Horse lover Kymm Anderson, who has just launched a new business, describes her ‘soul-destroying’ experiences in the equestrian world, and speaks about her mission to raise mental health awareness. Hilary Scott writes...
For people suffering from depression, the task of getting out of bed can be onerous. However, when Kymm's alarm goes off at 5am, the cure is waiting for her at the stables.
In May 2018, Kymm found Buzz, an ex-racing horse, who she credits for bringing her back to life.
She says: “The work required daily is what makes me tick, it really helps me switch off and relax, so I started doing my friends’ stables too.
“People think I’m strange for loving those types of jobs but it does help me. Even when I’m grooming or pulling his mane or getting him ready to ride, all these little things make a huge difference to my mood and how I’m feeling.”
The 43-year-old has been riding since she was a toddler but says she almost gave up her passion due to social class negativity associated with the sport.
“I don’t think it’s unfair to say that the equestrian world can be classed as fairly ‘judgey’ – heaven knows I’ve been part of it long enough,” says Kymm.
“The feeling of not being good enough, not elite enough because you don’t have expensive brands, it’s soul-destroying, and many times I’ve considered giving up.
“We all share the love for our horses and the sport so why should we be segregated and judged [and] your ability and talent unnoticed because you don’t have access to top trainers or competitions or the top branded expensive clothing and tack,” she said.
“I’ve been to a few little training sessions and due to other people there I’m very self-conscious – I often felt like I shouldn’t be there.
“They may have top-of-the-range saddles – and all the best riding wear and hats – but that doesn’t make them any better at what we do.
“At a show, a competitor shouldn’t be questioned over their tack by a judge, they should be judged on the criteria for that specific class, not if their saddle is leather or synthetic, cost £2,000 or £50.
“Sadly this is one of the downsides, and not being able to afford the things or brands that others can have made me feel like I’m not an ‘equestrian’ – just someone who has a horse.”
This dark moment could have been Kymm’s downfall, but it ended up being the inspiration behind her new equestrian clothing range – Cuddy Equestrian.
“The business has come from a long-standing dream of mine to have my own horsey-based business, but it also comes from years of struggling with mental health issues and wanting to raise awareness of this in the equestrian world.
“Although the horse has kept me focused and given me a reason to get out of bed in the morning, being an equestrian has its challenges due to the competitiveness and judgemental tendencies associated with it, and I want to break away from this.”
She explained: “I wanted to create a brand of stylish, practical, functional and affordable clothing to suit any budget, discipline and level but, at the same time, bring mental health awareness to the forefront of the equestrian community.”
Kymm’s ambition for Cuddy Equestrian goes beyond affordable clothing.
“Our social media pages are somewhere I’d like to class as a hub for people to share stories, knowledge and advice for others, not just on equestrianism, but somewhere you can speak to others.
“We should help each other instead of tearing people down, boost confidence instead of knocking it. I want to build a #cuddyequestrian community filled with positivity, fun and inclusion.
"By doing this I hope to inspire others to reach out for help and not feel insecure or judged.
“I hope to have my logo noticed and associated as the brand who wants to give back to the community, helps support mental health, somewhere to just be you, have fun and enjoy your horse – in some incredibly cute clothing!
“My pom pom hats are selling well and for every hat sold, I am donating £1 to a mental health charity.
"I have so many ideas to take this business to a whole new place to help others."
Her business has launched online, but one day, in the not too distant future, Kymm hopes people will be trotting into a Cuddy Equestrian shop.
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