The Road to France: Backing a Victorian Champion

Who I Am My name is Gabe Smith, and I am a dedicated equestrian athlete from Phillip Island, Victoria. For the past two years, I have held the title of Victorian Open Mounted Games Champion, remaining undefeated since moving into the senior ranks. Outside of the arena, my life is centered on the horse industry; I work as a professional track rider and am currently training to obtain my jumps jockey license. Horsemanship isn't just my sport—it is my career and my passion.

What I Am Raising Funds For I have been selected to represent the Australian Mounted Games Team at the World Championships in France this August. This is the pinnacle of our sport, where the world’s best riders compete for the ultimate title.

While my primary focus is the World Team Championship, my ranking has also qualified me for the World Pairs competition held the following week. However, the costs associated with international competition—travel, elite horse hire, and equipment—are immense. I am currently facing the difficult reality of having to withdraw from the World Pairs event due to a funding shortfall.

Why I Care Representing Australia is the greatest honor an athlete can achieve. I have put in the work—both in training and at the track—to reach this level. As a track rider, I understand the discipline and grit required to succeed in the equine industry. To step away from a world-class opportunity not because of a lack of skill, but because of a lack of finance, would be devastating. I want to show that with hard work and community support, young Australian athletes from regional areas can take on the world.

How I Plan to Make it Happen I am doing everything in my power to fund this journey myself, including working extra shifts at the track to save every cent. However, to cover the final gap for the World Pairs and the international logistics, I need your help.

By partnering with the Australian Sports Foundation (ASF), your donation is 100% tax-deductible. Your support doesn’t just fund a plane ticket; it keeps an Australian Champion on the field and ensures our flag is flown at both the Team and Individual world events.

Thank you for backing me on the road to France.