Trust Scholarship for instructors.

In August 2005 Dawn gave birth to her daughter, Millie, who is already showing a keen interest in ponies! August 2008 saw a new addition to Dawn's family with the birth of another daughter - Tori