Six-time Paralympic gold medallist and World Champion, Natasha Baker OBE has today (27 November) been named as the newest British Horse Society (BHS) ambassador.
A champion of equestrian participation, Natasha’s life-long passion for horses “exemplifies true equestrianism and horsemanship”, according to the charity, so she was natural choice for an ambassador.
Natasha will bring her knowledge and enthusiasm to showcase the importance of increasing accessibility and participation across the industry. From learning to ride and participating in competitions to building an equestrian career, Natasha will work with the society to make every aspect of equestrianism easier for all.
The partnership will also see Natasha support the BHS’s efforts to improve equine road safety across the UK. This is a cause very close to her heart.
“I’m so excited to be the new British Horse Society ambassador, and my main objective in working with the BHS is to try and get as many people into horse riding as possible,” she said. “Horses have been a part of my life since day one and they’ve made me who I am today. Being around horses is the most amazing opportunity, because they’re our best friends and they give us so much – it’s a feeling like no other. I would love to help more children and adults to be able to have that opportunity – I want more bums in saddles!
“Like many equestrians, I started riding at riding schools, and it’s so important that we do everything we can to keep them open so that these fantastic opportunities for children and adults to meet and interact with horses can continue.
“I’m also very passionate about safety. Hacking out is a big part of my routine but heading out on the roads can feel like you’re taking your life in your hands, so I really want to help improve that situation and I’m looking forward to working with the BHS team to promote safety for all horses and equestrians.”
James Hick, Chief Executive Officer at The British Horse Society added that the society was delighted to welcome Natasha onto the team.
“Natasha is an inspiration to us all, and her determination from such a young age to take part in the Paralympics has seen her succeed in so many ways,” he said
“Natasha has spoken so passionately about her desire to give back to equestrianism and to make sure the future is bright for the next generation. We’re honoured to work with her to achieve this and to protect, as well as promote, the wonderful power of horses.”
