Customer Reviews

Equal to the Challenge: Pioneering Women of Horse Sports

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I bought this book thinking that it would just be nice to have on the shelf since I have 'always loved horses.' It turned out to be an unexpected pleasure to read. Although I have read many horse-related books I was very unaware of the feminine history in this field. This book filled a knowledge gap. I am 47 and have owned a horse only since my early 30's. Yet I felt very connected to these women who were able to take their dreams so far. They are my new heroines! The photographs are also terrific. My favorite is one of an 80+ yr. old woman obviously enjoying an active side saddle ride. Thank you, Ms. Burke, for this contribution.

I found this book at a second-hard store, and am only sorry it wasn't a book store so the author would've benefitted from my purchase.

This is an informative, illuminating, and well-written book. I've been a horsewoman all my life, yet till I read this book I had no idea about the level of discrimination against female riders by the male-dominated equestrian establishment. Not only in Thoroughbred racing but in show jumping, eventing, and even dressage. Till as recently as the 1970s, men believed women lacked the strength and endurance to compete in equestrian sports. It took a bunch of determined and dedicated women riders to make them realize it doesn't take muscle to get a horse to do what you want it to do. It takes patience and intuition, which is why women excel at a sport that requires the meeting of two minds.

Girls and young women who ride today may not realize it, but they owe their place in equestrian sports to these pioneer women.