Majority of Trooping the Colour soldiers learnt to ride for event
THEY make it look effortless, but this year’s Trooping the Colour has been described as one of the toughest challenges most participants will ever have faced – with the majority of mounted troops having learnt to ride especially for the occasion.
The Queen’s birthday parade, which will open the Platinum Jubilee celebrations on June 2, will be particularly difficult for soldiers as it returns after a three-year hiatus, the longest since the Second World War.
Of 250 mounted troops taking part this year, almost 70 per cent had never ridden a horse before, learning the skill in a matter of months.
“Most people who join the Army don’t know how to ride, including those who join equestrian units,” an Army spokesman revealed.
Even those who can ride must undergo a full riding course lasting up to 15 weeks in order to learn how to conduct themselves and the horses on parade with military precision.
James Aldridge, commanding officer of the Irish Guards, said: “I have done three Troopings before but this is the first on a horse, so I’ve been learning to ride for the last six months. I would not describe myself as a natural rider.”
The Army spokesman added: “It’s a huge challenge for all involved. The break is really significant.
“In a normal year, there would also be the Changing the Guard and other parades that form part of the normal rhythm of life, but that’s all been lost.”
More than 1,000 commands are issued during the parade that need to be memorised until they are second nature, with soldiers required to stay in position for the best part of 90 minutes.
“It is physically and emotionally very demanding, one of the most challenging things you can ask a soldier and horse to do,” another military source said. Capt Jonny Brooks, who will be on parade with the King’s Troop, said that even for experienced personnel, there was a lot of pressure.
“Our bread and butter is cantering at high speed, so sitting still doesn’t come naturally,” he said. “It’s a complete change of pace.”
It comes as plans are being drawn up for members of the Royal Family to replace the Queen at the event for the first time in her 70-year reign.
It is hoped that the Queen will attend at least part of the parade, but contingency plans are being made for a limited appearance.