A grandmother has defied the odds to achieve her childhood dream of reaching the top of the show jumping world.
Linda Mortimer, 55, who lives in Woodbridge, and previously owned Mortimers Estate Agents, fulfilled her lifelong ambition by riding to second place at Addington Equestrian Centre, competing against some of the sport’s top riders.
Mrs Mortimer, who now works alongside her husband and son booking survey jobs, said: "I lived my childhood dream at 55.
"I’m not a great rider, I’m a happy hacker with a dream. I pushed myself way out of my comfort zone and look what happened.
"I’d like my story to be an inspiration to anyone young or old, don’t ever give up on your dreams.
"I don’t have all the posh gear, my riding boots have a hole in them, you don’t need to be rich, you don’t need to be a perfect rider, you just need to dream big."
Her passion for horses began at the age of two.
Her grandfather worked with Suffolk Punch horses, and at age nine, she was given her first horse – a three-year-old thoroughbred mare.
However, she gave up riding at 21 to focus on her career and raising a family.
It wasn’t until 2020, with her children grown and savings set aside, that she was able to return to her childhood passion and purchase a horse of her own.
That horse was H III, affectionately known as Hugo – a quirky and challenging horse from Grand Prix show jumping lines.
Ms Mortimer said: "I’ve had Hugo for six years.
"I have broken more bones on him than any horse I’ve ever been on. My worst was when I broke my shoulder, collarbone, three ribs, and herniated a disc in my spine, but it didn’t put me off."
With support from her local yard in Woodbridge and encouragement from Fiona Goldsmith, she regained her confidence and made the bold decision to compete at an affiliated event.
She said: "I spent every last penny of my savings to enter the competition and pay for overnight stables and a B&B.
"When I turned up and saw the huge luxury lorries next to our tiny Ifor Williams trailer I wasn’t so sure I could do this.
"I was absolutely petrified, but I thought you’re here now, just get on with it."
Her determination paid off with a clear round, putting her in the lead for about 45 minutes before being narrowly beaten into second place by just one second.
Ms Mortimer said: "I was gutted, but also so over the moon I had even achieved a second with my beautiful boy.
"I’m just an ordinary person, with an ordinary income who struggles with the bills to keep my horse and sacrifice holidays, meals out, new clothes and nice cars to keep him.
"So for me it was such an achievement."
She hopes her story will inspire others and serve as a reminder that it’s never too late to chase a dream.
Share