The Inner Eye of Dressage — Seeing Beyond the Judge’s Box with Mary Seefried

In this episode of The Equestrian’s Inner Life, Pernille sits down with Mary Seefried — a woman whose life has become an integral part of equestrian sport, both in Australia and internationally.With more than four decades of service, Mary’s journey through the horse world is nothing short of extraordinary. Beginning as a rider in the 1970s, competing across dressage, eventing, and jumping — and even completing the demanding 160-kilometre Tevis Cup in the USA — her path has been shaped by both dedication and a deep connection to the horse.It is, however, through her work as a judge, educator, and leader that Mary has made her greatest contribution. As the first Australian to become an FEI 5* dressage judge, she has officiated at the very highest levels of the sport, including Olympic Games, World Equestrian Games, World Cup Finals, and European Championships.From the judge’s box, Mary has witnessed the sport from a rare vantage point — developing a refined ability to recognise not only what is technically correct, but what is truly harmonious between horse and rider.Alongside this, her work as an FEI Judge Educator, Technical Delegate, and mentor has played a pivotal role in shaping the education and standards of dressage officials in Australia, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations. Her contribution has been recognised with her appointment as a Member of the Order of Australia and her induction into the Equestrian Queensland Hall of Fame.But beyond the titles and achievements, this conversation explores something deeper — what draws a person so fully into the world of horses, what sustains a lifelong dedication to the sport, and what truly lies at the heart of harmony between horse and rider.Resources:Connect with Mary: https://www.gg.gov.au/australian-honours-and-awardsorder-australiarecipient-profiles/mary-seefried-amConnect with Mary on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.comConnect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rramossportFollow along on the journey: https://www.pernillehogg.com/podcastMusic produced by Melissa Parris