Join us for an exciting episode where our hosts, Bex Mason and Hayley Morris, catch up on their equestrian journeys and share their unique experiences from different parts of the world. Both accomplished show jumpers, Bex and Hayley, provide insights into their lives, challenges, and future plans.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• We get an inside look at the world of international show jumping through the eyes of our hosts, who bring their perspectives from the UK and Australia.
• Bex and Hayley share their stable routines, managing horses in various weather conditions, and the challenges of maintaining their training schedules.
• Hayley talks about her breeding journey, including handling young horses and raising large foals.
• Hayley explains the excitement of the Magic Millions event, including junior competitions, off-the-track classes, and the celebrity polo match that draws crowds and creates a lively atmosphere.
• Bex and Hayley delve into the challenges of cross-border travel with horses, including paperwork and regulations for the UK and Australia.
• Bex and Hayley compare their horse trucks, revealing the logistical challenges and excitement of traveling with large teams of horses!

All this and so much more in this episode of THE EQUESTRIAN EXPERIENCE.

Join us for an exciting conversation with side-saddle rider Emily Saunders, a beloved figure in the equestrian community. Discover her passion for side-saddle riding and how she's bringing this elegant discipline to life!

We explore the world of side-saddle riding with Emily Saunders, delving into her journey and future aspirations. Emily shares her experiences, from her first side-saddle ride to her dreams for the future.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• Growing up with a love for horses, Emily shares how she discovered side-saddle riding and how it became her passion. Her journey from beginner to enthusiast showcases the charm and unique challenges of this discipline.
• Emily takes us through her competitive career, sharing stories of her thrilling adventures and experiences in hunt races and scurries. She also provides valuable tips on transporting horses and preparing them for side-saddle events.
• We explore what makes a great side-saddle horse, from temperament to training. Emily shares stories about her favourite horses and their special qualities.
• Learn about the history, elegance, and camaraderie among side-saddle riders. Emily highlights how this discipline fosters a strong community spirit and encourages riders to explore new possibilities.
• For those interested in trying side-saddle riding, Emily emphasises that any horse can be trained for it, and this discipline enhances riding skills and builds confidence.

All this and so much more in this episode of THE EQUESTRIAN EXPERIENCE.

From Texas to World Stage: Rachel Duhig's Polocrosse Journey.

Join us for an exciting conversation with international polocrosse champion Rachel Duhig, who has represented both the USA and UK at the highest levels of the sport. Learn about this fast-paced, dynamic equestrian discipline and how it's bringing people together across continents!

In this episode of The Equestrian Experience Podcast, we delve into the world of polocrosse with Rachel Duhig, exploring her remarkable journey from Texas to becoming an international champion and coach. Rachel shares insights into this unique sport that combines elements of polo, lacrosse, and netball.

• Growing up in a horse-loving family in Texas, Rachel shares how her father discovered polocrosse by chance and how it became their family passion. Her journey from junior competitions to international success showcases the inclusive nature of the sport.
• Rachel takes us through her impressive competitive career, including competing in the 2011 World Cup for Team USA while 12 weeks pregnant, helping secure their highest-ever 4th place finish. She later transitioned to representing the UK, bringing her expertise to a new team.
• We explore what makes the perfect polocrosse horse, from ex-racehorses finding new purpose to purpose-bred champions. Rachel shares stories about her legendary mare Lola and her exciting young prospects, Spitfire and Tesla.
• The unique format of international competition is revealed, where teams travel across the world and compete on borrowed horses - getting just four days to prepare with their assigned mounts before competition begins.
• Rachel discusses her transition into coaching, recently leading the UK Under-21 team to victory in Zimbabwe, and shares her perspective on developing young talent in the sport.
• The global polocrosse community spans across eight major competing nations, with growing participation across Europe and South America. Rachel highlights how the sport's accessibility and strong community spirit make it special.
• For those interested in trying polocrosse, Rachel emphasises that any willing horse can start at the lower levels, and the sport actually helps develop better riding skills as players focus on the game rather than overthinking their riding.

All this and more in this episode of THE EQUESTRIAN EXPERIENCE.