Emily O’Neill, a 16-year-old equestrian enthusiast hailing from Rahugh, Co Westmeath, undertook the arduous task of preparing a neglected rescue pony for the Dublin Horse Show which, in less than two years, qualified to compete in the prestigious event. The journey, as the young rider explained, was paved with challenges and endurance, taking a great deal of “blood, sweat, and tears”. She, with her rescue pony Da Vinci, stood amidst fierce competition, against ponies that were specifically bred for such events.
Emily and her mother Anne-Marie adopted Da Vinci from the Irish Horse Welfare Trust in Wicklow, back in 2022. At that time, the four-year-old bay-coloured gelding was malnourished and distrusting, rescued from a shed where he lived with nine other severely starved horses. His past experiences left Da Vinci quite edgy and detached.
In the beginning of 2023, Emily began working with Da Vinci. Initially, she concentrated on “breaking” him and enhancing his physical strength and stamina. Gradually, they participated in minor contests before transitioning to tackling two-meter jumps, which Da Vinci was scheduled to attempt at the upcoming RDS event that Saturday.
Qualifying for the Dublin show, with the competition name KHE Watch With Regret, was their core ambition. Emily stressed the importance of recognising the potential in rescue ponies and to not just cast them aside. A sense of fulfilment dawned upon her by offering love and care to an underprivileged pony and guiding it towards triumph. In addition, she reiterated her stance against making extravagant investments in horses that are exclusively bred for competition.
In her own words, she believed she’s always been destined to train her own horse. The anxiety of doubt was constant, as she feared that Da Vinci, her pony, wouldn’t make any progress for days, weeks, even months. Then subtle changes began to show, proof that perseverance is indispensable. Da Vinci has transformed into a cordial and sincere equine, always ready for any challenge once shown the right path.
He loves his job immensely and could be described as a ‘people’s pony’, always eager for love and warmth. The duo secured the 10th position in a competition of 20 contenders at RDS last Saturday.
Emily, soon to be stepping into her fourth Secondary School year in September, has a vision to ride throughout her life into adulthood. Her aspirations of being a veterinarian and love for horses since childhood has nudged her towards ensuring a career that keeps her in the company of animals.