As riders and horses settle into the rhythm of the Adelaide Equestrian Festival (16-19 April), Molly is quietly focused on one goal: giving her long-time partner, Zac, the confident four-star run she knows he’s capable of.
“I’ve had him about seven or eight years,” she explains of the off-the-track Thoroughbred. “We’ve just taken our time bringing him up through the grades to make sure he’s really confident. He’s always been an excellent jumper, so it’s nice be here at Adelaide with him in the CCI4*S.”
It’s a journey that began when Zac was just seven years old. After time with a Racing Victoria Acknowledged Retrainer, and another home that recognised his jumping talent, Molly was given the opportunity to take him on – a decision that has since paid off.
“He’s always had a really big jump and he’s incredibly careful,” she says. “That meant it took time for him to build confidence in himself. Now he’s really starting to come into his own.”
Building a four-star horse
While Impulsive Ways’ jumping ability has never been in doubt, producing him to four-star level has required a thoughtful and long-term approach.
“When I’m producing a horse, I’m always thinking about the long-term picture,” Molly explains. “For him, the jumping has always been the easy phase. Dressage has come in waves – it’s taken time, but it’s now at a really good point.”
Preparation for Adelaide began months ago, with a steady focus on fitness and consistency.
“We start building from January, getting them strong and fit,” she says. “We’ve done runs at events earlier in the season, plus show jumping competitions, dressage lessons and cross country schooling. It’s about putting all the pieces together.”
Adelaide’s track, often leaning towards the longer end of the format, demands that extra level of preparation.
“You do a bit more galloping to make sure they’re ready,” she adds. “It’s a proper test.”
A personality that keeps you laughing
Beyond his athletic ability, Zac is a horse full of character – something Molly knows all too well.
“He’s very funny,” she laughs. “He’s quite the comedian. He makes lots of faces and does all these mouth movements to show exactly how he feels.”
But with that personality comes a mischievous streak.
“He plays tricks on me all the time. He’ll pretend he doesn’t want to be caught, but he always will be. And if there’s a gate slightly open, he’ll sneak out – even though he doesn’t actually want to leave!”
Despite the antics, his willingness under saddle is what sets him apart.
“He’s the most generous horse. He just wants to do the job.”
Experience over expectation
While this isn’t Molly’s first trip to Adelaide, it marks an important step in Zac’s development at the level.
“He’s still quite green at four-star,” she explains. “This is about giving him experience. It’s really about a confidence-building run. Letting him see the atmosphere, the crowds, and just keep learning as he goes.”
Having previously produced horses to three-star and one other to four-star, Molly is quick to acknowledge the quality of her current partner.
“I’ve had some really lovely horses, but I don’t think any of them compare to him. It’s exciting to have a horse of this calibre – especially one that’s still developing.”
A special stage
Like many riders, Molly holds Adelaide in high regard.
“It’s probably a favourite on the calendar for everyone,” she says. “The weather helps – coming from Victoria, it’s pretty nice to be in sunshine.”
Set in the heart of the city, the event offers a unique atmosphere for both riders and spectators.
“The venue is beautiful, and the organising committee does such an incredible job. To put something like this together in a park in such a short time – everyone really appreciates it.”
As Adelaide gets underway, Molly and Zac won’t just be chasing a result – they’ll be adding another chapter to a partnership years in the making.
