A young horse rider, a very special horse and a remarkable journey – with a proud family connection to Bedfont Lodge No. 8381.
For many years, Bedfont Lodge No. 8381 and its Lodge of Instruction have been enthusiastic supporters of the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA), helping an organisation that makes an extraordinary difference to the lives of disabled children and adults.
But sometimes, the real impact of that support is brought home in a very personal way.
Meet Rhys Rawlings, grandson of Bedfont Lodge member W Bro Charlie Dean, whose inspirational journey from a nervous five-year-old taking his first riding lessons to competing at national level is a wonderful example of what determination, encouragement and the right support can achieve.
A Boy, a Horse and a Special Friendship
Rhys first discovered horse riding through the RDA when he was just five years old. At the time, horses were something of a mystery to him, and even wearing a riding hat was a challenge.
Fast forward to today, and Rhys has developed a wonderful partnership with his horse, Impression, whom he describes with obvious affection.
“Impression is my horse. She is always cheeky and lovely, and she does sometimes tease me a little!”
With the encouragement of his instructors, the dedication of RDA volunteers and the unwavering support of his family, Rhys has developed his riding skills and confidence to a level that once seemed unimaginable.
His determination has taken him all the way to competing at the RDA National Championships – an achievement that has left his family bursting with pride.
From Reluctant Beginner to National Competitor
Looking back on his journey, Rhys’s parents can scarcely believe how far he has come.
“If we think where he was and where he started with the RDA, when he was five and wouldn’t put the hat on, to where he is now and competing in the nationals, it’s just absolutely phenomenal,” said his proud father.
His mother described the experience as “a roller coaster of emotions”, adding that the family are incredibly proud of everything Rhys has achieved.
And it wasn’t just his family who found the occasion emotional. His instructor admitted to struggling to hold back the tears as Rhys began his performance, joking that she might need to choose less emotional music next year!
More Than Just Horse Riding
For Rhys, riding is about far more than competitions, rosettes or winning.
His father explained the remarkable effect that spending time with Impression has on him.
“When he rides, he is a different boy. He is just so relaxed. It’s so very therapeutic for him.”
Even after the most difficult of weeks, getting into the saddle seems to make all his worries disappear.
It is precisely this transformation that makes the work of the RDA so valuable.
As one of Rhys’s instructors explained, many riders arrive believing there are things they simply cannot do. The RDA challenges those perceptions by concentrating on ability rather than disability.
Its motto, “It’s what you can do that counts,” is a philosophy that Rhys has embraced wholeheartedly.
A Proud Connection to Middlesex Freemasonry
For the members of Bedfont Lodge No. 8381, Rhys’s achievements are particularly special.
As the grandson of their fellow member Charlie Dean, Rhys is part of the extended Masonic family, and his success provides a wonderful illustration of why the Lodge and its Lodge of Instruction have supported the RDA for so many years.
His grandparents are understandably delighted, with his grandmother Ann expressing how incredibly proud they are of Rhys and how grateful the family is to the RDA team at Laris Farm.
Stories like Rhys’s remind us that charitable support isn’t simply about raising funds. It’s about helping organisations create opportunities, build confidence and change lives.
What Next for Rhys?
Following his latest success, Rhys was asked how he felt about the experience.
His answer was wonderfully understated:
“It felt great. I might do it again next year!”
Something tells us that Rhys and Impression have plenty more adventures ahead of them.
Everyone at Middlesex Freemasonry congratulates Rhys on his fantastic achievements and wishes him every success in the future.
Watch Rhys and Impression’s inspirational story in the Riding for the Disabled Association’s video, featuring Rhys, his family and the people who have helped him along the way.
To find out more about the Riding for the Disabled Association, including opportunities to volunteer, fundraise or donate, visit www.rda.org.uk.
To find out more about the RDA Click Here
