International Women’s Day Feature: Rebecca Adams

March 8, 2025

This International Women’s Day, we’re shining a light on the remarkable women who have shaped the equestrian world and the deep connections that tie them together. The equestrian community is built on passion, perseverance, and partnership—not just between riders and their horses, but among the incredible women who inspire and support one another.

At the heart of this is a beautiful multi-generational bond: Rebecca Adams, Coordinator-in-Charge for the Perth Royal Show Horse Competitions; Louise Crosby from Horsewest; and Lucy, the youngest rider in their crew. These three women are connected through their love of horses and, in particular, their shared experiences with Thomas the Tank, a Shetland pony cross owned by Laura Mercer. Thomas has been a constant in their lives for decades, playing a role in their equestrian journeys and creating unforgettable memories.

We asked Rebecca Adams, our Coordinator-in-Charge for Horse Competitions, a few questions to reflect on her experiences and the role of women in the equestrian world.

“I have been so lucky to have met, ridden with, and been coached by some incredible women in my time. Each and every one has taught me something—not just about horses but about life. What stands out to me the most is that success, whether in the saddle or anywhere else, comes from determination and hard work more than talent or luck. Sometimes things go wrong, but what counts is how you get back up and move forward,” Rebecca says.

Equestrian sports hold a unique place in the sporting world, offering a rare arena where men and women compete on equal footing.

For Rebecca, this equality is one of the sport’s greatest strengths:

“Something I have always loved about equestrian is that it is one of the few sports where men and women compete directly against each other. In a world where little girls are often told they aren’t as fast or as strong as boys, a sport where everyone is equal is incredibly empowering. Although the upper levels are still quite male-dominated, it’s great to see more and more women taking their place on the podium.”

Beyond the riders themselves, horses play a special role in shaping these experiences.

Rebecca shares her appreciation for mares in particular: “Lots of people don’t like mares—they say they’re too ‘temperamental’ or ‘hormonal’—but I firmly believe that with a mare, it’s a true partnership. If they trust you, they’ll give you everything.”

This International Women’s Day, we celebrate the women who make the equestrian world stronger, the horses who shape their journeys, and the unbreakable bonds that tie them all together.