Based near Great Western, Tanya first heard about endurance riding sitting in veterinary science lectures, given by Emeritus Professor of Equine Medicine, Chris Pollitt at Queensland University in the 1990’s. During his lectures she particularly enjoyed the magnificent slide shows, which displayed amazing photos of endurance riding amongst the course material. "I wanted to participate!"
After her Uni days, Tanya had a fabulous part bred Arabian mare, 'Cushla El Keesha' who she attained a Quilty buckle with in 2003. After acquiring that significant 2003 completion, Tanya "got busy with a career and family, so had 15 years away from the sport."
In 2013 Tanya was looking for a Crabbet filly to be her new riding horse and she found Abby (Abrielle SPA). In 2018 Tanya started endurancing with Abby. Tanya said that since she met Abby, " I have had so much fun partnering with her. She is a very opinionated mare, and prides herself on clear communication. Ears flat back and terrible looks are standard for any horse wanting to pass her or anything else she disapproves of. Despite this, she is an amazingly kind mare, who gives her all when the going gets tough. Abby has also been a master teacher, forcing me to improve my riding, training and management skills."
Tanya says "I am so very lucky to have her and I am so excited to ride at this Tasmanian Quilty. Good luck to everyone and huge congratulations to everyone who gets to the start line."
P.S. Isn't the second shot posted here special? It is a great representation of the camaraderie between the two Victorian Team members Tanya Meares and Tanya Beacham, who are riding together in this year's event. The smiles say it all!
