VRC Ambassador Emma Booth visits RDA centres for Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour

Emma is a two-time Australian Paralympian in the equestrian sport of para-dressage, finishing in fifth place at both the Tokyo Paralympic Games and Rio Paralympic Games. She was named as reserve for the Australian team at the Paris Paralympic Games, after a tumultuous selection campaign that saw her move to Germany and overcome fractures in her pelvis and femur earlier in 2024.

Emma attended the Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour visit to RDA Oaklands on Sunday 6 October and RDA Pakenham on Sunday 20 October, providing insights into her career and association with the VRC for all of the guests there and inspiring the next generation of riders.

An ambassador for the VRC since 2020, Emma has represented the club at Flemington race days and through her own equestrian career. She turned to para-dressage after a serious car accident in 2013 caused paraplegia, having previously competed in eventing on Off The Track thoroughbreds. The VRC has recently extended Emma’s contract for the 2024-25 season.

RDA Victoria President Tanya Twaits said that Emma’s visit was a boost for the members at the centres.

“Hearing Emma talk about all of the challenges that she’s overcome, and the lessons that she’s learned along the way, really resonated with the riders and families at RDA Oaklands and RDA Pakenham,” Mrs Twaits said.

“It is incredible to see the difference that the horses make in the lives of these riders, who live with significant health challenges, and their families, for whom the weekly RDA sessions are often the highlight of their week.”

Emma said she was inspired to meet the riders and families at both RDA events.

“It really brings home how transformative the connection with horses can be,” Emma said.

“I loved the opportunity to join this year’s Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour and share the joy of the Melbourne Cup Carnival with the community at RDA Oaklands and RDA Pakenham.”

VRC Chief Executive Officer Kylie Rogers said she was pleased to see the VRC’s ambassadors such as Emma helping to share the People’s Cup with so many people across Australia.

“It is wonderful that Emma has this opportunity to connect with the riders and families of the Riding for the Disabled centres in both Oaklands and Pakenham as part of this year’s Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour,” Ms Rogers said.

“Emma is an inspiring role model for anyone who is overcoming adversity, and we are proud to have her representing the Victoria Racing Club.”