Warmth and love radiates from the countless messages and memories being shared for renowned Wilton RDA teacher Pat Burgess, who sadly passed away peacefully on 4th November at home with her family by her side.
Born and raised in South Africa, she emigrated to England in 1964, and when injury forced a stop to her own show jumping career, Pat turned to teaching.
Her teaching reputation grew and during the 1980’s she coached the British Olympic Eventing team, training such legendary names such as Lucinda Green, Richard Meade and Ginny Leng.
Her greatest passion in life was the Wilton RDA. Since 1975 she
was its driving force. She always said she ran the RDA on “love, joy and
enthusiasm”.
Most importantly for Pat the RDA was never simply about how to hold the reins – it was not a ‘lesson’, it was about fun, freedom, confidence, self belief, generosity and love. With these in place the lesson could begin.
In December 2008 Pat was awarded an MBE in recognition of her work with the RDA. Her family and all her friends were extremely proud of her.
Pat was also given the honour of carrying the Olympic torch in 2012. On a very wet day, Pat was cheered on by her family and friends as she charged up one of the steepest hills in Dorset!
Throughout everything Pat never lost her tremendous sense of humour. Her five children, Pete, Jim, Tracey, Tom and Sally, nine grandchildren, nine great grandchildren and many, many friends will miss her enormously and strive to continue her legacy of love, joy and enthusiasm.
