Riding Beyond Limits: A Para-Equestrian’s Journey of Trust, Triumph, and Dreams
Soshi Yoshigoe, Para-Equestrian Athlete (Grade II)
From a pony park in Tokyo to the grand stage of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, para-equestrian athlete Soshi Yoshigoe has been forging an extraordinary path—one shaped by courage, connection, and an unbreakable bond with horses. Diagnosed with a disability as a toddler, Yoshigoe first smiled during horse therapy sessions when all other rehabilitation brought tears. Today, he rides not just with skill, but with a quiet strength and a deep respect for his equine partners. In this exclusive interview, Yoshigoe shares the journey behind the medals—the emotional highs, the unseen challenges, and his ever-growing dream of inspiring the next generation through the transformative power of horseback riding.Can you tell us about your first encounter with horses? What was it like when you rode a horse for the first time?
I first encountered a horse when I was around one year old at a neighborhood pony park where my older brother used to go. A staff member there told my mother that even children with disabilities could ride horses, so she approached a child development center in Meguro Ward that specialized in care for children with disabilities. Thanks to her efforts, a class for infants and toddlers was newly established, and that’s how I began horse therapy.
I’ve been told that while I used to cry during other types of rehabilitation, I would smile and laugh when riding a horse. After being diagnosed with a disability, the doctors told my parents I would have to live my life in a wheelchair. But when I was on a horse, it felt as if the horse was walking for me. I still remember how happy that made me.
I always try to observe my horse carefully. Just like people, each horse has its personality—some are shy, some are sensitive, and so on. The horse must get to know me as well. Building a partnership based on mutual trust takes time.
I make a point of praising the horse’s good behavior and gently correcting mistakes or misunderstandings. This process takes patience, but it’s a crucial and meaningful part of our relationship.
I always prioritize ensuring the horse never has a negative experience. Sometimes, during training, I require the horse to do more challenging tasks, but I never force it. When the horse succeeds, I make sure to praise it generously and celebrate.
I’m constantly aware of whether the horse is comfortable in daily life, relaxed, at ease, getting proper exercise, and being fed adequately. Horses are incredibly sensitive animals and are very vulnerable to stress. A healthy, well-balanced daily routine directly contributes to strong performance in competition.
The most important thing is that the horse feels willing to accept me. Horses have emotions too, and if I’m feeling nervous or anxious, they’ll pick up on that. That’s why I always try to ride with a calm and steady mindset, so the horse can feel safe. During competitions, I talk to the horse and say, “Let’s do our best together.” Somehow, I genuinely feel that the horse understands my feelings.
You participated in the Equestrian events at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games last August. What was your impression of life and the atmosphere in the Athletes' Village? Could you share any memorable experiences with other athletes from around the world?The Paris Paralympics took place at the Palace of Versailles, a dream venue for riders everywhere. Watching the palace shimmer from atop my horse was an unforgettable experience. The Athletes’ Village was very comfortable, and I made many friends. We exchanged pins and used translation apps to communicate across languages.
Some athletes, depending on their sport, had to limit their food intake due to weight restrictions. But since I don’t have to worry about weight, I really enjoyed croissants and baguettes. They were incredibly delicious.
At the Paris 2024 Games, was there a particular rival you had your eye on? And in your mind, where did you feel the real turning point or challenge was?Actually, while on the way to Paris, my horse Jabiro became ill during transit. I talked with my coach and team, and we agreed that if his condition got worse, we would have to withdraw from the competition. So instead of focusing on rivals, I was mainly concerned about Jabiro’s health. Thankfully, Jabiro recovered and was able to compete. I’m very grateful to him, my coach, and the whole support team for making that possible.
What does para-equestrian sport mean to you personally? How would you like to share its appeal with others?Although I have a physical disability, discovering horses and competing with them has enabled me to truly enjoy life. All para-equestrian athletes live with disabilities, but when we’re riding, we don’t seem limited at all. I truly love this sport, and I hope people will come watch my competitions to see its beauty firsthand.
Horses have a mysterious ability: they can sense human emotions. Being near a horse calms my heart, makes me kinder, and helps me forget the worries of daily life. In my experience, it increased the flexibility of my hip joints and improved my control over my body. Horses also enjoy being cared for, so brushing and stroking them within my ability is an excellent form of therapy in itself. Simply spending time with horses, not just riding them, brings healing. I encourage everyone to visit a place where horses are. Your heart will thank you.
Do you have any goals or dreams for the future?Yes, my next goal is to compete in the World Dressage Championships in Aachen, Germany next year and ultimately win a medal at the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics.
Experience is crucial in this sport, so I’m also dreaming big. I want to compete in ten more Paralympic Games and aim for a Guinness World Record someday.
When I was 14, it was announced that the Paralympics would be held in Tokyo, and from that moment, I dreamed of competing as an equestrian athlete. At 17, I participated in my first international competition, and at 18, I placed 6th at the World Equestrian Games in Tryon, USA. Even if you have a disability, I want you to keep dreaming and never give up. Equestrian sports not only connect horses and humans, but they also deepen the bonds among all the people who support and care for the horses.
This past April, I visited a special needs school in Gotemba City with three horses and gave a talk while allowing all the students to interact with the horses. That time with the children and the horses became a lifelong treasure for me. I want more people to come to know and appreciate this wonderful sport.
Soshi Yoshigoe
Para-Equestrian Athlete (Grade II)Affiliated with KOIZUMI Co., Ltd.
Member of Okamoto Riding Club, JAPAN
Profile
Born in Meguro Ward, Tokyo, Soshi Yoshigoe discovered the joy of riding as a toddler during a rehabilitation program at a local pony park. That experience sparked a lifelong bond with horses and a deep passion for equestrian sport.
In junior high school, when Tokyo was announced as the host city for the 2020 Paralympics, he set his sights on becoming a Paralympian. That dream became a reality as he went on to compete in both the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, representing Japan with pride. He has also achieved strong finishes in various international competitions and continues to build his presence on the world stage.
Currently, Yoshigoe is preparing for the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Games, aiming for further success and long-term excellence in the sport.
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Message
“Para-equestrian sport changed my life. It’s not only about riding. It’s about trust, connection, and the joy of growing together with your horse. I hope to inspire the next generation to dream without limits.”
