Prepare for some adorable double-takes at this summer’s British Showjumping national championships! Identical twins Daisy and Isabelle James-Wright from Cowbridge in the Vale of Glamorgan are about to turn heads—and they’re doing it in style. These two rising stars have just qualified for the Stepping Stones final at the National Agricultural and Exhibition Centre in Stoneleigh come August, and their story is absolutely heartwarming.
How It All Started: Mom’s Return Sparked a Passion
The twins’ journey into the saddle began when their mum, Kath James, decided to make a comeback to competitive riding after taking a five-year break. An accomplished horsewoman herself—Kath has competed up to 1.30m level—her renewed enthusiasm proved infectious. Watching mum get back into the sport inspired Daisy and Issy to learn to ride, and the rest is history in the making.
With just 18 months of riding experience under their belts, these young riders are already making waves. Last Christmas, they received their very own competition ponies as gifts, and not long after their first affiliated competition, both sisters earned their double clears to secure spots in the nationals. Talk about making an impressive impression!
Meet Their Equine Partners
Daisy partners with Whiskey Joe, a talented 14-year-old skewbald gelding, while Issy has teamed up with Back In The Black, a 10-year-old mare imported from Ireland. These ponies have clearly found the perfect riders in the enthusiastic twins, creating partnerships that showcase the dedication and hard work both girls are putting into their riding.
Full Commitment: Self-Sufficiency and Hard Work
One thing that really stands out about Daisy and Isabelle is their genuine commitment to horsemanship. According to their proud mum, “They do everything themselves, including mucking out, grooming and feeding.” This level of responsibility and hands-on care is the hallmark of true horsewomen in the making.
Balancing Multiple Talents with Equestrian Dreams
If their story wasn’t impressive enough already, get this: the twins are also gifted ballerinas who have been invited to audition for the prestigious Royal Ballet School. On top of riding, they excel at athletics, skiing, gymnastics, and swimming. It’s safe to say these young athletes are packed with talent!
However, the family made a smart decision to focus their energy. “We told them that they couldn’t do everything, so they’ve chosen to ride and we do it as a family,” explains Kath. This prioritization shows the twins’ genuine passion for horses and their commitment to becoming serious riders.
Dreams of Grand Prix Success
Perhaps the most adorable detail? The twins are already saving their prize money—in a unicorn money box, naturally—toward a future Grand Prix horse. Their ambitious goals and serious work ethic suggest they might just achieve them. As their mum joked with a laugh, “They tell me they are saving for a Grand Prix horse. I’m hoping they might buy me one!”
With their determination, family support, natural talent, and the perfect partnership with their ponies, Daisy and Isabelle James-Wright are ones to watch. The British Showjumping community should brace itself for the double trouble heading to Stoneleigh this August. These identical twins are proof that the future of equestrian sport is in very capable hands!