Featured Video: Side Saddle Jumping World Record

“Ginger Rogers did everything Fred Astaire did, except backwards and in high heels.”

This popular quote is used to illustrate how women in history often worked harder for less acclaim than their male counterparts. The same idea could apply to equestrianism.

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Women were once only permitted to ride aside, even after they began participating in the cross-country gallops and jumps of the hunt. Today, fortunately, all riders can have the benefit of a leg on each side of the horse. But some women, like Susan Oakes, keep the old side saddle tradition alive with pretty impressive results. In this video from 2013, Oakes attempts a world-record side saddle jump at 6′ 7.5″. Try that, Fred Astaire.

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View Comments

Lava says:

July 29, 2014 at 10:54 am

This is so ridiculous I don't even believe it. Why would anyone even want to do this?
Cindy says:

July 31, 2014 at 3:27 pm

WOW! Shows what balance she has! I'd get dizzy and fall off!
Marion says:

February 19, 2015 at 6:18 am

Great balance on the riders part, but why attempt this?
Annie says:

May 29, 2015 at 5:53 am

OMG Over 7 foot, great balance, but still flippin crazy to do, and side saddle besides!
Robin says:

August 16, 2016 at 5:14 am

Enjoyed it. I have a reconditioned side saddle for sale for $600 in KY call 859-498-2078 if interested.
Audrey says:

April 14, 2017 at 12:54 pm

The very end he wasn't doing good but that wall was tall!