Horse Power

Godalming-based Paralympic gold-winning equestrian Sophie Christiansen talks to Sandra Smith about how a horse riding charity set her on the right course

- Sandra Smith

Feisty. Are there any other words that more aptly describe Sophie Christiansen? Actually, yes. Try spirited, energetic and determined. Not to mention successful. And before you’re tempted to dismiss such accolades as a little over the top, we’re talking about a Paralympic multi-gold medallist and BBC Sports Personality of the Year contender whose sporting prowess as a world-class competitor has made her a role model for young riders and inspiration to sportspeople of all abilities. She’s also a fierce disability campaigner – her most recent petition is to improve rail network accessibility for wheelchair users after she was left stranded on a train at Godalming Station this summer.

Her heady achievements were first nurtured over two decades ago by a charity, which this year celebrates its 50th anniversary.

“My primary school had a special unit attached, which gave me the best of both worlds – support to access equipment and physiotherapists while making able-bodied friends as well.” At home in Godalming where she lives with her boyfriend, Peter, Sophie recalls her early contact with the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) and its immediate impact. “At the age of six, I was taken to my local RDA every other week. Riding didn’t seem like physio; I loved the freedom the horses gave me.”

Quadriplegic cerebral palsy affects Sophie’s whole body. Fine motor skills and coordination have always been a challenge, but not to the point of inhibiting her. Naturally competitive, at school she enjoyed football and hockey until riding became her main focus.