Michael Bates
Michael started riding at the early age of years. His first pony was called Dancer . It was with his grey mare Razzamatazz that he competed BSJA from 9-12. At 12 years he began producing a quality coloured gelding called Shamus. Michael competed him through the pony club ranks, eventing, showjumping and also with CHAPS, qualifying him for the Royal International Horse Show. At 15 years Michael bought “Another Abstract” a coloured mare that went on with numerous placings in CHAPS and Eventing. It was Michaels next horse “Coole Dude” that was to be a career changing purchase, and a massive influence into where Michael stands today, he proved to be a horse of a lifetime. Originally Coole Dude was bought as a 4 year old from David Bartram as a Hunter potential. Michael began producing him successfully as a hunter until the foot and mouth outbreak. With showing classes around the country cancelled, they turned their efforts to Dressage, where a few competitions were running locally. Their outstanding success at this new sport encouraged them into affiliating with British Dressage, where the partnership never looked back. During this time Michael was training with Bereiter Markus Bauer. They went from strength to strength and in the short space of 2 years were competing at Prix St George. Due to their success, they were selected to represent Great Britain on the Young Rider squad. Being a part of the British team they benefited from training with some of the best trainers the UK has to offer, including Markus Bauer, Jennie Loriston-Clarke, Emile Faurie and Micheal Assouline. With Michaels sound knowledge of producing horses through the grades he channelled his experience into young horses acquired from some of the top Dressage bloodlines in Germany. His obvious eye for potential star talent has seen him produce his acquired youngstock regularly in the top ten 4 and 5 year old young Dressage Horse Finals in the UK. Michaels dedication and sound relationship with owners has seen him achieve a National title, a win in the Dressage Masters Championships & the title of the 5yr old International young dressage horse at Hickstead, aboard a horse produced solely by him. Over the years he has now won 5 Regional Championships. With Michaels character for patience and perfection, he continues to produce outstanding young horses in an exceptional correct manner, whilst also competing across the country at National level. With his immaculate attention to detail, his time is also much sought after for training others in the sport, spending time with private clients and teaching at clinics.
