New Brand Ambassador on why she switched from shavings
We’re delighted to welcome Ellen Glover as our latest Brand Ambassador, who at just 25 years old is a National Dressage Rider, UKCC Level 3 Accredited Coach, and British Dressage Listed Judge. Having spent six years working for Carl Hester, and recognised as a British Equestrian Federation Young Professional, Ellen now runs her own yard in the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire, and coaches riders across the UK and internationally. She has achieved numerous regional titles and produced a national champion, combining top-level competition experience with a passion for developing horse-and-rider partnerships. We asked her about her riding life:
What does your usual working day look like?
My usual working day starts with riding in the morning, followed by teaching in the afternoon. My horses’ weekly schedule is carefully planned to keep them happy, fit, and progressing: Mondays and Tuesdays are for schooling, Wednesdays and Saturdays are hacking days, Thursdays and Fridays are back to schooling, and Sundays are a well-deserved day off for everyone!
Tell us about the horses that are in your care?
I’m lucky to have a lovely yard of horses, with some here for schooling and others on competition livery. Some stay for a short time, while others are with me for much longer. I genuinely enjoy getting to know each horse as an individual and working with them to maximise their potential.
My own two horses are complete chalk and cheese! They have very different personalities, but both are incredibly talented and have so much potential. Working with such different characters keeps every day interesting and reminds me that every horse benefits from a tailored approach.
What has been the highlight of your equine career to date and why?
A highlight of my equine career so far has to be winning my first Regional Championship with Holme Park Flaunt. It was completely unexpected, which made the achievement even more special. I have such fond memories of that time, and it was a real turning point for me in my career, it confirmed everything that I wanted to achieve and do!
What bedding did you use before switching to Gower Granary?
Before Gower Granary I have used a variety of bedding, but mainly shavings. I love Gower Granary bedding because it is uniquely double dedusted and milled. Having a horse on our yard who is particularly sensitive with dust I was dubious about this being a straw bedding, but I’ve found that Gower Granary is not like anything else on the market. It is so easy to muck out and the horses love laying in it! The stables are lovely and clean too and the beds look great!
Photocredit @happyhoofpics