Rachel Downs

Rachael Downs is one of Australia’s most accomplished dressage riders, celebrated for representing Australia at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. A highly respected figure in Australian equestrian sport, Rachael competed in both the Individual Dressage and Team Dressage events at the Games, riding her long‑time partner, the mare Aphrodite. She placed 33rd individually and contributed to Australia’s impressive 6th‑place finish in the team competition. 

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Born in Sydney, Rachael has built a distinguished career in the sport, producing and competing horses at the highest international level. She has represented Australia at major championships, including the FEI World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Kentucky, where she competed across the Grand Prix and Grand Prix Special. 

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Rachael has carved out a reputation for excellence with a strong FEI competition record, achieving 26 international starts and 11 wins, demonstrating remarkable consistency and technical precision in the arena. 

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She is admired for her ability to develop horses through the levels, most notably her Olympic partner Aphrodite, whom she trained from a two‑year‑old to international Grand Prix. Her career has been shaped by influential mentors, including renowned coach Clemens Dierks, and grounded in a philosophy of dedication, resilience, and harmony with the horse. 

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Rachael continues to be recognised as a significant contributor to Australian dressage—both as an elite competitor and as an inspiring role model within the sport.