One of my favourite website Eurodressage has a fantastic series of articles titled Greatest Oldies which tells the stories of great dressage riders and dressage horses of the past. These are stories from the ‘old days’ when horses that today most would call ordinary at best were given the chance to prove themselves, and when riders could go far without spending vast amounts of money, or having lucrative sponsors, or backers. In other words the stories are from a time when dressage could still be done on a shoestring, and riders of all background – financial and otherwise – could still compete as more or less equals. I will regularly write about an inspirational story either from the ‘old days’ or from present day, because I believe that we all need a little bit of inspiration to be able to dream, and to be able to carry on when things are not going the way we’d like.
In this series of articles there are some truly amazing stories – such as the story of Lis Hartlel and Jubilee. Lis who was struck down by polio at 23 went on to win a Silver medal at the 1952 Helsinki Olympic games despite being partially paralysed. Her horse Jubilee was brought as a hack by her family some years earlier, and by all accounts was not a dressage prospect at all. After being told that she will never ride again – due to being paralysed from the knee down - Lis decided to fight on, and started riding Jubilee as soon as she was mobile enough. Jubilee was chosen not for her abilities but rather because she was a reliably and steady mount, and wise beyond her years. The two of them went on to become multiple Olympic medal winners due to Lis’ determination, and Jubilee’s amazing temperament, and big heart. Unfortunately these days determination, and a horse with a heart of gold is rarely enough, but we should never say never; and stories such as Lis and Jubilee should inspire many to stay positive, and aim high.
Follow the link below to read their story on Eurodressge:
Stories like this helps me believe that one day I might be able to ride at a higher level (although not Olympic); and that maybe..just maybe it could be done on a more ‘ordinary’ horse – one that could be available for people with limited means – as long as there is true partnership, understanding and trust.
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