We're thrilled to introduce you to Vicki Hoban, an extraordinary Irish para-equestrian who is not only making waves in the equestrian world but also championing greater inclusion and accessibility in para sports. Vicki's story is one of resilience, passion, and the unwavering belief that "everybody is an equestrian body."
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Meet Vicki Hoban
Vicki lives with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), a hereditary connective tissue disorder that affects collagen production. This means she faces daily challenges with joint hypermobility, skin hyperextensibility, and tissue fragility. Despite these hurdles, her passion for promoting equality and inclusion in para sports shines brightly.
Vicki owns two incredible horses, Beltrim Sweet Clover and Murphy’s Law, and has her sights set on competing in the Los Angeles Paralympics. Her journey has been featured in prominent media outlets such as Horse & Hound, RTÉ, BBC, and the Motability Scheme, helping to raise awareness about inclusion in equestrian sports.
However, Vicki faces significant challenges due to the current classification system in para dressage. The Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI) does not recognize EDS as a classifiable condition, making it incredibly difficult for her to compete at the para level. This is an issue she is determined to challenge, advocating for the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) and other governing bodies to update their classification criteria to be more inclusive.
Through her advocacy, Vicki hopes to inspire others and drive necessary changes within the equestrian community, championing the belief that everyone deserves the chance to participate in this incredible sport.
How AV Edge Products with EF Technology Have Helped
Vicki's experience with AV Edge products and EF Technology has been transformative, both for herself and her horses.
"As someone with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), maintaining stability and balance is a daily challenge—not just for me, but for my horses as well," Vicki explains. "When I started using AV Edge products with EF Technology, I was amazed at the difference they made, not only for me but also for my horses’ performance and well-being."
For Vicki, the technology improved her stability in the saddle, allowing her to maintain her position and ride with greater confidence. "I felt more in control, which is a game-changer when dealing with joint instability and muscle fatigue," she says.
Vicki also introduced AV Edge products to her horses, with remarkable results. "They seemed more balanced, more relaxed, and even their movement felt smoother," she notes. The products helped improve her horses' posture, reduce stiffness, and enhance their overall comfort.
Vicki emphasizes the importance of consulting with professionals before trying anything new, acknowledging that every horse and rider is different. However, for her, AV Edge products with EF Technology have been invaluable, supporting both her and her horses to perform at their best.
Upcoming Competitions and Events
Vicki is currently preparing for the RDA National Championships, scheduled for July 11–13, 2025, at Hartpury College, Gloucester. To qualify for nationals, she will participate in the Northern Ireland Regional Qualifier this year, with the date yet to be confirmed. Additionally, she will compete in online equestrian leagues throughout 2025 to stay connected and maintain her competitive edge.
Vicki is excited to showcase her abilities and continue advocating for inclusivity in para-equestrian sports.
Follow Vicki's Journey
You can follow Vicki's journey and support her advocacy on her social media platforms:
Instagram: @vickihobanparaequestrian
Threads: @vickihobanparaequestrian
TikTok: @vickihobanparaequestrian
