Saddle Stories: Training, Trust & Teamwork

From early morning barn chores to competing at international events, the world of horses has been my greatest passion. But the journey isn’t always as glamorous as it seems. In this post, I’ll share some of the highs and lows that have shaped me as both a rider and trainer. There have been many significant moments over the past seven years that remain vivid in my mind throughout my experience. I will always remember the 13-year-old girl who was dragged to the stables by her mum, with my main focuses being beauty and friendships. Now writing this, I have to admin, I get excited buying a pair of wellyboots! Reflecting on my upbringing, I am grateful for the exposure this sport has brought me - the discipline, resilience and confidence I have gained along the way.  One of my most vivid memories is competing at the Blair International Horse Trials in 2023 and 2024. I had always dreamt of competing alongside high-level riders and Olympians, and even placing in classes at such a presti...

 The equestrian world is evolving rapidly under the influence of social media. Platforms like Facebook and YouTube are reshaping the sport by providing transparency. Riders, trainers and equestrian brands are now able to reach vast audiences, sharing their journeys, tips and even sponsorships. However, this rise of equestrian influencers brings its own set of challenges.  The pressure to perform while maintaining authenticity often leads to unrealistic portrayals of the sport, blurring the line between genuine horsemanship and a fake image. Significantly to those working within the equestrian industry, the feeling of constant pressure and fear to remain apparent as brand image and reputation can be destroyed most significantly through negative word of mouth. I have previously worked in a horse riding role and also had the oppurtunity to become a brand ambasssador, however this does come with a sense of awareness of the power of social media and word of mouth. Controversies sur...

The relationship between a horse and rider is built on a foundation of trust, respect and care. Developing this bond takes time, patience and dedication, both in and out of the saddle, but the rewards are immense leading to better performance and a deeper connection. Horses are naturally prey animals, meaning they rely on their instincts to assess situations for safety. For a rider to become a trusted partner, they must demonstrate patience and consistency. Groundwork, such as leading exercises and desensitization, can help establish mutual respect. Positive reinforcement is important as rewarding good behaviour with praise or treats will reinforce trust and positivity, build a lasting bond. From personal experience, I feel the time spent with my horse outside of riding is just as important. Feeding, grooming and stable management offer opportunities to strengthen our bond. Previous experience working with behavioural issues has also allowed me to sympathise with the animals and transf...

Equestrian sport blends talent, athleticism and a deep bond between the horse and rider. However, this journey can be filled with many hurdles along the way like injuries, health setbacks and sometimes emergencies. Riders often face a range of injuries throughout their journey, particularly riding falls being the most common. Statistics show a significant percentage of riders will experience a fall leading to injuries like fractures and muscle strains at some point.  I've had my personal share of countless tumbles; some resulting in hospital visits, teaching me the importance of rehabilitation and patience. To prevent injuries, it is important to prioritise strength training and understand behaviours, focusing on core stability and confidence. Horses also face health challenges. Colic, lameness and respiratory issues are common amongst horses. Recognizing early signs, such as unbalancedness or coughing, can be crucial. I have faced a few scares when a horse has shown signs of d...