28/08/2026
In the spotlight: Blake McGivern
Blake first discovered her love for horses at the age of nine, at the beginning of 2020, just as the COVID-19 pandemic began. Ironically, she had once been afraid of, and even disliked, horses.
When she began showing an interest in horses, her mom, who grew up riding, wanted to make sure it was more than just a phase. Every Friday, she took her to volunteer at Dassenberg Horse Rescue, where she mucked out stalls, groomed horses, removed ticks, and basically did anything she could to spend time around them, even though she wasnāt riding yet.
In December 2020, she had her very first riding lesson and was absolutely delighted. Unfortunately, the pandemic had other plans. Another wave brought another lockdown, and she was unable to get back in the saddle until mid-2021, shortly after turning ten.
Despite the long wait, her love for horses and riding only grew stronger. She volunteered whenever she could, researched whenever she had the opportunity, read every horse book her shelf could hold, and watched countless videos about horses, riding, and yard and farm life.
After riding for about a year, she decided to take a break. The original plan was to stay away for a year before returning, but she only managed four months. When she came back, she felt more confident and determined than ever.
After spending another two years at her first riding school, she and her parents made the difficult decision to move. Leaving behind the horses she had grown to know and love was incredibly emotional, but it marked the beginning of a new chapter in her riding journey.
In February 2025, she moved to ESC, and she states couldnāt be happier. She had once been an extremely nervous rider, constantly overthinking every possible worst-case scenario. Today, she can honestly say that trying new things has become one of her favourite parts of riding, even when she isnāt very good at them yet.
She feels incredibly lucky to have parents who support her interests and are always willing to drive her to lessons, shows, and volunteering days whenever needed. Their encouragement has played a huge role in helping her pursue her passion, and she is deeply grateful for it.
Along the way, she has had the privilege of working with some truly amazing horses, and even finding her heart horse. She has also been fortunate to learn from her instructor at ESC who has helped her grow as a rider in ways she never could have imagined.
What began as an unexpected interest has become a meaningful part of her life. From mucking out stalls and volunteering at a rescue to facing her fears in the saddle, every step has helped shape her into the rider she is today.
