Hi, I’m Abby Long

A 28yr old full time Eventing Rider based in South Cerney, Cirencester UK (Moved to the UK in June 2023). We made the big decision to move to the UK in January 2023 and brought over my beautiful 11yr old mare, Henton Audacious with us. We found ourselves at Little Park Farm in South Cerney, based with Australian Event rider Sammi Birch. Its been the best place to find our feet in the UK and I have learnt so much from Sammi and her right hand women, Hels. Now its time to set up on my own; at the beautiful Seven Bridges Farm in Water Eaton Swindon. I’m ready to start building myself team of horses to start 2025 off with a bang! If your wanting to join the ALE team as a potential Owner; Supporter or Sponsor don’t hesitate to get in touch.

34 double clear to finish 16th in a tough field…… I mean I couldn’t have asked for more from this mare, she gave me everything; especially on XC day. I am so proud of her and its our first MER on the way to being able to compete at a 5*!!!

We had a wicked first season here the UK! With goal just to let her settle into her new life and finish up with a confident 3-L run. We headed to Osberton International in Sep 2023 and had a great run 34.0 double clear run to end up 5th in the 3*-L class. What an amazing way to end our first season here in the UK!

Once the 2024 season finally got underway we had a great start with our first 4*-S run at the famous Bramham International Horse Trial. Finishing on a 35.0 double clear, which was the best result we could have asked for!!!!

We learnt so much from 2024 and wow did it end with a bang! For our final run of the season we competed at the Blenheim Palace International in the 4*-L. The whole year had been building up to this moment, all our hard work; up and downs; early starts; late nights and many training sessions later and we were here!

I have a drive to be the best version of my self as a rider and person; and do the best by my horses and for my country at the highest level. Daphnee is a very talented mare that I have produced myself from a 4yr old and there is still so much to come from her! With some big goals in mind I cant wait to see what the future holds for us.

Through all the highs and lows of our sports, I have come to learn that having a good support team is vital. My Parents (Clive Long & Pamela Douglas) have been my biggest supporters since day dot. They have always encouraged me to try my hardest and still to this day are my main fan crew. However since meeting my now fiancé at the end of 2017 he has taken over some of that roll. Matt is my rock, Daphnee’s biggest fan and always there when I need him. Matt also being British, has meant that since moving to the UK we have gained a whole new support team and UK family. Its been amazing to move here and not feel alone, to have love and support from everyone in Matts family. They have really made it feel like my home away from home.

I am a dedicated rider, who is passionate, driven, hard working, someone who values honesty, family and above all putting the horses best interest first. I am strong believer in enjoying what you do with your life as life is short and you have to make the most of it. I am really enjoy working with horses and seeing the hard work pay off with successfully performance. Ill be the first person to tell you that i’m very competitive but its not always about coming out on top. Sometimes its about beating your own personal best, achieving your individual goals and striving to be better than your last performance; with winning being the icing on the cake!

As a Professional rider I have a lot to offer, whether your a potential Owner; Sponsors or someone looking for help with your horse. Check it out below

I was based in New Zealand at the Dragon Equestrian Jump Park in Manakau, Horowhenua. Dragon Jump Park is an amazing equestrian facility where I grew up and my riding career started. I started riding when I was 8yrs old, and encouraged by my dads love of horses from his pony club days. Then having access to our beautiful farm in Manakau; which dad has been developing over the last 30 plus year; only added fuel to the fire when it came to my love of horses. Next grew my love for cross-country jumping logs and bushes on the farm, so we we went to our local event at Waikanae Park and have never looked back. Growing up in New Zealand its an equestrian is a special thing and the opportunities it presented me I will never forget. We have such a wonderful culture and equestrian community in NZ and I am so grateful to everyone back home who help make me the rider I am today.

Dragon Equestrian Jump Park is run by my amazing parents, Clive Long and Pamela Douglas, and provides everything you need to train your horses; coach students; run Pony Club camps or even for a weekend getaway. There facilities are available for hire via getting in contract with us on Facebook - Dragon Equestrian Jump Park.

FUN Facts and Questions!!

  • Favorite NZ Event: Matamata Horse Trial

  • Favourite UK Event: Bramham International

  • Favorite on the go snack: Berries and Yoghurt

  • Who Inspires you: Ros Canter and Jonelle Price

  • Favorite Movie: Harry Potter

  • Where in the world would you like to travel: Spain and Greece

  • Favorite Colour: Blue and pink

  • Favorite pet: My dog, Yogi

  • What would you be doing if you weren’t riding: An Equine Vet

  • Favorite Artist: Taylor Swift and Tom Grennan

  • What would be your last meal: Mac & cheese and sticky date pudding

  • Favorite Season: NZ Spring, as its my birthday in September