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Donations are needed to support and keep Nipperess’ Paralympics campaign alive and can be made via Kate's - Go Fund Me page

By Phillip O'Brien

Competing at the 2024 Paralympics remains the target for horsewoman Kate Nipperess who competed in her first National level competition at Boneo Park, Victoria on the 15th and 16th April.

Nipperess celebrated success at the Federation of Equestrian International-run event, going on to winning Champion of her grade.

“My new horse was fantastic - we scored 66 percent on finals day and won Champion of our grade,” Nipperess said.

Kate Nipperess aboard SW Cruiser. Image by OneEyedFrog Photography

She competed with her new seven-year-old, SW Cruiser, a warmblood gelding whose recent purchased was made possible from fundraising efforts.

“I feel so lucky to have this horse which would not have been possible without the sponsorship of Racing NSW and other racing industry donors,” Nipperess said.

“I am extremely grateful for everyone’s support and I cannot thank all donors enough.”

After suffering a career-ending accident at Warwick Farm in 2016, the former jockey has already overcome the odds to climb back in the saddle and remains determined as ever to compete in the 2024 Paralympics in Paris.

“It’s been my main focus and drive which is why I am training hard multiple times a week and attending regular state training clinics,” she said.

“I have the right horse now to help with my campaign.

“SW Cruiser is a lovely gelding and is trained to elementary level dressage who Australian Para-Equestrian coach, Julia Battams, believes will be very competitive on an international stage.”

Trust between rider and horse is crucial, with “Cruiser” fulfilling all expectations.

“I feel that to ride as a paraplegic I need to have an even higher level of trust in the horse that I'm riding than I've ever had before,” Nipperess said. “And, Cruiser is a horse that I trust wholeheartedly - he is a very special animal.

“He has been trained by Courtney Larard for the past 18 months who has been extremely supportive of my new partnership with Cruise, and, has helped me immensely with the transition. Cruiser’s breeder Hamish Barker has also been supportive in following our progress.”

Nipperess’ campaign continues, with her next competition scheduled in June.

“I’ll be competing in dressage comps in June, with Para classes at Hawkesbury and Willinga Park,” she said. “My next Federation of Equestrian International comp will be at Boneo again in October, followed by Tamworth in November.”

Donations are needed to support and keep Nipperess’ Paralympics campaign alive and can be made via Kate's - Go Fund Me page