Victoria Pendleton Q&A

Every Horse Remembered Q&A with Victoria Pendleton, Olympic cyclist and amateur jockey.

What do your horses mean to you?

My experience with horses has only been relatively recent but I have immersed myself in the world of equine sport. I would never have understood before interacting with horses myself personally, the joy they bring. Working with them keeps you grounded as their generosity of spirit and effort to take you with them and follow your instructions - however challenging - will never cease to amaze me. The horse has a special place close to my heart.

Why do you enjoy riding?

My horses fill me with a huge sense of pride and I love them deeply and thank them from the bottom of my heart when they improve or learn something new. They can also be incredibly entertaining with their silly antics in the field and stables. If you’re having a bad day they make you smile.

Have horses or riding got you through a difficult time?

I think my horses always make a bad day seem much better. They can transform your mood in an instant; they are incredible intuitive sensitive animals.

"I’m supporting Brooke’s Every Horse Remembered campaign because...

"Horses have looked after so many people through the ages. They are enduringly generous despite some having a very tough existence. It is only right they get the recognition they deserve for all they have given us two-legged creatures throughout history and particularly through one of the most brutal conflicts as the First World War most definitely was."