Ellie Hamilton is a twenty-four-year-old international para dressage rider based in Rochdale. Ellie combines her full-time career as a Marketing Specialist with riding and spends all of her free time at the stables. She says “I just love being outdoors, whether that’s with my horses or walking my dog, Buddy”. Ellie competed in her first international two years ago; Other dressage highlights include winning the Grade 4 Silver Nationals (both summer and winter series) on Piggy and placing in the top 10 at the Prelim Silver Nationals on Tino.
Tell us about your horses
Ellie winning the Grade 4 Silver Nationals at Hartpury with Piggy
I have a 19-year-old Welsh Section D called Piggy, and my sister’s 19-year-old warmblood named Tino. I’ve competed up to Elementary in able-bodied classes and Grand Prix in para dressage on both horses. Piggy recently made his comeback at Wellington CPEDI after a year off due to eye surgery and a major stifle injury and he won all three days! I was incredibly proud of him.
How did horses come into your life?
I started riding when I was four but didn’t get my own pony (Piggy) until I was thirteen. I caught the dressage bug early, and over the last 10 years, Piggy and I have gone from scoring 60% at Intro level to competing internationally in para dressage.
Who have been influential in your training?
Ellie and Tino at the Elementary Regionals
I currently train with Sophie Wells, whom I met in 2023 at a Para Academy camp, and I’ve never looked back. She challenges me in the best way and pushes me to be a better rider. I have also been fortunate to have spent a few summers at Olivia Towers, whom I really aspire to. I love that she always puts the horses first, and it’s something I’m passionate about.
What do you love about dressage?
I love that there is always something new to learn. Each horse gives you a different feel, even when performing the same movements. Dressage is about the partnership, and I am constantly striving for harmony in both training and competition.
It takes a team to do dressage, who is in your support team?
Ellie with Piggy after winning the Grade 4 Silver Nations at Myerscough
My amazing boyfriend, Sam, he drives me everywhere, is the chief polo-giver and videographer. My sister is also a key part of my team; she travels with us and is in charge of plaiting the horses (her speciality!).
What are your future goals and aspirations?
In the short term, I aim to compete at a CPEDI 3*. My long-term goal has always been to reach the Paralympics.
Proudest moment?
Ellie and Tino waiting for the prize giving at the Prelim Nationals
My proudest achievement to date was competing at my first International in October 2023 with Piggy. We came away with two firsts and a second! He was the only cob there and he held his own. Piggy and I have done many firsts together, and that was definitely my proudest moment to date.
For anyone starting in dressage, what advice would you give?
My advice would be to not stress about scores and just have a good time. One thing the last 12 months has taught me is that you never know what’s around the corner, so enjoy your horses and just be grateful to be able to ride and compete.
Your Top Tip
Ellie and Piggy at Wellington CPEDI
Always listen to your horses! Horses are great teachers, so listen to them, whether it’s good or bad.
What is the best piece of advice that you have ever been given?
I would probably say it’s regarding having a positive mindset. Mindset can really make the difference both on and off the horse, and it’s something I am constantly working on to better myself and my horses.
Want More?
If you enjoyed meeting Ellie you might like to view more dressage rider “chatting with” interviews here. You can keep up with Ellie’s progress and visit her instagram page here