Para-Riders Take the Stage for the First Time at Equitana (Part 4)

In the final part of a 4-part series, we interview our Para-Rider Joann Formosa, who will be featured at Equitana 2018, the first year Para-Equestrian has ever been featured at the event.

Jo suffered an accident which was caused by an attempt to open a gate on the way back from a ride. She was left partially paralysed from the waist down due to the spinal cord and nerve damage. Jo is a Grade 2 Para-Rider who won Gold at the London 2012 Paralympics, and she now has her eyes set on Tokyo 2020.

“Don't try to be someone else other than myself”

What got you into horses?
Jo: I always say I was born to be with horses in my life. I was and still am obsessed with them; the love of such a beautiful soul, the power but the gentleness, and the strength that they give - you it's magical.

How often do you ride?

Jo: I try to ride every day, whether it's training in the dressage arena or riding the Welsh ponies around the streets at home. If I'm not riding I'm going through my test in my head. I'm always happy when I am around and riding.

Tell me about your horse – name, age, breed, quirks and how you found each other?

Jo: My horse is the love of my life, his name is Worldwide PB. He is a Hanoverian stallion, liver chestnut, 24 years young and is as fit and strong as younger horses out there. He loves to work, I tried to retire him a year ago and reduce him down to just light work, but he didn't like it – he loves to train and compete. I met and bought Worldwide in 2011, it was a match made in heaven. He picked me, as I wasn't looking for a stallion …or the price tag that came with him, but I bought him and never looked back. He gives me strength. I just love him. He knows me inside out, I’m very lucky for the love and respect we have for each other. In saying that, Worldwide’s quirks are: he loves grey horses, and every now and then he loves to throw in a big shy - just to see if you are still paying attention.

What are your goals (short or long term)?

Jo: My goals are to train hard, stay fit and as healthy as I can, keep up with my medical well-being and stay out of the hospital as I am happier in the stables. To keep riding Worldwide and compete as much as I can on him, and to I find the next horse that is as good as him. My drive is to compete at the Paralympics in Tokyo 2020, which I've been focusing on for the last three years - I just have to find the next horse who will help me get there.

What advice would you give your younger self if you could go back in time?

Jo: To be true to myself, believe in myself, don't try to be someone else other than myself, follow my heart, believe dreams do come true and always help others.

Buy your Equitana tickets now at https://www.equitana.com.au/ticketing