Galloping by the Sea – Competing in Rømø, Denmark

Breanna L
Aug 14
3 min read

There are few places that capture the spirit of equestrian sport quite like Rømø, Denmark—a wild, wind-blown island where the line between land, sea, and sky seems to blur. For Lorelai Stevens, a talented young rider with windswept blonde hair and a quiet determination, and her gleaming palomino stallion, Grayraven’s Dexter, simply known as "Dexter", the recent weekend competition was more than just a test of skill. It was an experience marked by beauty, connection, and pure equestrian passion.

Arrival on the Island

Lorelai arrived on Rømø a day ahead of the event, crossing the long causeway with Dexter trailered safely behind. With the sea breeze pouring in and the horizon wide and wild, it felt like entering a different world—one where horses belong as much as the gulls and the grasses.

Dexter, a striking Traditional Irish Horse with a golden coat and flowing white mane, stepped off the trailer like he owned the place. Calm, curious, and collected, he took in the salty air with a quiet intensity. That first evening, Lorelai took him for a hand walk along the beach, the two of them silhouetted against the setting sun—a blonde rider and her golden horse, utterly at ease.

The Thrill of Show Jumping

The first day brought Show Jumping, and Lorelai was ready. The course was smartly designed—demanding but fluid, with jumps that came quickly and turns that required precision. Dexter was bold and responsive, ears forward, hooves barely touching the ground between fences. The pair moved as one. Lorelai’s calm presence and Dexter’s power were in perfect sync, and though the round wasn’t without its challenges, it was a strong, dynamic performance. They earned respect from spectators and fellow riders alike—not just for skill, but for the obvious partnership between them.

Dressage by the Sea

Day two brought Dressage, and with it, a different kind of focus. While Show Jumping is about split-second decisions, Dressage is about harmony, discipline, and patience.

Set against the backdrop of the distant North Sea, the arena was both calming and dramatic. Lorelai and Dexter entered with quiet poise, their movements refined and elegant. Dexter’s natural balance and strong frame—paired with Lorelai’s clear, composed aids—resulted in a flowing, expressive test. Each movement seemed to reflect their mutual trust, and even small errors were handled with grace.

Beyond the Arena

Between events, the atmosphere on Rømø was as relaxed as it was friendly. Riders and horses from across Denmark and beyond mingled and shared stories. Lorelai, soft-spoken but confident, connected easily with fellow competitors—swapping grooming tips, laughing about long trailer rides, and bonding over shared passion.

But it was in the early mornings that something truly special unfolded. Just after sunrise, Lorelai would walk Dexter along the nearly empty beach. With the tide low and the wind light, they moved together in quiet rhythm—golden mane and hair catching the light. Those peaceful moments, far from the bustle of the arena, were just as meaningful as any ribbon or score.

A Weekend to Remember

Leaving Rømø wasn’t easy. The island had given Lorelai and Dexter more than just competition results—it offered a shared experience neither would soon forget. From the adrenaline of Show Jumping to the elegance of Dressage, from the salt air to sand-covered boots, the weekend was a celebration of the equestrian spirit in its purest form.

Rømø brought out the best in Dexter—not just as a powerful competitor, but as a true partner—and deepened the bond he shares with Lorelai. It reminded her why she rides: not just for the challenge, but for the connection, the calm, and the magic that only places like this can offer.

For those lucky enough to ride there, Rømø is more than just a destination. It’s where horse and rider meet the elements—and themselves—in the most unforgettable way.