Ariat Sponsors "Ride to Independence" with Equine Para Adventures

Who Are Equine Para-Adventures?

Equine Para-Adventures is a pioneering organisation dedicated to creating equine opportunities for disabled adults beyond the traditional equestrian centres/riding school set ups. Co-founded by Stephanie Quintrell and her husband Jon Quintrell, the initiative opens doors for riders to engage with horses in more adventurous, inclusive, and empowering ways.

Co-founder Stephanie Quintrell

Stephanie has been a lifelong rider, owning horses since she was 12. Until 2019, she was an active, able-bodied equestrian and mother. But in July of that year, at just 28 and with a two-year-old son, Stephanie suddenly became unwell. Within 48 hours, she was wheelchair-dependent and soon lost complete use of her right hand. She was later diagnosed with complex Functional Neurological Disorder, a life-altering condition that shook her world and changed her family’s life.

Though she had to stop riding for 18 months, Stephanie never gave up. Through sheer determination, she trained her body to work with her remaining mobility and eventually returned to the saddle - rebuilding her strength on her beloved horse, Bubba. Today, she’s not only back in the arena but actively competing and team chasing.

In 2023, Stephanie completed a ground breaking journey called Ride to Freedom—an expedition where eight women rode across the Pyrenees Mountains, following the historic World War II Freedom Trail. In doing so, Stephanie became the first wheelchair user to complete the crossing on horseback.

Stephanie realised there must be others like her, riders with disabilities who weren’t content with being led, but who longed to ride boldly, independently, and adventurously. And so, Equine Para-Adventures was born in December 2023.

About ‘Ride to Independence’

In February 2026, a courageous team of six women - including Equine Para-Adventures co-founder Stephanie Quintrell - will embark on an extraordinary expedition: crossing the Andes Mountains on horseback.

This journey is not for the faint of heart. Facing ‘every season in one day’ the team will be faced with high altitude, rocky terrain and extreme weather conditions. From snow and ice to scorching sun, the Andes will test the riders' endurance at every turn.

Over the course of the 7 day expedition, the women will spend between 5 to 9 hours in the saddle each day, traveling deep into the mountains and camping each night under the stars. Stephanie will remain on horseback for the full crossing, only dismounting when absolutely necessary to navigate specific obstacles - with the full support of her team when those moments arise. All kit needed for the expedition, including Steph's wheelchair, will be carried on mules whilst the team make this arduous journey.

Through this challenging expedition the team seek to showcase the power of pushing physical and emotional boundaries to succeed. 

Why Ariat Is Involved

As a brand deeply rooted in performance and purpose, Ariat is committed to supporting athletes of all abilities. We’ve long designed gear that empowers equestrians to reach their highest goals - and this journey represents that spirit on a whole new level. 

As proud sponsors of the 2026 expedition, we’ll be equipping this extraordinary team of women with the head-to-toe performance gear they need to take on one of the most physically and mentally demanding challenges of their lives. From trail-tested boots to weather-ready apparel, every piece is built for the journey ahead.

Follow the Journey

From training rides to summit stories, we’ll be sharing every moment of Ride to Independence. Meet the team, explore their gear, and follow their path to the peak in 2026.

These women are rewriting the narrative of what's possible and we’re proud to stand beside them.

For more information on this incredible expedition visit www.equine-para-adventures.org