How Long Have You Participated In
Horse Activities
I was one of those horse crazy kids who
lived in the city and on rare occasions
got the opportunity to “have a ride” on
someones horse. The first thing I did
when I moved to the country in 1976
was buy an aged farm horse, whose
services had been replaced by a
motor bike. She really was a gem and
I have never been without horses
since. I guess that makes it almost
40 years, how time flies when you
are doing something that you love.
What Inspired You To Become
Involved
Well I guess it was the fact that I
got bucked off and it really hurt,
and as I limped back to the house
I decided that it was time I learnt
to ride properly. I went to a Clinic
run by Betty Andre and that was
the beginning of my passion for
Quarter Horses and the western discipline.
Betty guided me to the purchase of my
first QH, Lake Tyrell Knotty Deck, and he
was perfect for me. Later on, both Bernard
McAnerney and Gene Redwood kept my
involvement and enthusiasm alive with
their support, advice and tuition on two
special horses Golden Pepper and Designer
Zipper. I still have both of these horses at
home.
What Is Your Favourite Part Of The
Sport
Like many others it is the friends I have
been lucky enough to make over the years
and the support they have extended both
in the show arena and life in general. My
two favourite events are Pleasure and
Hunter Under Saddle.
Why This Sport Instead Of Another
Living in the country it is so much easier
to have access to your preferred sport in
your own backyard. I can walk outside
and saddle up any time I choose, that is
pretty cool
What Is our Practice Philosophy
No Overload - No Progress
I think as I have gotten older I do not stick
to that as much as I used to, I have a very
trained horse Flashy Zipper, and I try very
hard to take notice of his responses to my
aids, get it right and keep us both happy.
What Does our Family And Friends
Think About Your Hobby
My Husband is supportive, although a non
rider, he is very good with constructive
criticism, which I appreciate. My non
horsy friends are OK, as long as I do not
talk horses all the time.
Who Inspires You To Reach Your Goal
No one person in particular. Many of
the youth are an inspiration, I have
watched “little tackers” grow and become
successful competitors as Amateurs and
some as trainers, and their dedication
and achievements would have to be an
inspiration to any of us who have observed
this transition over the years.
Tell Us Something About Yourself That
People Might Not Know
Before moving to the country I was an Ice
Speed Skater and Club Coach.
Are You A Collector Of Anything
Yes I love Cut Crystal.
What Is Your Favourite Colour
Soft blue and vibrant green.
Favourite Saying
Where There's a Will There's A Way.
If You Could Have Three Wishes
Granted, What Would They Be
Like many others, Turn the clock back,
not too far though; have the opportunity
to see Australia as a"Grey Nomad" with my
husband Kevin, and to be able to continue
to ride my special boy Flashy.
Page 10 • The Australian Quarter Horse Magazine • July • August • 2017