Barastoc Junior Squad: Meet Louisa Toose

“I really enjoy being part of the Barastoc Junior Squad, as it is such a supportive group of like-minded people who all want the best for their horses..."

Adele Severs

Published 17 May 2023

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Louisa Toose. Image supplied.

Barastoc Junior Squad: Meet Louisa Toose

In August 2016, Barastoc launched the Barastoc Junior Squad program to riding enthusiasts aged 13 – 18 who are passionate about riding.

The Barastoc Junior Squad aims to teach, inspire and guide young equine enthusiasts. The squad program assists young riders in gaining the experience needed to support a commercial sponsorship in adulthood, if it is desired or needed, as well as provide a solid understanding of feeding their horses. Each year Barastoc welcomes 20-30 new young riders to be part of the team.

Here, we catch up with young eventer Louisa Toose…

“My name is Louisa Toose and I am proudly sponsored by Barastoc Horse. I ride a 15yo OTT, named Play in the Arc, affectionately known as Smartie. We do 95cm eventing together, and this year I’m hoping to get out and about a bit more and make the move up to 1*. Smartie is such a kind, honest and affectionate horse who really is my best mate!

“I really enjoy being part of the Barastoc Junior Squad, as it is such a supportive group of like-minded people who all want the best for their horses. I have not only learnt an incredible amount about horse nutrition, but through the monthly room chats, we have been fortunate enough to meet a wide range of high-level riders. In this, I have found it interesting learning about these riders’ roles in the equestrian community as well as the day-to-day information such as preparation for comps.

“Someone I look up to within the equestrian community is Amanda Ross, who we met in one of the monthly room chats with Barastoc. I admire the fact that she has such a thorough dedication to the sport and is so meticulous in her riding.

“My coaches Sue Nevett and Yona Lloyd are also big role models to me and such positive influences on my riding as they both are so committed to their horses and always have time to help and support me as a rider.

“My sneaky tip, especially coming into bot fly season, is using a wet steel wool sponge to rub along the horse’s legs. I find this is the best way to get rid of the eggs!

“Thank you so much Barastoc and Equestrian Life for this opportunity!”