20/08/2026
Confidence isn’t something you can simply tell someone to have. It’s something you build. ❤️🐴
Throughout my riding career I’ve had my fair share of serious falls and broken bones. 4 years ago today was a fall that changed more than just my body.
I was riding my big mare Sugar when a simple canter transition resulted in a rotational fall. I went flying face first into the arena fence, leaving me with a broken arm.
Physically, my arm took around 8 weeks to heal.
Emotionally, it took a whole lot longer.
Pair that with being a relatively new mum trying to learn to work with and trust my body again after having a baby. My confidence was at an all-time low, and something as simple as asking for canter could leave me feeling sick with fear.
There was no quick fix. No magic moment where the fear just disappeared.
Instead, I slowly rebuilt my confidence through small, achievable goals. I surrounded myself with people who understood how I felt and celebrated the little wins with me. I grew my physical strength though correct riding and getting solid foundations, which then helped my confidence.
And I think that’s one of the most important things when teaching confidence.
You need a coach who can relate to how the rider feels. Someone who understands that what might seem like a tiny step to one person can be a huge achievement for another.
Sometimes confidence isn’t about pushing someone to do more. It’s about meeting them where they are, giving them the tools and support to move forward, and celebrating every step along the way.
Four years later I’m back out competing, schooling peoples horses, coaching and loving my riding journey ❤️
I’m still not fearless. I still have moments where that little voice in my head reminds me of what happened.
But I don’t let it stop me anymore.
And perhaps that’s why helping other riders build their confidence means so much to me. Because I know exactly what it feels like to be scared, to doubt yourself, and to wonder if you’ll ever feel like you in the saddle again.
Sometimes the biggest achievement isn’t the height of the fence or the result on the scoreboard.
Sometimes it’s simply having the courage to try again. ❤️🐴