Becky Smith: It means a lot and I very much believe nowadays 90% of the time we are recognised as equal. I feel that I personally have very rarely had any issues with not being treated equally which is brilliant. There will always be the ‘men are stronger’ claim, but in every walk of life you will meet hurdles!
Sandy Ryan: To be recognised equally against men is important for me. In my sport we do exactly the same training wise and we train together men and female I think that helps a lot and has a big impact for us women.
Becky Smith: There are so many in a wide range of fields! My Sister (Gemma Hogg), Kelly Holmes, Katie Walsh and Nina Carberry (both ex Irish amateur jockeys). Rachel Blackmore, Hayley Turner, Hollie Doyle, Josephine Gordon, Serena Brotherton (multiple times champion amateur!). Also, Olivia Coleman, Pink and Annabel Neasham (Assistant Trainer to Ciaron Maher). All these inspire me because they dedicate and work hard for what they believe in and have been successful through it.
Sandy Ryan: The woman I’m inspired by is my mam, she’s been through a lot and still pulls through. This shows where I get my strength from!
Becky Smith: I think we champion ourselves and through having a good network around us. The time is now for us girls. We are being given the opportunity to prove we are able and I think it is what you make of it. Sport itself is doing plenty, but more can always be done!
Becky Smith: Work hard and dedicate yourself to whatever you want to achieve. I was once told whether you want to be a jockey, work in a supermarket or be a doctor, work to be the best at it.
Sandy Ryan: I would say to young girls …or any female to give it a go! Don’t be scared to walk in a boxing gym. I did and I’ve never looked back!
So put your arms out front and STRIKE THE Each for Equal POSE to motivate others and to make International Women’s Day YOUR day.
Do what you can to truly make a positive difference for women everywhere.