Advertisements

On an unseasonably warm October day in London, the air buzzed with a unique energy as riders from diverse backgrounds gathered for a transformative equestrian event. After years of dreaming, 18-year-old Jayda Everett, a participant from the Cool Ridings initiative, stood in the presence of Olympian Becky Moody. “I’m not sure I’ll ever forget today,” she exclaimed, her excitement palpable. “To ride and learn from someone like her is just beyond anything I imagined.”

Organized by the prestigious London International Horse Show, this event became more than just a series of riding lessons; it was a celebration of inclusion and mental well-being in sports. Moody, fresh off her Olympic team bronze win in Paris 2024, transformed the coaching experience into an engaging dialogue, emphasizing the importance of community and support in equestrianism.

Olympic Star Shares Expertise with Cool Ridings

The session was facilitated in partnership with Cool Ridings, an organization founded by event rider Lydia Heywood. Dedicated to promoting diversity in equestrian sports, Cool Ridings aims to empower riders from underrepresented backgrounds through shared experiences and valuable mentorship. “Equestrianism has historically lacked diversity,” said Heywood. “Our mission is to dismantle barriers and create opportunities for everyone.”

Taking place on October 15, 2025, Moody’s coaching session was a highlight for many participants. Some riders brought their own horses, while others benefited from those provided by Trent Park Equestrian Centre. “Teaching is not just about imparting knowledge; it’s about building confidence,” Moody stated, guiding participants through intricate movements that flesh out successful dressage tests. Participants focused on essential aspects like:

• Transitions
• Rhythm
• Straightness
• Balance

This hands-on coaching allowed each rider to receive personalized insights—crucial for enhancing their skills and fostering a sense of belonging within the sport.

Personal Stories and Mental Health Focus

Sport in Mind, a leading mental health charity in the UK, played a pivotal role by providing insights into the importance of physical activity for mental wellness. At the event, spokesperson Aysha Naziri remarked, “Sport, particularly equestrianism, has transformative powers. It promotes grounding, responsibility, and the kind of empathy that only develops in human-animal relationships.”

In 2025, the charity expanded its focus into the equestrian sector, concluding that this sport has unique benefits for mental health. “Equestrianism creates a safe space for participants to express themselves and confront challenges,” noted Naziri. “It nurtures not just physical skills but mental resilience as well.” This aligns with a study published in the Journal of Mental Health, which found that participants engaged in equestrian activities reported a 30% increase in overall well-being.

Moody Reflects on Riding and Wellbeing

When asked about her own relationship with equestrianism and mental health, Moody shared a deeply personal insight. “Riding has always been my sanctuary. It’s not just about competition but about healing and connection. During tough times, my horses have been my refuge,” she reflected. This authentic candor set the tone for an enriching conversation, paving the way for participants to share their own struggles and triumphs.

Moody continued to emphasize the power of support within the equestrian community. “It’s essential that we all contribute to an environment where everyone feels safe and encouraged to pursue their passion,” she urged. “The essence of teamwork in equestrianism extends far beyond the arena.”

Participants Praise the Experience

For participants, the event was a remarkable milestone. “This was an incredible experience,” exclaimed Jayda, her enthusiasm evident. “Becky has so much to share, and she really adjusted her coaching to fit us all. I can’t wait to put her advice into practice.”

Comments from fellow riders echoed similar sentiments. Many expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage directly with such a high-caliber athlete and advocate for diversity in the sport. Cool Ridings founder Heywood said, “Today marked a significant moment for us. The London International Horse Show has truly opened doors for riders who often feel excluded from this world. We are incredibly grateful.”

London International Horse Show 2025

The London International Horse Show is set to run from December 18-22, 2025, at Excel London, showcasing some of the best talent in indoor equestrian sport, including the UK’s three FEI World Cup qualifiers. This premier event prides itself on uplifting equestrians from varied backgrounds, demonstrating a clear commitment to enhancing diversity and inclusion.

Moody made her own debut at the 2023 Show with her star horse, Jagerbomb, achieving remarkable scores. Her dedication to this cause has only strengthened, with plans in motion for further collaboration with both Cool Ridings and Sport in Mind in upcoming events.

Supporting the Cause

As part of their social responsibility efforts, the London International Horse Show encourages attendees to support Sport in Mind by purchasing tickets for designated charity performances, with a portion of sales benefiting the charity directly. This initiative aims to build awareness and support for both organizations as they continue their crucial work in promoting inclusion and well-being.

As the event concluded, the participants left feeling empowered and inspired, marking a significant step toward a more inclusive future in equestrian sports. “We are committed to breaking down barriers,” stated Moody. “Equestrianism should be a space for all—even if that takes time and effort.” Amid the laughter and shared experiences of the day, one thing was clear: change is not just possible but already happening.

Source: everythinghorseuk.co.uk