Sponsored Equestrian Rider

At 20 years of age, Abbie O’Brien is Mader International’s sponsored Rider, competing nationally in the exclusive sport of Dressage. She is based at Boneo Park on the Mornington Penninsula with her two young horses and has just competed in the Saddleworld Dressage Festival at Werribee which is one of the major events in Australia for Open competition. Her 4yo mare, Revelwood Fleur, managed a very impressive 5th placing in her class which was their first outing on the big stage and confirms the potential of a strong partnership being developed. Abbie’s second horse, Rajah’s Rave, who she has had for 3 ½ years and is an 8yo gelding continues to impress as well. They competed at the Medium level of dressage during the competition and placing a very high 3rd position from 35 starters in one of the tests and finishing the Championship in equal 8th position with some very experienced combinations in the mix.

The commitment to compete at high level of competition requires riding and training every day. In between, Abbie last year completed a Diploma in Horse Business Management (and also achieved Dux of the class for 2012) at Marcus Oldham College in Geelong and now works for Mader International managing some of the marketing aspects of the business along with the web site. She also manages to squeeze in 2 other part time jobs. The attitude, hard work and vision of this team is reflective of our business and what it takes to succeed – simple, do not take things for granted and remain focussed. The future looks bright and on track – no doubt more news to come.