British barrel racer

Jemma Alderson on overcoming life's challenges to enjoy the thrill of competing as a top-level polocrosse player and barrel racer - and how she turned a "naughty" horse around to become her competition partner

- Jemma Alderson

I have been profoundly deaf since birth. Through primary school I used British Sign Language with an amazing teacher’s assistant to translate for me, until I had my cochlear implant [an electronic device that provides a sense of sound] aged nine. After that I was encouraged to start speaking and lip reading. I was really behind with my speech, which made people think I was less abled.

If you were speaking to me face to face in a quiet room, I’d be able to hear everything you say, but outside in the wind, I wouldn’t. Out riding, once we pick up speed, it’s just me and the horse.

All my other senses are heightened though, so I’ll feel the vibrations of galloping hooves through the ground before people hear them. I still manage to work out where other players are around me on the polocrosse pitch as it’s a team sport and vital we all communicate.

Being deaf hasn’t affected my day-to-day life with my horses. The only thing I have to consider is my riding hat, as I have to make sure my cochlear implant still fits well. This is why I barrel race in my skull hat rather than the cowboy-style hats others ride in. And if I’m showjumping, a quick nod from the judge is helpful when the bell rings!