Perfection In Our Riding Is Not The Goal!
This week has been busy, exciting, and honestly a little emotional. Episode 3 of Inside the Ingate premiered at the Will’s Park Benefit Show, and I’m so proud of what we’re building with this docuseries. Will’s Park felt like the perfect place to share it! It’s a show that’s rooted in community and the love of horses, and that’s exactly what this series is about.
One of the highlights of the episode is watching professionals Nick and Matthew compete in the International Derby at the Devon Horse Show, where we filmed back in May. Their rides were beautiful to watch, not just because of the jumps they cleared, but because of the horsemanship behind every stride. They reminded me that listening to your horse and supporting them in the moment is far more important than chasing perfection.
Alongside celebrating the premiere, I also share some of my own struggles in the saddle. I had a challenging lesson with my horse that brought up a lot of anxiety and insecurity. As an adult amateur, it’s so easy to compare myself to others and feel like I’m not progressing fast enough. Add to that my history of traumatic experiences in the saddle, and sometimes the fear feels overwhelming.
But here’s the thing: every ride is a chance to keep showing up. Some days, I’m proud of just getting on, riding through my nerves, and giving my horse the best experience I can. I know with time, patience, and consistency, confidence will come for both of us.
At the end of the day, this sport is about joy. It’s about loving these animals, supporting one another, and celebrating every step forward, no matter how small. Sharing my journey is my way of reminding you, and myself, that we’re all in this together.
So, thank you to everyone who supported the premiere at Will’s Park, and thank you to everyone who listened. Here’s to courage, compassion, and remembering why we ride. 💙