Free Rein - The Autobiography of an Olympic Heroine

by Gillian Rolton

the autobiography of two-time Olympic gold medallist equestrian Gillian Rolton. Gill Rolton is one of Australia's most accomplished riders. Her riding career has spanned over 30 years and includes Olympic Games, World Championships and internationals. Even more impressive when you find out Gill started eventing and showjumping at the relatively late age of 21. Free Rein follows Gill from her days as a horse-mad, music-loving Adelaide surfie chick to her inclusion in the Australian Sporting Hall of Fame. She reveals how injury to horse and rider meant she missed out on the LA Olympics and also on Seoul. After the incredible low of dealing with the harrowing death of a talented horse from botulism, Gill tells of her golden year when, with her wonderful horse Peppermint Grove and the rest of the team, she fulfilled her Olympic dream and won gold in Barcelona. Gill will always be remembered as the tenacious woman who helped Australia win consecutive team gold medals when she finished her last ride with a broken collarbone and ribs. Free Rein reveals an amazing woman who personifies the word pfrseverance and defines the true Australian spirit that is universally admired.

Genres: Horses

336 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2003

Reviews

[Stef · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel was exceptional! Telling the story of a true Australian hero, legend and icon, this novel reveals the intimate details of Rolton's life. This would be one of the more interesting books I have read, for the details it exposes of the difficulties horse riders face in their day to day life, may be some that I will have to face if I become a pro dressage rider one day. I would rate this book 8.5/10, and would recommend it to all horse riders, who want to learn more about the trials and tribulations of horse riders.

[Emmaby Barton Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

such an enjoyable read. what an incredible woman. loved that her voice really shone through and how authentic she was. (didn’t know while i was reading it that she died of cancer 2017 aged 61 which i was very sad to find out after when doing a deep dive on her)

- ‘i don’t think i’m a naturally gifted rider. i think my talent lies in the fact that i am persistent and have the will to persevere no matter what. i am determined to fulfil my dreams. so my talent is perseverance, but my passion is horses’
- the differences in aussie/us/british riding culture - ‘just do it’ v discipline, weather etc
- the effort and sacrifice - not just from yourself, but your whole support system - it takes to make it to an elite level
- learning from mistakes, setbacks - even for elite riders!!
- how eventing has changed - the steeplechase/endurance section etc
- god i would love to experience the british horse scene
- ‘sometimes, gill, the goalposts change for whatever reason. you did the best you could under the circumstances. you. got through those finish flags. you made a team score. you really were a winner. it wasn’t what you wanted, but the job got done’

[Ella · Rating 5 out of 5]

Was an amazing boo. really good an intriguing not knowing what was going to happen next and she was an amazing rider . READ IT. it was heart touching and really interesting and a great story of the tough and had time to go through.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very informative about behind the scenes of an Olympic and Equestrian Combination.

[Olivia Telfer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Couldn’t put this down. Absolutely loved it

[Farm Mum · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great autobiography from one of my favourite sports people. Gillian and Peppermin Grove were just legends at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, helping to win the Australian team a gold medal - remounting and riding her cross country section with a broken collar bone and ribs. I'm so glad I got to watch it on TV - how amazing was it.

[Elle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fabulous read! Love Gill and Freddy!