Elizabeth Breton celebrated her 100th birthday with a horseback ride in Stanton near Broadway, where she rode a 16-hand grey horse and walked and trotted through the village. At least 20 people were present for the occasion, and cakes and champagne were served afterwards. Ms. Breton grew up near Lincoln in a rural property with a stable yard and was able to ride competently at the age of six.
After giving up horse riding for 30 years as an adult, Elizabeth Breton returned to the pursuit at the age of 70 when her son invited her to ride his horse. She credits both horse riding and her faith for reaching her centenary, recommending horse riding for “keeping you young” and providing more exercise than walking. Ms. Breton has been riding twice a week with Cotswolds Riding At Jill Carenza Equestrian at Washpool Equestrian Centre in Stanton, but now believes it is the right time to stop riding at the age of 100.
Ms. Breton quotes Horse & Hound magazine, saying “The best of my fun, I owe it to horse and hound,” and feels the same way about her own experiences with horse riding. She expresses that being on horseback provides her with more exercise than walking and allows her to stay with the horse even if it spooks. After reaching 100, she has decided to stop riding but continues to appreciate the joy and benefits that horse riding has brought her throughout her life.
