Blame it on the Rein!

Queensland’s Gemma Creighton, 19 was riding high in Bangkok as she represented Australia at the International Show Jumping Competition for Young Riders, until fate took an unfortunate turn.

While riding on a borrowed horse with borrowed equipment, Gemma’s reins snapped.

The incident occurred when Gemma, whose horse dropped his head after the first fence, pulled on the reins at the second fence, to find the reins had snapped off near the bit.

“I couldn’t have been more unlucky,” said Gemma who was in the leading position at the time.

“My horse was jumping beautifully when the reins snapped but I was very lucky the six year old gelding I was riding took it so well,” says Gemma.    

After the reins failed on one side, Gemma’s horse kept moving in circles until an official took control of the horse. 

After successfully joining the Young Riders team Gemma was keen to win in Bangkok but is happy to chalk the event up as experience.

“As a young showjumper I need to build my experience and inner confidence so I’m able to handle all types of situations in future competitions – both at home and overseas”.

“So, although I didn’t come home with a trophy I was thrilled to have the opportunity to once again represent my country at an international level,” said Creighton.

Gemma’s long term goal is to follow in the footsteps of her father and coach, Guy Creighton who has represented Australia at two Olympics.

By: Jacqueline Dearle/Zebramez Media