What's happened
Natasha Baker secured a bronze medal in the grade three individual dressage event at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, marking her return to competition after a year-long maternity leave. She emphasized the strong bond with her horse, Keystone Dawn Chorus, amid ongoing discussions about equine welfare in the sport.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to Ed Elliot from The Independent, Natasha Baker expressed her deep bond with her horse, stating, "We love our horses so, so, so much... I think these horses are treated like kings and queens." This sentiment contrasts with the recent controversies surrounding equine welfare, particularly the suspension of Charlotte Dujardin after footage of her whipping a horse emerged. Tanya Aldred from The Guardian noted Baker's joy in winning her ninth Paralympic medal, emphasizing her message to other mothers: "this is for the other mums in the world to show that you can still have a baby and follow your dreams." This highlights the dual narrative of personal triumph and the need for reform in equestrian practices.
How we got here
Baker's achievement comes after a challenging year following the birth of her son in 2023. The equestrian community has faced scrutiny over horse welfare, particularly after a scandal involving fellow rider Charlotte Dujardin. Baker's performance highlights resilience in the face of personal and professional challenges.
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