Vicky Lawrie
Garryowen winner - Vicky Lawrie has wanted to be a competitive horse rider her entire life. From the age of four she was riding horses on her family’s rural property in Queensland.
Vicky Lawrie has wanted to be a competitive horse rider her entire life. From the age of four she was riding horses on her family’s rural property in Queensland. By the time she was 14, Vicky was determined to one day compete for the coveted Garryowen at the Royal Melbourne Show. She remembers reading ‘Hoofs and Horns’ as a child and seeing the ‘glorious and glamorous photo of the winner of the Garryowen’. Her fascination grew from there.
Vicky began competing at the Royal Melbourne Show from 18 years of age, but it was hard work.
I was 18 I think, yes, I was 18. I was very fascinated by the whole thing because I have to say in those days the numbers were huge, a lot, lot more people. The Garryowen was mysterious to me because it always had this story of Violet Murrell … In those days I didn't have my own horses, I always rode for someone else, and it was always difficult … that made me more determined.
As soon as she could, Vicky moved to Victoria and bought her own horse. Vicky’s obsession with winning the Garryowen resulted in her taking away the prize an amazing six times. As well as the incredible amount of hard work she has put in over the years, Vicky believes a large part of her success is her enjoyment of the competition.
I loved it, it never became --- some of these girls [would say], ‘Oh I'm going to be sick! Oh I'm going to wet my pants!’ I think, why would you do that? People don't get enough enjoyment, they don't smile, they don't breathe, so it never performs. I just said, ‘You've got to enjoy it more. It's more fun really, you've got to have a few laughs.’
As well as being an avid competitor, Vicky has worked tirelessly behind the scenes helping to judge and train other competitors, together with representing riders across Australia on a number of different committees. But despite the countless wins she’s had at shows and competitions across Australia, Vicky still counts winning the Garryowen as one of her greatest achievements.
I still say it’s the greatest event I’ve ever won. It’s just something every girl wants to win.