Hello, I am Zoe. I have left sided hemiplegic cerebral palsy and a visual impairment. I have ridden horses for over 20 years and have competed nationally and internationally for Great Britain in Para Dressage. I also work for a conservation charity on projects to improve access for those with additional needs.
My greatest achievement was winning 6 International classes in 2021, riding my lovely horse Biscuit. I know that due to financial constraints, it is unlikely I will own my own horse. So since I started competing in Para Dressage in 2014, I have ridden horses with support from their owners. I was so lucky to find an experienced horse like Biscuit, we were a partnership for 2 years, he fulfilled many lifelong ambitions for me. Together we competed Nationally and Internationally (winning was the absolute cherry on top of these experiences), we rode on the beach and in the forest. Biscuit was my greatest teacher and my best friend. These are things I could only dream of for the previous 20 years, and I never thought they would become reality!
My biggest challenge in achieving these goals has always been finances, as I can only work part time. But with the opportunity to ride Biscuit, I knew I had to find a way. I saved all I could, applied for grants and ran a successful fundraising campaign. These finances allowed me to say yes to opportunities such as being selected to compete for Great Britain.
My dreams felt impossible, but I have learnt to embrace any opportunities I am offered, however crazy. The first competition horse offered to me was based 5 hours away by train, but it was an opportunity, so I made it work and he started my obsession the sport. I have often been to competitions or training sessions without a horse to network and learn from others, you never stop learning and evolving. The other thing that has been key is finding therapies to support my physical and mental health. These have been vital in helping me manage my CP, to catch any issues early and offer me a space to speak without judgement.
My role model growing up and still is now is my RDA (Riding for the Disabled Association) coach/mentor. She has an amazing quiet way with horses and has been a constant in my life for over 20 years. She has never said no to a challenge, it’s always been ‘we will find a way’ and I hope I take that forward in my own life too.