Hartpury University graduate and international eventer Dani Cuomo gave an inspiring presentation to Equine Academy students about how they can achieve their personal goals and ambitions in sport and business.
Dani, who competed for Great Britain three times in Junior and Young Rider European Championships, completed a BSc (Hons) Equine Science degree at Hartpury alongside being a member of its renowned Equine Academy.
A fully qualified McTimoney animal practitioner and freelance riding instructor, she now runs her own treatment and riding practice, Dani Cuomo Equestrian, in Derbyshire.
Dani said: “I was really looking forward to speaking with the students and sharing my stories and experience.
“Hartpury was such a huge part of my life, building my career and giving me the qualifications I needed to progress onto my masters degree.
“Throughout my time at Hartpury I was offered continuous support for my competing whilst attending lectures and sitting my exams, and I felt like I wanted to give something back to the students that are studying there now.
“Of course, there are times when times get tough when you are studying as well as trying to compete at a high level, so I wanted to give the academy the confidence that it is possible to do it all so long as you are dedicated and manage your time well.
“I feel privileged and honoured that even now, 15 years since starting my studies at Hartpury, they still want stay involved with me and follow my progress.
“I have invited all the students within the academy to get in touch should they have any questions about managing their time or any advice about their horses, physio exercises, strengthening or rehabilitation.”
Lizzel Winter, Director of the Equine Academy at Hartpury, said Dani’s frank and open presentation was full of passion, determination and encouragement.
“We were so thrilled that Dani was able to find time within her busy schedule to spend time with the Equine Academy,” she said.
“She spoke honestly about successfully representing her country in the sport of eventing, completing her degree at Hartpury and maintaining a social life while keeping a clear eye and focus on her future career, goals and business plans.
“Dani encourages a can-do attitude, making the most of every opportunity offered to her and she explained what a massive help Hartpury had been in her journey.
“After the presentation, Dani spent a long time chatting to the students, answering questions and offering ongoing help and support.
“Dani is an absolute pleasure to know and work with and Hartpury are extremely proud that she is part of the Hartpury alumni family.
“She has a very clear and keen desire to help others and she is an absolute credit to herself, her family and Hartpury.”
The Hartpury Equine Academy has a proven reputation for supporting and developing talented young riders, both in their competition career and academically.
Riders are offered competition support for high-profile events, visits to top-level riders and trainers’ yards, guest speakers and access to a range of professional support services, including psychology, strength and conditioning and physiotherapy.
Hartpury’s world-class facilities include the Equine Therapy Centre, which features a high-speed water treadmill, and the Margaret Giffen Centre for Rider Performance incorporating a £90,000 riding simulator and a state-of-the-art strength and conditioning suite.
Picture: Dani Cuomo competing (credit: Alex Colquhoun)
