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Catherine Neill
What are some of the memories you look back on and smile about?
When I was 19, I won Champion Lady Rider at Canberra Royal Show, it was my first major win at a Royal. I rode my hack that I had owned since I was 14. It was so satisfying to know that finally all the hard work was beginning to pay off.
A few years later, I won my riding at both VASA and Barastoc HOTY, on a beautiful big 17.2hh thoroughbred. I had only had him a short time, and he had only been shown lightly. It was his first and second show with me, and he was the easiest, quietest horse to ride. Like a big armchair!! I remember that he was still so green at the time, we were just hoping he was going to get the correct canter leads, let alone win the class!!
Winning the Garryowen was the pinnacle of my riding career, that entire day is filled with memories that automatically bring a smile to my face. I had only owned SLM Mercedes for about 18 months and I had achieved many successes with him in a short time. He had taken me on an amazing journey, and that was just the cherry on top. It was truly a day I’ll never forget.
Who supported you the early days?
My parents, and my family have always been a major support to me throughout my riding career. I also had lessons from Gary Beaton from age 8, and continued to for 20 years. I learnt a lot of tips and tricks from him, that I still use to today.
How did you get started in the industry and who inspired you?
Coming from a family where all of us kids rode, I don’t think I had a choice growing up, but to ride. Starting off on a gorgeous little grey welshy at age 7, I began attending Pony Club, and competing in the topsy ring. From there I progressed to a true second pony, who was the ultimate all rounder, and I got to compete at my first Royal Show when I was 9. I then got the opportunity to ride a true show pony, and so the world of travelling to Royal Shows and HOTY events began. I’m not sure I ever had one particular person or rider that inspired me. I have memories at a young age, being up in the grandstand, watching the Garryowen, or being ringside watching the Lady Rider classes, which at that time consisted of the likes of Maree Tomkinson, Caroline Wagner and Pam Ahern, just to name a few, admiring their beautiful horses, and amazing riding positions.
Who do you look up to in the equestrian world and why?
Mark Kenzig, he is the ultimate professional and his presentation of show horses is second to none. He has an amazing eye for detail, so I’m always seeking his advice on how my horses are looking or how they are working.
What Barastoc feeds are you currently using?
I’m currently feeding Barastoc Breed and Grow, and Complete Performer. And as we still hand feed the old retired ponies and thoroughbreds, we feed them Barastoc Senior.
What do you look back on and wish you could have done differently – and what advice do you have for other riders?
I guess there are particular horses, especially OTT Thoroughbreds from when I was younger, that I look back now, and think how I would approach their training differently. I guess that’s the beauty of this sport, that no matter how old or experienced you are, there is always so much more to learn. Not just from your peers, and coaches but from horses you have along the way, each one gives you their own lesson. So perhaps that would be my biggest piece of advice to other riders. Always be open minded and willing to learn, you expect your horse to be, so you need to be too!!
What are some approaches to troubleshooting some common training and horse problems within your chosen Equine Discipline?
In producing show horses, I’ve come across many horses, that are unwilling or confused about travelling straight, and then also creating a good bend around a corner. I like to have horses that can bend through their body, not just their neck. I try and incorporate a lot of lateral work into my training at home. I find this keeps the horses supple, and much more obedient to your leg. I always aim to have just a light contact to the horse’s mouth, and then use my legs to encourage them to take a more solid, even contact. The riders position is also a major factor in creating a balanced horse. This can’t be achieved without an even connection in both reins, and your weight must be distributed evenly in each stirrup, as your horse can only be balanced, and straight, if the rider is.