Vicki Roycroft

Vicki Roycroft is one of Australia’s most accomplished and respected equestrians, with a career spanning more than five decades at the top levels of international sport. A three‑time Olympian, Vicki has represented Australia at the 1984 Los Angeles, 1988 Seoul, and 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games, competing in both eventing and show jumping—a rare achievement that makes her the only Australian woman to have competed in two equestrian disciplines at the Olympics.

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In 1987, Vicki made history when she and her famed Thoroughbred Apache became the first Australian—and the first woman—to win the prestigious Rome Grand Prix, one of the most competitive show jumping events in the world. Her partnership with Apache remains one of Australia’s most celebrated horse‑and‑rider combinations.

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Across her stellar career, Vicki has:

• Competed at three Olympic Games and three World Equestrian Games

• Been crowned Australian Champion in both eventing and show jumping (1983, 1996, 2005) 

• Represented Australia in four World Cup Finals and won more World Cup qualifiers than any other Australian rider, on more than 12 horses 

• Trained, produced, and coached countless elite horses and riders, at home and internationally

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Her dedication to the sport was recognised in 2000 when she received the Australian Sports Medal for her outstanding contribution to equestrianism. 

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Beyond the arena, Vicki is renowned for her lifelong passion for Thoroughbreds, her influential coaching career, and her generosity in mentoring the next generation of riders. She continues to ride, teach, and compete, remaining a deeply respected figure in Australian equestrian sport.

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Session - Lessons from a Lifetime of Learning

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In this inspiring conversation, renowned Australian equestrian and Olympian Vicky Roycroft reflects on the lessons, experiences, and insights gained throughout her lifelong journey in sport, coaching, and personal development. A three-time Olympian, Olympic coach, and pioneering showjumper, Roycroft shares stories from her career, the importance of continuous learning, resilience in the face of challenges, and the value of mentorship and adaptability.

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Session - The Olympic Journey: Insights from Elite Athletes

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Join a panel of accomplished Australian athletes as they share their unique Olympic and Paralympic journeys, offering firsthand insights into the dedication, resilience, and mindset required to compete at the highest level. Through stories of triumph, setbacks, preparation, and perseverance, the panellists will explore what it takes to pursue excellence on the world stage and the lessons elite sport can teach us about leadership, teamwork, and personal growth. Vicky Roycroft brings the perspective of a three-time Olympian and Olympic coach, while Emma Booth shares her inspiring journey from a life-changing accident to competing at two Paralympic Games

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