About Us

The club has been in existence for over 30 years, started by driving enthusiasts looking for more excitement than the showing classes that were the norm in the mid seventies.

The club is run by enthusiasts for enthusiasts, not just for the competitive ones looking for experience before moving on to national competitions, but for drivers looking for a bit of fun and those who have been there, done it and are now just looking to drive and help bring on new drivers.

Our aim over the next few years is to encourage new people to enter the driving arena and together, develop our skills and competences.

Newcomers and Juniors

DGHDC is always happy to help newcomers to the sport and to introduce junior members to carriage driving.

We have many experienced members in our club who are always happy to provide informed and accurate advice to help you get started. This can include how to fit a harness, how to balance a 2 wheel vehicle and how to enter your first event.

You will be assigned an experienced ‘Buddy’ to help you through all the daunting aspects of a new sport, explaining rules and the timings etc.

If you just want to come and spectate at your first event, someone will come and take you around and explain each element in depth.

Taster Sessions

A suitable turnout will be provided for you to be able to ‘have a go’ and experience being in the driving seat.

Younger drivers can also participate in a taster with the use of double reins where there is one set for the young driver and one set for a competent adult.

If you’re not sure about driving you could experience the thrill of being a groom on the back step.

Taster sessions are run at some club events and are usually advertised locally and in our news letters or they can be arranged by contacting the club.

Club Events

DGHDC hold club events through the summer months. These are based in Dumfries and Galloway and North Cumbria.
These events are open to all drivers from Newcomers to Open competitors and including Juniors. DGHDC also welcomes RDA drivers.

An event is run over 1 or 2 days and consists of dressage, cones and a marathon including obstacles.

If you don’t feel up to a full event you can choose to enter just 1 or 2 elements as you wish.

Drivers Indoor Challenge

An indoor event combining a cones course with 2 obstacles.

Fun Day

Outdoor fun and games Pony Club Style but with a horse and carriage.