When it comes to trying something new, some sports make it easier to answer this question than others. On a professional level, gymnasts rarely make it into their thirties. The wear and tear of high intensity sports, such as basketball and swimming, are also deemed the domain of the younger generation.
Horse riding however can be quite a different story, particularly at an elite level. No one under thirty has ever won a gold medal in showjumping at the Olympic
Games. The Beijing Games are a great example of this. On the Australian team Laurie Lever competed well into his sixties, Canada’s Ian Miller was 61, while Japan’s Hiroshi Hoketsu at 67 gained over 70% in the dressage. Ina Knospe from Canberra broke her horse in at 69 and competed on the same horse at 75 at Prix St George. Klaus Balkenhol won team dressage gold at the Atlanta Olmpics at 58 and still rides and trains every day at Grand Prix level at 72. Our highest placed performer at the recent World Championships, Chris Chugg was 53, while George Sanna, our current Australian Champion is 59.
As well as attracting an older demographic, competitive riding is also the only sport that places men and women on an equal playing field. Abroad Meredith Michaels Beerbaum is just as competitive as her hugely successful
brother-in-law, while on our home soil Vicki Roycroft, now 58, has represented Australia in three Olympic Games and four World Championships.
So when considering taking up a new sport in your later years, Equestrian is a rewarding and fulfilling option for both men and women. In our own student ranks, we have several older inspirational riders. Sandra McClean is 64 and actively competing in showjumping and dressage. Murray Robertson at 65 still has regular weekly lessons and newcomer Bill Gibson at 70 is embracing a life’s ambitions to ride horses with weekly lessons.
If well- mounted and well-managed, the older student can safely take part in lessons or competition according to their capabilities. From a health perspective, riding is an aerobic exercise, promoting core strength, balance and flexibility. Additionally, horse riding can be an incredibly social sport and provide you with a network of likeminded and passionate enthusiasts.
So for any older students who are interested in learning to ride in a safe and encouraging environment, contact Chrissie on 0412405079
This Newsletter was produced by Alice Johnson of AJ’s Equine Promotions. To enquire about what services Alice could provide for your business or club, or to be a part of the next Johnson Equestrian News, email
mailto:alice@insidehistory.com.au
