The Brigade’s new equestrian team has come third in the Services Team Jumping Competition at the internationally renowned Royal Windsor Horse Show. The team comprised of London firefighters who ride their own horses was put together after team captain, Wimbledon firefighter Dana Curle-Taylor, decided to create a team after seeing other services compete at events.
The Brigade team competed against teams from the Army, Royal Navy, Royal Airforce, Police as well as services in Bahrain, and paraded in front of King Charles and other dignitaries.
Firefighter Dana Curle-Taylor, who has served for three years in the Brigade and ridden horses since she was five years old, recently returned to competing on the showjumping circuit with her horse Edina. The rest of the team included former jockey turned firefighter, Kylie Manser-Baines, and firefighter Alice Sweeney.
Firefighter Curle-Taylor said: “I have dreamt about competing for the Brigade and it’s finally happened. I put the team together in February and we’ve already made it to our first competition at a huge prestigious event. I’m so proud of the team for taking this big step.
“I decided to form the Brigade team following my stint working in the Army. I saw first-hand how they had equestrian teams. My passion for horse riding and my love of horses meant I was really motivated to set something up for fellow firefighters who also share my passion.
“For me personally, I believe it’s important to have London Fire Brigade represented at big horse events, especially when you think about the history of horses in the fire service, and how they used to draw carriages to help firefighters put out fires in London.”
Kylie Manser-Baines joined the Brigade five years ago and is based at Forest Hill Fire Station. Following her retirement from flat racing, Kylie has used her skills and experience to rehabilitate retired racehorses including her horse, Edward.
Firefighter Manser-Baines said: “I love being a firefighter and being part of London Fire Brigade, so to be able to take part in this prestigious event on behalf of the Brigade has been an amazing experience. I hope this is the first of many competitions.”
Firefighter Alice Sweeney, who is based at Kentish Town Fire Station and has a passion for dressage, rode her horse Milly. The duo stepped up at the last minute to take part after an injury to another member of the team.
Speaking at the competition, Firefighter Sweeney said: “I am really proud of how well we did. Jumping in such a large arena is not our forte but Milly really kept a cool head.
“My horse is a winner in my eyes. It’s such an honour to be in uniform, be part of the team and I am so proud to be a part of it all. I’ve had such an amazing time! We go home with lots of great memories and a third place rosette.”
