Mary Ellen Gilbert and Dublins Riverdance

Team #532 Mary Ellen Gilbert and Dublins Riverdance

Team #532: Mary Ellen Gilbert and Dublins Riverdance
Ages: 82 & 23
Combined Age: 105

Animals have always been part of my life, but that only consisted of the usual dogs and occasional house cat. Never in a million years did I think, at the age of 52, it would include owning, riding, and competing with horses.

I jumped in 110% and bought a green horse that became my best friend, teacher, and partner. We started off in the western world and as much as I would’ve liked to have ridden this seat, Dublins Riverdance (aka "Chuck") had other ideas. That’s when we changed things up, did a 180 and entered the world of dressage.

This complicated and beautiful discipline quickly became a passion and there was no looking back. Chuck excelled at this and rose to the challenge. Together, and with a lot of help, patience, wine, and carrots, we started our journey in the world of dressage. While there were hiccups and challenges with both rider and horse, somehow we made it through all these years and have cherished every one of them.

The pinnacle of my success and proudest moment was when we entered (and accomplished) our Century Club ride. Thank you to everyone who helped me along the way!

Mary Ellen and Chuck completed Intro Level Test B on October 30, 2021, for their Century Club membership.