My Journey

Horses have been part of my life for as long as I can remember. My love for them began when I was just two years old, sitting at Wright’s Riding Academy in Troon, where my mum worked as a cleaner. By the time I was six or seven, I was having regular riding lessons, and at fourteen I got my first pony — who is still with me today, now happily retired. Horses have shaped who I am, and that connection has only grown stronger over the 30+ years.

My journey into saddle fitting came from personal experience. With my Connemara, I faced saddle fit challenges that opened my eyes to just how complex and important correct saddle fit truly is. That experience led me to dive deeper — not only into saddles, but into correct training, balance, and the biomechanics of the horse. Along the way, I’ve studied approaches such as the TRT method, Annie Dillon’s work, and classical in-hand exercises, all of which helped me understand how horses can move more freely when they are comfortable and supported.

To develop my skills, I have undertaken extensive training with the Society of Master Saddlers (SMS). I began with the introductory saddle fitting course before enrolling on the full SMS qualification. I have completed and passed the flocking course, the written assessment, and attended the required practical training days. The only step remaining is my final practical exam, which I plan to sit within the next six months — at which point I will become a fully qualified SMS saddle fitter.

Beyond SMS training, I have taken part in equine dissection studies, equine massage and anatomy training, and shadowed experienced saddle fitters and physiotherapists. I have also attended lectures with leading professionals, including Olympic-level farrier Ben Benson. These experiences have deepened both my practical skills and my appreciation of the incredible resilience — and vulnerability — of horses.

Changing career to become a saddle fitter has been a natural step for me. I’ve lived and breathed horses all my life, and now my focus is on using that knowledge and experience to help others. My goal is simple: to support both horse and rider by providing honest advice, careful assessments, and solutions that prioritise comfort, welfare, and partnership.

This isn’t just a profession for me — it’s a passion. Every horse deserves the chance to move well and feel comfortable, and every rider deserves the confidence that their horse is truly supported. That’s why I do what I do.