When passion meets purpose

Written on the 6th July 2023.

The Juniper Co. has sponsored professional event rider, Ginny Howe for many years. From enjoying watching Ginny and her horses compete in stunning settings like Blenheim Palace, to experiencing the disappointments when things don’t go to plan, we have shared with her the incredible highs and devastating lows that the sport can deliver.

Throughout the spring, we have been working with Ginny to create some new content for her website and social media channels. Working alongside Ginny has served as a reminder of just how powerful it can be when you apply purpose to your passion.

Ginny has spent most of her working life as a successful event rider, competing a team of horses at the top level of the sport. Whilst she continues to enjoy this career path, in recent years she has been exploring ways in which she can broaden her remit and ensure she stays at the top of her game.

In their ‘Tackroom Chat’, Nicki spoke to Ginny about some of the ways in which Ginny has expanded her business, beyond competing. “I have got a much smaller string of horses to compete this year, purposely, so that I can focus on teaching as well,” she explains. “I’m very passionate about teaching and it is something that I’ve always enjoyed.”

Allowing more time for coaching other riders has led to many new opportunities, including the chance for Ginny to coach in Barbados! “It was a fantastic opportunity last winter,” she recalls. “Partly why I love the coaching aspect of my job, is that no matter where you are, when there’s horses involved and the right people, it’s so rewarding. They just show so much admiration and they’re just so grateful for me travelling out there. They’re hugely, hugely dedicated, and just very passionate about what they do; always wanting to get better at whatever level they are at. And so, for me, it was just very heart-warming.”

Focusing more on coaching and producing good quality young horses alongside competing has allowed Ginny to manage her operation more commercially, whilst ensuring that her work ultimately continues to be fuelled by her passion. “I’ve always loved the breeding side. If I wasn’t an event rider, I would love to have had lots of money and make a stud. I’m passionate about it. I began breeding in 2013, that was when the first foal landed at foot. Since then, I have had 15 homebred foals, which shocked me when I counted them up!

“I get so much satisfaction out of seeing people having fun with the horses I have bred. I never set out to breed five-star event horses. I just want horses with nice temperaments, which is why it’s very important to me that my two stallions have the most incredible temperaments. I think there is a big market for horses for amateurs and professionals that might not necessarily be on paper a five-star event horse, but if they have the heart to do it, you never know what is achievable.”

By allowing herself the time to revisit her why and properly think through her strategy for the next few years, Ginny has undoubtedly put her business in the best possible position to face whatever the future will bring.

Watch the full interview with Ginny on her YouTube channel, here.