A bit about me

My name is Sharon Howe, and I live in the beautiful Cheshire countryside with my husband and our two dogs, Poppy and Mabel. I am a big dressage enthusiast and I publish a weekly interview with some of the top dressage riders and trainers, along with many up-and-coming young riders from all over the world who provide fascinating insights into their lives to date. Alongside these interviews I also publish regular articles featuring other aspects of the dressage world, offering insights into the people behind the riders and dressage life.

Horses have been a passion of mine for as long as I can remember, but my journey into the world of dressage really started when I bought my first pony, Riley. Riley is a 14-year-old Welsh Section C, and I’ve owned him for five years now. Our story wasn’t what I had planned. He wasn’t the horse I thought I’d have as my first, but there was something about him that I instantly fell in love with. I had no grand plans when he came into my life — I just wanted to have fun and enjoy the experience. Little did I know, he would open the door to a whole new world of dressage for me.

Riley was diagnosed with kissing spine, which led us on a long journey of rehabilitation. It was a challenge, but it was also incredibly rewarding to see how far we’ve come together. It made me realise how much I value the journey, the ups and downs, and the special bond that’s been created as we worked our way through it all.

Alongside Riley, I also have Blackjack, a British Warmblood. He’s five years old and was an unbacked 3-year-old when I bought him. I knew I wanted to progress in dressage and compete at higher levels in the future, and I believed Blackjack would be the perfect partner for that journey. Although I’m still a beginner, I have big hopes for both of us. Backing a youngster is a completely new experience for me, but it’s been so rewarding to watch him grow and develop.

Both of my ponies are incredibly sweet, though they definitely have their own personalities! Riley, with his cheeky Welsh side, and Blackjack, who’s got his own playful spirit, keep me on my toes. But as much as I enjoy riding, I also take great joy in caring for them. For me, it’s important that my horses get to be horses — enjoying life, rolling in the fields, and just having the freedom to be themselves.

My love for horses started when I was a teenager. Our new neighbours had horses and asked me to help, which sparked a passion that’s only grown over the years. Life and work kept me busy, so I only managed to have riding lessons on and off. It wasn’t until five years ago that I finally bought Riley, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Not long after I got Riley, I started my blog, “The Life of Riley,” as a way to document our journey together. What started as a simple blog to preserve memories grew into something much more. I began interviewing riders in similar situations to mine, which led me to the world of dressage. I found myself captivated by the stories of other riders and their journeys. Each person’s story was unique and inspirational in its own way, and I wanted to share that with others.

Over time, I expanded the blog and started featuring more about the sport, with the vision of creating an online style magazine that’s purely about dressage. It’s become more than just a blog; it’s now a place where I can share everything I’ve learned, from interviews with inspiring riders to tips, stories, and all things dressage-related.

When I’m not with my ponies or writing, you’ll find me in one of my favourite coffee shops or indulging in a bit of afternoon tea — it’s my little escape from the busy world around me.

Thank you for taking the time to read a bit more about me. I hope you enjoy following my journey, and I’m excited to share more of it with you.