Nicola's transition into endurance occurred after working in racing stables and riding track work. She had admired a couple of trainers and they inspired her to give training and riding a go herself. As she already had an Arabian mare, she was more interested in the longer distances, which suited her horse. After doing a few online searches she discovered endurance riding existed. In 2006 she attended her first VERA event, at Blue Rock in Gippsland, completing 20km. She's been hooked ever since!
This year's TQGC is Nicola's 11th attempt at the prestigious 160km event. She attained her 9th completion buckle, from 10 attempts when she completed the Wirrina Cove 2024 event, on her 2025 mount Lulu. The 9 previous successful completions were on her "mighty mare" Sterling Nakeeta, who is now retired.
Lulu is a nine year old grey Arabian mare, who Nicola acquired as an unbroken 6 year old. Nicola says: "she was not an easy horse to start, as she wasn't that keen on people. To this day she will only let a select few catch her! Despite this she always showed a good work ethic and loved being out in the bush training even when she was just green broken. These days she's a lot easier, just a super little mare, very honest and who always gives her best and who I know has my back, and I've got hers."
Nicola's favourite things about endurance are: "...the multiple ways in which the sport challenges you, physically and mentally. That the horse welfare is paramount and the constant learning." She also appreciates the camaraderie. "It's great going to the rides and catching up with everyone around a camp fire." She enjoys, "...exchanging stories, encouraging and celebrating your fellow endurance riding friend's successes and commiserating and being supportive and being supported when things don't go well. I love the friendly atmosphere that is conducive to the sport."
Nicola's best advice is: "Keep an open mind to learning, don't stop asking questions."
