Gemma Stewart - Leisure rider/Endurance

Gemma Stewart

Country of Residence: United Kingdom
Discipline: Leisure rider/Endurance
Social media page: https://www.instagram.com/viewfinder_uk/

How many horses do you have?
I have four horses. Two that I own and two that I’ve adopted through sanctuaries.

Which horse do you enjoy riding most, why?
They’re all so different, I can’t possibly choose! My New Forest pony is safe, sensible and reliable and I would take him to new places and try new things without any worries for either of us. My Arab is sadly semi-retired but does enjoy hacking through the summer months. I backed her myself and she’s known very few other riders so the way that she ‘feels like home’ is special. My Thoroughbred is a wonderful riding horse and really flies the flag for ex-racehorses. She’s smart, keen and loves making new friends on the trail. Last but not least, my ‘baby’ part-bred Arab was backed in June 2021 so we are laying foundations together. So far she’s proving to be bold and willing and I’m really looking forward to building our trail experience together.

Plans for 22/23
I’m hoping to resume regular lessons, get to some pleasure rides, local riding club events and maybe a couple of XC clinics but mostly, I want to enjoy the fabulous riding country that we are lucky enough to have right on our doorstep, here on Dartmoor. I would like to build on my relationship with my newer horse and work towards some long distance rides and continue to share positive experiences with my youngster as she learns about the world too.

Highlight of career so far
In my early 20s, I was lucky enough to loan a fabulous Endurance horse. I would say that the highlight of my riding career so far was absolutely the season I got to spend with him, competing with his owner. We travelled to a good few rides all over the South West and everywhere we went, he was simply phenomenal. I think I made some memories of a lifetime that year and, if I get the chance, I would love to compete at Endurance again.

What motivates you?
With the horses, I’d say my motivation comes from how much I enjoy spending the summer with them out and about, exploring Dartmoor. This is all the more enjoyable with fit horses who don’t find their work a challenge. I’d say this is my main motivation for keeping them ticking over through the winter, when everything is more challenging.

Advice for other riders
Something I wish I came to understand sooner is that things with horse take the time they take and there’s no point in rushing. Spending undemanding time with your horse, in my opinion, is one of the most valuable things you can do together and I’d recommend it to anyone looking to build a relationship with their horse, whether it’s a new partnership or not.

Ultimate goals
If the sky is the limit, I’d love to get back into the world of endurance with my ex-racehorse and compete with her in the ROR classes. My ultimate goal however is to continue to enjoy my wonderful herd and sharing Dartmoor adventures with them and with our friends too.