Connection to Horses: I’ve loved horses as long as I can remember. When I was five years old, my very non-horsey parents finally gave in and allowed me to start western riding lessons. As an adult, I took up eventing and a little bit of polo. I love the challenge and adventure of learning to communicate and form a partnership with horses. I had my first horse, a Quarter Horse mare, for 25 years. She was my best friend and lived to the very respectable age of 32. I enjoy riding my Thoroughbred gelding when I’m home on leave from my job in Oman, and I love learning about local riding styles during my travels.

Why I Signed Up: I think the best way to see the world is from the back of a horse, and I’ve always wanted to visit Patagonia. Plus, I’m very competitive, so this race seemed the perfect way to check all the boxes! I also look forward to meeting my fellow race participants and the organizers, as I think anyone who’d seek to be involved in this project must be worth knowing. Finally, I’m hoping to learn something new – both about this part of the world and about horsemanship.