Richard Johnston-Smith

About me

Richard is currently British Eventing Lead Coach for Scotland and with over 20 year’s experience of competing and coaching riders and equine partnerships ranging from leisure riders to those competing at National Level, he offers a great knowledge to share with any rider. He has also supported those looking to develop their theoretical knowledge and also progress through to success in taking their assessments, up to and including BHSI (Stage 5) and Pony Club A Test.

Richard has a passion for working with the horse using training that based the latest science around equine learning to best benefit the horse rider partnership along with tried and tested techniques stemming from classical equitation. Keeping an open mind is his biggest strength offering the ability to problem solve and find the best route or solution for rider and equine. A love of eventing results in Richard being an all-round coach with a passion for dressage, show jumping and cross country, ensuring there is a clear pathway for partnerships to progress whether in private or group sessions. All he ever looks for in his riders is a desire to learn and willingness to try as these attributes lead to improvement in any combination.