Students’ research rewarded at conference

The research is hoped to make positive differences to horses and riders

AN online conference showcasing the research of equine science students has demonstrated the “commitment and determination” of the next generation of equine health professionals.

The event was held on 15

July, and 57 students from 18 education centres took part. Prizes were awarded for the best oral and poster presentations in the undergraduate and postgraduate categories, judged by David Marlin, Pat Harris of the Waltham Equine Studies Group and Helen Warren of Alltech.

The winners were: undergraduate poster Prevalence of ulcerative keratitis by

Kirsty Stratfull, University of Nottingham; postgraduate poster The perceptions of quality veterinary care by different professional roles within a referral equine hospital by Freya Rook, University of Nottingham; undergraduate oral Effect of breast support on 3D relative displacement and upper-body muscle activity in female horse riders on an equine simulator by Rachel Smith, University Centre Sparsholt; postgraduate oral Competition level does not influence intersegmental coordination between the rider and a riding simulator in sitting trot by Celeste Wilkins, Hartpury University.

Dr Marlin said: “It was extremely rewarding to see many students enjoy their moment as they took to the stage to present their research, which I’m sure will represent an important milestone in their future careers,” he said.

Postgraduate student Ms Wilkins said: “I plan to finish my PhD in early 2021 and I’m hoping to be able to make a difference in riders’ lives with the information from my PhD which focuses specifically on the techniques that result in greater harmony between horse and rider.”

Nina Robinson, University Centre Bishop Burton; Lilly Harris, Reaseheath College;

Sue Nixon, University Centre Myerscough; and Isabeau Deckers, Hartpury University were highly commended.