Galloping Through Life: My Horseback Riding Adventures and Lessons in Passion
Hi, I’m Krithika Pillai, a 16-year-old AS Level student in DPS, and I’m excited to share my journey as a horse rider! Since I was little, horses have shaped my life, teaching me discipline, resilience, patience, and the pure joy of pursuing my passion.
In this blog, I’ll introduce you to the world of equestrian sports, share my experiences, and highlight the valuable life lessons I’ve learned along the way.
Exploring the World of Equestrian Disciplines
Equestrian sports offer a fascinating variety:
Dressage: Often called “horse ballet,” emphasizes precise movements and harmony between horse and rider.
Show jumping and cross-country: These test speed and agility over obstacles, with cross-country featuring solid, unknockable fences.
Endurance racing: My favourite, involving long-distance rides through beautiful landscapes, with careful attention to horse welfare through vet checks.
Polo: A fast-paced team sport where riders on horseback use mallets to score, demanding both strategy and speed.
Beyond these, many other unique equine sports exist worldwide.
Chasing the Finish Line: My Racing Adventures
I’ve had the amazing opportunity to compete at the Terengganu International Endurance Park (TIEP) in Malaysia. My first race, a 40KM beginner level, saw me and my horse Fiona set a personal best after she passed all vet checks.
My second 40KM race in April presented a greater challenge. Despite finishing on time, Fiona’s heart rate spiked briefly due to the heat, leading to a disqualification. This taught me crucial lessons about managing heat stress and strengthening my bond with Fiona.
Swinging into Action: My Polo Journey
Joining the Singapore Polo Club in 2023 opened up the thrilling, strategic world of polo. This fast-paced team sport has taught me to swing a mallet at full gallop, boosting my confidence and teamwork as I learn to outmanoeuvre opponents.
Pitching In at the Stables: My Horse Volunteering Story
My love for horses extends beyond riding. Since I was nine, I’ve volunteered at Gallop Stable, a stable near my house, learning to groom, tack up, feed, and shower the horses along with taking riding lessons. This hands-on experience has been vital in understanding and bonding with these incredible animals.
Life Lessons from Working with Horses
Horses aren’t machines; they are sentient beings requiring empathy and trust. Caring for them has instilled a strong sense of responsibility. Initially shy, polo has pushed me to communicate effectively and collaborate within a team. Setbacks have taught me to adapt and persevere. My successes fuel my passion, and my failures drive my growth.
Closing Remarks
I am forever grateful to my parents who paved my path in this remarkable journey. So, go after what ignites your soul! It brings unparalleled joy and lasting lessons. Find your own gallop, and let it lead you to a life lived with passion!
