Mother-Daughter Duo Riding Side-by-Side

Dressage competitor Joelene Washington-King and her daughter Charlotte share a bond built on trust, dedication, and a mutual love for horse riding. Their shared passion gives them something rare; quality time together, side-by-side in the saddle and beyond the stables.

Joelene grew up around horses and rode until she was 21 years old. After stepping away from riding for 17 years, it was her daughter’s fascination with dorses that drew her back in. Inspired by old photos of her mum on horseback, and with an aunty involved in breeding horses, Charlotte’s interest in horse riding began when she was a toddler.

At nearly 5 years old, Charlotte finally saddled up for her first riding lesson, which would end up being the spark that began an incredible journey between mother and child. What made it even more special was that it wasn’t just any lesson, it was a special mother-daughter class run by Karelia Riding Instruction.

“Our first mother-daughter ride at Karelia was just… joyous,” Joelene beamed as she recalled the memory.

“In most sports, as a parent, you cheer your kids on from the sidelines. But with horse riding, it’s something we can do together,” she added.

Since then, the duo has shared countless hours training, riding, and caring for their horses. Together, they have embraced more than just horses, deepening their relationship beyond the stables.

“Because we spend so much time with the horses together, I’ve learnt how to effectively communicate with Charlotte. And she’s more open with me because we have that strong pillar to lean on,” Joelene shared.

Reflecting on their journey, Joelene said “We’ve developed a close bond. We both understand how much work goes into training horses, so we can celebrate every little achievement together, and understand each other’s challenges.”

One of Joelene’s most memorable moments with her daughter was when they completed Charlotte’s first 20km endurance ride together.

“She was only 10 at the time, and there were real mental battles she had to work through. From the little things like eating the proper food to endure such a long ride. But she pushed on and finished,” explained Joelene.

“That taught both of us something about perseverance and belief,” Joelene added.

Outside of the arena, Joelene balances two jobs and also trains and judges dogs. Balancing it all hasn’t been easy.

“There are long days, and you have to forgive yourself when you’re not on top of everything. But I prioritise what brings me joy, and being out in nature with Charlotte and the horses is one of the most peaceful, grounding parts of my week even if we’re just brushing the horses in the rain,” Joelene said.

“It’s real quality time with my daughter,” she summarised.

With Mother’s Day approaching, Joelene has a heartfelt message for other mums: “Shared hobbies? Do it! The time is gold, and you don’t get it back. Even when it’s hard or frustrating, you and your kids grow. It makes it so worthwhile.”

“Just because you’re a mum doesn’t mean you have to stay on the sidelines. Doing what makes you happy makes you a better parent,” Joelene shared.

Looking ahead to the Australian Masters Games in October, Joelene is excited to get back into the competition ring, with Charlotte cheering her on.

“We may not have the fanciest horses, but they reflect the love, work, and time we’ve put in,” Joelene said.

“But I’m excited to prove that mothers can thrive in their chosen sports,” she concluded.

What started as a curious nudge from a horse-loving child became a return to the sport for Joelene, and the beginning of a lifelong journey between mother and daughter.

Do something for you! Find your sport and register for the Australian Masters Games in Canberra, 18 – 25 October 2025.