Baker Celebrates ‘Practically Perfect’ Horse After Winning Bronze Medal

Natasha Baker hailed her ‘practically perfect’ horse after winning para dressage bronze just one year after giving birth to her son.

Baker’s return to the competitive arena has been nothing short of inspiring. After a remarkable 20-month absence from para dressage to welcome her first child, Joshua, Baker’s surprise selection for the Paris 2024 Games ignited a whirlwind of emotions. “It’s amazing to think this time last year I wasn’t even riding,” Baker reflected, “I’d just had him, and if you’d told me I’d get selected for these Games back in the winter, I’d have said you were lying.” Her journey speaks volumes about resilience and determination, emblazoning the narrative that anything is possible with hard work and passion.

On a day filled with triumph for ParalympicsGB dressage, Baker secured a spot on the podium alongside Georgia Wilson, who later followed suit with grade two bronze. Baker’s achievement marked her ninth Paralympic medal, a testament to her undying spirit in the sport. “I’m really pleased; I just wanted a relaxed test,” she admitted, an aura of satisfaction radiating from her as she gracefully navigated the ring.

Overcoming Adversity

Scoring an impressive 73.167 per cent, Baker made her mark in the Individual Freestyle Event, where USA’s Rebecca Hart claimed gold and the Netherlands’ Rixt van der Horst took silver. Each percentage point not only reflected her skill but underscored a story of perseverance. The pressure of returning to compete after such a significant life change only added to the narrative of triumph against the odds.

“As I went in, I started to well up. I just needed to put it out of my mind and get on with the job in hand,” Baker shared, candidly revealing the emotional gravity she carried into the ring. It is not just about the scores or medals; it’s about the journey—one filled with challenges, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication.

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But among all the focus on her performance, Baker was quick to recognise the unsung hero behind her success: her horse, Dawn Chorus. “She was amazing, and I trust her with my life. We have the most amazing relationship,” Baker expressed. The bond between horse and rider is often likened to a dance, where trust and harmony create an unbreakable connection—one that Baker and Dawn Chorus embody beautifully. With a twinkle in her eye, Baker referred to her companion as her “Mary Poppins,” declaring, “She’s practically perfect in every way.”

This metaphor not only illustrates how deeply entwined their partnership has become but also emphasises the critical role of equine athletes in para dressage. Horses are not just participants but pivotal elements that elevate performances and create unique, magical moments. Baker’s heartfelt gratitude towards Dawn Chorus is reminiscent of key Paralympic moments where athletes laud their support systems, showcasing the multi-faceted nature of elite sports.

The Road Ahead

Baker’s bronze medal is emblematic of the broader shift in para sports—where personal milestones are just as celebrated as podium finishes. Her story highlights a significant trend within the Paralympic community: athletes returning to competition can find renewed purpose and achieve greatness after life-changing events like childbirth. It provokes thought about how we define success; is it merely the medal count, or is it the story of resilience woven into each performance?

Hours later, as the sun set on the day’s events, Georgia Wilson matched her impressive Tokyo 2020 result by securing an individual grade two bronze. This development was yet another testament to the strength of ParalympicsGB’s dressage team, showcasing a brilliance that transcends competition. Each medal becomes a chapter in a broader narrative of triumph over adversity, reinforcing the ethos that exists within the Paralympic movement.

This perspective invites us to revel in the achievements that go beyond the finish line. As Baker and Wilson’s stories unfold, they inspire not only their fellow athletes but also communities across the UK, urging individuals to embrace challenges with open hearts and relentless determination.

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The Paris 2024 Games are beckoning, and as we witness these exemplary athletes redefine the limits of perseverance and ambition, it raises a pertinent question: What will their next chapter be? With determination, camaraderie, and the indomitable spirit of their horses, the future of para dressage glistens like a well-earned medal, ready to shimmer on the world stage.