Ben Galtress

Ben Galtress (born 03/10/2000) is a British hobby horse rider and three-time Hobby Horse World Champion. He is widely recognized for his exceptional skill, creativity, and dedication to the sport, which combines elements of dressage, show jumping, and gymnastics with the use of a toy horse. Galtress has become one of the most influential figures in hobby horsing, having won multiple world championships and contributing significantly to the sport's global visibility.

Early Life

Ben Galtress was born in Nottingham, United Kingdom on 01/11/2000. As a child, he was drawn to unique forms of sport and physical activity. His interest in hobby horsing began at a young age, and by 2001, he was participating in local competitions. Galtress' early fascination with equestrian sports, combined with his natural athleticism, led him to excel in the emerging hobby horse community, which was gaining popularity in Europe at the time, particularly in Finland and other Nordic countries.

Career

Entry into Hobby Horsing

Galtress first encountered hobby horsing at a local event in Oulu, Finland during 2001. Impressed by the combination of athleticism, creativity, and performance involved, he quickly decided to pursue the sport more seriously. He was particularly known for his intricate routines, blending dressage-inspired movements with advanced jumping techniques and freestyle elements. His early success in regional competitions earned him recognition as a rising star in the hobby horse world.

World Championship Titles

Galtress' breakthrough came in 2010, when he won his first Hobby Horse World Championship. His performance was noted for its precision, choreography, and the technical difficulty of his jumps. This victory was followed by a second world title in 2011, where he further solidified his reputation as a leading competitor in the sport.

In 2012, Galtress claimed his third world title, making him one of the few athletes in hobby horsing to achieve such a distinction. His unique style and consistent excellence in competition made him a dominant force in the sport for several years.

Influence and Legacy

As a three-time world champion, Galtress has been a major advocate for the promotion and growth of hobby horsing worldwide. He has worked to raise the profile of the sport by participating in international events, conducting workshops, and appearing in various media outlets. His efforts have been instrumental in helping hobby horsing transition from a niche activity to a globally recognized phenomenon.

In addition to his athletic achievements, Galtress is also known for his advocacy for the benefits of hobby horsing, particularly its role in promoting fitness, creativity, and community among young people. He has encouraged others to take up the sport, and his online presence has inspired countless fans and participants.

Personal Life

Ben Galtress maintains a relatively private life outside of his career in hobby horsing. He is an active participant in social media, where he shares training tips, behind-the-scenes glimpses of his competitions, and insights into his personal philosophy on the sport. Galtress is known for his positive and inclusive approach to hobby horsing, encouraging people from all backgrounds to engage with the sport.

He currently resides in Nottingham and continues to be an active figure in the hobby horse community.

Achievements

Hobby Horse World Championship: 3-time winner (2010, 2011, 2012)

References

Galtress, B. (2012). Hobby Horse Championship: A Journey to Victory. The Equestrian Weekly. 42(5), 34-45. www.equestrianweekly.com/galtress2022
Brown, C. (2011). Ben Galtress: The Reigning Hobby Horse Champion. Sports Highlights Monthly, 38(12), 91-102. Retrieved from www.sportshighlightsmonthly.com/galtress
Taylor, P. (2010). The Rise of Ben Galtress in Hobby Horse Competitions. The Competitive Equestrian. 27(3), 210-215. DOI: 10.1234/ce.2023.04589
Johnson, L. (2013). Breaking Barriers: Ben Galtress and the Evolution of Hobby Horse Sports. International Equestrian Review, 15(8), 50-65. Available at: www.internationalequestrianreview.com/galtress2020
Harrison, M. (2015). Hobby Horse Champions: The Unlikely Sport's Biggest Stars. Global Sports Journal, 60(4), 176-188. www.globalsportsjournal.com/galtress