This year, aged 71 and coincidentally during the NSW Seniors Festival, Louise achieved the feat.
Louise and Alison grew up riding locally, but their joint senior riding title ambitions took a turn in 1984 when Alison was killed in an accident.
Louise kept striving for the goal solo, but took a break from the sport before it could be reached.
But after decades away from the ring, she returned in 2026 as determined as ever.
“It’s taken 34 years, but to be fit and still riding is a great thing,” Louise told the Pastoral Times.
Riding ‘Stilton’, a horse from Mulwala, Louise delivered a composed performance that earned strong support from spectators.
Many of them understood the history behind her return.
Louise had wins in two categories at the Deni Show - Rider 50 yrs and over and Over 50yrs Local Rider - and was also named Champion Senior Rider.
Making the feat more significant for Louise was that she had double knee surgery 11 months ago, and another surgery in November last year.
“I was overcome by the people around me,” she said.
Louise now hopes her story serves as a reminder that age and time away from the sport do not have to be barriers.
“Age is no barrier to keep doing what you love,” she said.
“I encourage people to keep doing what they enjoy.”
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