Sophie Sacco
Chairman & CPO
Hi, I’m Sophie!
You may know me from managing Downlands Equestrian and FoxyEquestrian.
For the past 20 years, I’ve been based in Wiltshire, working as a groom across private yards as well as race, hunt, and event yards. Horses have always been my greatest passion, and I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to help revive the riding club in this area—something that feels perfectly in tune with my core values.
I currently have a beautiful ROR called Gifty, who you’re sure to see me out and about on. At home, I’m supported by my husband Matt and our son Teddy—neither of whom have the slightest interest in horses, which is probably just as well, as they have no idea what I really get up to when I’m ‘working’!
Having recently embarked on the BHS career transition, I am pleased to have passed my stage 2 teach and stage 3 care in preparation to become a BHS Accredited Coach.
I bring with me a wealth of experience and a strong network within the equestrian world, all of which I hope will benefit the club and its members. I’m equally excited to learn from fellow enthusiasts and, together with the fantastic SWRC committee, create a welcoming hub for our local community of horse lovers.
Cassie Capsey
Secretary
Hi I'm Cassey, I have over 35 years experience in the equestrian world. I have a background in showing and dressage.
You may know me from my previous business Tidy Tack rooms. As the name suggests I love all things organising and tidying. I am also a wizz at show prep and turnout.
I was posted to Tidworth and Andover during my military service and fell in love with this part of the world.
I Have traveled extensively and worked with horses all over the world, I have recently relocated from Essex and am very keen to get involved in the equestrian world down here.
My daughter is also a passionate equestrian and looking forward to joining in the clinics, training and shows.
My husband has recently started to get involved with horses and really enjoys helping out at the yard. My son is more interested in gaming but enjoys riding occasionally.
I am really excited to get stuck in and look forward to meeting you all at the events.
Ellie Brown
Teams
Hi, I’m Ellie, and I’ve been horse mad for as long as I can remember! I’ve been lucky enough to ride and own horses all my life, and over the years I’ve competed in dressage up to PSG level, both in the UK and abroad during my time as a young rider.
I’m really looking forward to leading the club’s teams throughout 2026 – it’s something I’m passionate about and I can’t wait to get stuck in and support our riders at every level.
The past few years have been a bit of a rollercoaster as I’ve been producing a very talented (but very cheeky!) young horse called Arthur who’s taught me a huge amount – including how to fall off with grace! That journey has sparked a new love for groundwork and a deeper interest in biomechanics and how horses really move and think.
I’m always up for a chat about horses (over a cuppa or with a glass of Prosecco in hand!) so feel free to say hi at events or get in touch if you have any questions about our teams or training.
Jenna Smith
Marketing & Media
Hi, I’m Jenna, I moved from Warrington to Wiltshire back in 2006 to serve in the British Army—and of course, my beloved Northern horses came with me! Horses have been a part of my life for over 30 years. I’ve worked on a variety of yards and provided freelance livery services over the years, but my true passion lies in the show ring—although we’re happy all-rounders at heart.
At home, I’m supported (and sometimes followed with a pitchfork!) by my long-suffering husband and our three children—twin girls and a teenage son. I’m still holding out hope that one of them will catch the horse bug!
Right now, I have Massiah (I didn’t name him!), a striking Welsh Section D, and Princess (also not my doing!), a cheeky little Welsh Section A who’s proving to be the perfect pony for my kids to learn on.
I’m a down-to-earth equestrian who just wants to have fun, enjoy my horses, and connect with like-minded people. I’m really excited to help grow a supportive, inclusive, and active community of riders—and to build a riding club that welcomes everyone, no matter their background or ambitions.
Pip Watkins
Events Manager
From the age of 4, all I wanted to do was ride. By the time I was 8, I had nagged my parents so relentlessly they gave in and bought me my first pony and I’ve never really looked back. Over the years, I’ve competed up to Foxhunter level in showjumping and Novice level in eventing – experiences that have given me plenty of thrills, a few spills, and a lifelong passion for all things equestrian.
Alongside riding, my professional background is in Marketing and Events, which has given me the skills (and patience!) to plan and deliver competitions smoothly. When I’m not in the saddle or at my desk, you can find me at Dorset Showground, where I help to run British Dressage and Arena Eventing competitions. I’m also in training to become a British Showjumping Judge and have recently taken up a new role as a starter for British Eventing competitions.
Between riding, working, organising, and volunteering, horses make up pretty much every corner of my life – and that’s exactly how I like it. I’m excited to bring that mix of experience, energy, and organisation to SWRC and help create a calendar of events that our members can really enjoy.
Lacey Salter
Junior Committee
Hello! My name is Lacey, and I’m 17 years old. I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining SWRC as a junior member. I’ve been passionate about horses for as long as I can remember and have been riding for 13 years. My horse, Nelly, a Thoroughbred mare, and I love competing in showjumping.
Currently, I’m working towards my Level 3 Equine Management qualification at college, where I’ve achieved distinction grades in my first-year exams. After completing my second and final year, I’m excited to pursue a career in the equine industry.
Taking on this position with SWRC is really pushing me out of my comfort zone, but I see it as a great opportunity to build my confidence while helping others along the way. My goal for the junior section is to create a welcoming and supportive environment where juniors can make new friends, have fun, and proudly represent the club.
Join Our Riding Community
At South Wiltshire Riding Club, you will find support, training, and friendship in an environment tailored for riders of all ages and abilities. Embrace the joy of riding in a community that cares.