Many celebrities are seen riding horses in historical dramas, TV shows, movies, and variety programs. Watching them skillfully handle horses, some fans might even envy their equestrian skills.
While some celebrities practice horseback riding as part of their work, others enjoy it privately, showcasing impressive skills. This article spotlights celebrities who enjoy horseback riding in their personal lives.
Learn about the horseback riding lifestyles of familiar celebrity figures and find inspiration for your own riding adventures.
Yūka Sugai
Yūka Sugai is a first-generation member of the Japanese idol group Keyakizaka46. She started horseback riding in fifth grade after being invited by a classmate.
She practiced once a week but was temporarily unable to ride after a fall that caused a fracture. Encouraged by her mother, she took up horseback riding as a sport rather than just a hobby, competing actively in tournaments.
In her first year of high school, she ranked second at the All Japan Junior Equestrian Jumping Competition 2011, won the Tokyo Equestrian Competition in 2013, and placed seventh at the Japan Open 2016—demonstrating her rising talent. The Japan Open 2016 involved show jumping, and her achievement of seventh place in a short training period was remarkable, especially given it was a TV企画.
Yūka Sugai has participated in international competitions and holds an A-class rider license.
Tomomi Kahala
Tomomi Kahala is a Japanese singer debuted in 1995. Known affectionately as ‘Tomo-chan,’ she has several hit songs. She is famous for her skill in horseback riding, and some remember her returning in an equestrian outfit for a press conference.
She started riding at age 3 and spent her childhood and adolescence practicing horse riding. She was part of her high school equestrian club.
As a high school senior, she represented Chiba Prefecture at the Yamagata Beni Banna National Sports Festival, finishing fourth in the top-level event. Although busy with her entertainment career afterward, she challenged the Japan Open in 2016 and won. She also participated in international events and the All Japan Show Jumping Championships in 2017.
Having participated in international competitions, Tomomi Kahala also holds an A-class rider qualification. She is considered to have Olympic-level skills.
Aiko Sato
Aiko Sato made her debut as an actress after winning the Grand Prix at the 6th All Japan Beautiful Girl Contest in 1992, a stepping stone to her entertainment career.
Her interest in horses was sparked by her involvement in horse racing, leading her to start horseback riding. She enjoys horseback riding mainly as a hobby rather than competing in competitions. In 2007, she married her instructor from her riding club, and her life surrounded by horses seems enviable for horse lovers.
Her husband runs a riding club, and since 2018, she has been appointed to support Japanese horseback riding events and competitions, often attending as a participant.
Sarina Suzuki
Sarina Suzuki participated in the 6th All Japan National Beautiful Girl Contest in 1992, winning the Grand Prix, which launched her entertainment career. She is known for her appearances on variety shows.
Her horseback riding journey started two years ago when her son went abroad. She now practices regularly, three times a week, and began competing seriously in January 2020. In the 2021 East Japan Equestrian Tournament, she won the 70cm level and placed fourth at 80cm.
She shared a heartwarming story about reporting her results to her son and mother—receiving praise from her son and a piano gift from her mother, along with playful teasing about her ambitions, highlighting their close relationship.
Akemi Darenogare
Debuting as a model in 2012 through JJ magazine, she became a popular talent on various variety shows. Athletic skills include baseball, softball, and short-distance running.
She is also passionate about horseback riding, regularly sharing her experiences on SNS with her beloved horse. Her riding attire is always fashionable, reflecting her modeling background.
She is practicing for Level 2 of the Japanese Riding Skill Test under the Japan Equestrian Federation. Her genuine enjoyment of horseback riding with friends makes her relatable and inspiring to fans.
Summary
What did you think? When exploring celebrities who enjoy horseback riding, many names emerge. Some have the skill to compete, while others enjoy horse riding as a relaxing hobby. The various ways to enjoy horseback riding are vast.
The celebrities introduced here are just a select few. Some started riding due to work opportunities, others have continued since childhood, and some enjoy it purely as a hobby.
Like Aiko Sato, some have found love through riding and are now living surrounded by horses after marriage. No matter what their initial reason, horseback riding remains a fascinating sport with many魅力的な要素.
Learning how celebrities enjoy riding and their fashionable riding gear can inspire you to incorporate horseback riding into your own lifestyle.