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Behind the Stable Door - Grace Kay, The Girl Can Ride

“Behind the Stable Door” is a new series focused on the back story of riders and their horses that have enjoyed success in major events.

A star was born at the recent Melbourne International Three Day Event at Werribee Park. 23-year-old Grace Kay caught the eye not only due to her Hollywood looks and bright gold jodhpurs but because of her genuine talent as an event rider.

Until now, Grace has been more widely known in dressage circles but 18 months ago she decided to try her hand at the more adventurous three-phase discipline and in that short time she has made a few good judges sit up and take notice. “I have always been right into the dressage but this is a really enjoyable outlet and I am having a great time doing it,” said Grace.

Riding her giant 17hh chestnut gelding Celerity Faberge, Grace finished on her dressage score (44.80) to win the CCI1* class at MI3DE. It’s her greatest triumph since focussing on eventing. “I am stoked. It was a big relief. It was a bit nerve-wracking going in but he felt really good and it turned out well so I am very happy.”

Grace, who started riding at the age of two, has been associated with nine-year-old ‘Fab’ since plucking him out of a paddock from his breeders Sonya and Barry MacDonald when he was just six months old. “He’s developing into a beautiful horse and I absolutely love working with him. We’ve been eventing for 18 months and really enjoying it. It’s not long for both of us but we love it.”

Grace’s eventing coach is top NSW rider Andrew Barnett who won last week’s MI3DE CCI2*. “Andrew is helping me and the more I learn the more I appreciate it as a sport,” she said.

‘Fab’ will enjoy a well-earned rest now and Grace hopes to test him at 2* later this year so keep a watch out on cross-country courses for a big bold chestnut with a talented rider on board wearing a distinctly coloured pair of jodhpurs. “It all started when I was playing around with my project ponies and they were really bright so mum could see me. It started as a running joke as I like to find different things to wear.

"I think it’s nice to have a bit of pizazz here and there,” said Grace.