CERTIFICATE AWARDING CEREMONY OF THE FEI-CERTIFIED GROOM COURSE

The Certificate Awarding Ceremony of the FEI-Certified Groom Course was held at the Sri Lanka Military Academy, Diyatalawa, with the gracious presence of the Chief Guest, Colonel PADSW Ponnamperuma USP psc, the Chief Instructor and Overlooking Director Academics of the Academy. The event marked the successful completion of the internationally recognized FEI-Certified Groom Course, conducted from 01 to 03 October 2025 under the guidance of Ms. Jackie Potts, an International FEI Level 5 Coach. The course focused on enhancing professional skills in grooming, feeding, handling, and day-to-day care of horses, ensuring the development of high-standard equestrian professionals.

Distinguished guests in attendance included Mr. Ishanga Mahipala, President of the Sri Lanka Equestrian Association, Mr. Kosala Wickramanayaka, Secretary of the Association, and Dr. W.M.M.B. Wijckoon, Veterinary Surgeon of the Sri Lanka Police Mounted Division, along with senior officers, instructors, and trainees of the Sri Lanka Army Equestrian Squadron.

During the ceremony, certificates were awarded to the participants who successfully completed the course and L/Cpl Dayarathna from Sri Lanka Army Equestrian Squadron was given the Outstanding Groom Certificate based on his performances during the Course. Further, Mementos were also exchanged in appreciation of valuable contributions made towards the success of the programme. Mr. Ishanga Mahipala, Mr. Kosala Wickramanayaka, and Major Tiran Palihakkara, The Officer Commanding of the Army Equestrian Squadron, participated in the presentation of gifts and tokens of appreciation.

The ceremony reached its conclusion with heartfelt gratitude extended to Ms. Jackie Potts, affectionately referred to as our beloved coach, for her dedication and professional guidance throughout the training sessions. Special appreciation was also conveyed to the Sri Lanka Equestrian Association and all partnering institutions for their continuous support in uplifting equestrian standards within the country.

The event concluded with the vote of thanks deliverted by Mr. Alfie Ameer - Vonfidel Ranch & Miss Leora Nanayakkara - Premadasa Riding School congratulating all participants for their hard work and wishing them every success in their future endeavours.