Gentlemen & Disabled Riders

Although side saddle riding is historically associated with women, men have also ridden aside throughout history—whether to train a lady’s mount or due to an injury or disability that made riding astride difficult. And many still do today.

During the Second World War soldiers rode side saddle to lay cables; having both legs on one side meant that they could do so at a gallop without becoming entangled.

Even elite riders have embraced the art of riding aside. Boyd Martin—four-time Olympian, former FEI World Number One, and proud Australian—has given side saddle a go, joining a growing number of modern male riders who explore or even compete in this elegant discipline.

ASA rider Fabian

Aussie Boyd Martin

ASA rider Tylr

Just as many men throughout history have ridden aside due to injury or physical limitations, countless women and "Riding for the Disabled Association" participants have found side saddle to be their ticket to the saddle. For those unable to ride astride, it offers a comfortable, secure, and empowering way to stay connected to horses and the joy of riding.

Will Elrick - Amputee

After a serious motor vehicle accident in 1997, Will Elrick spent five weeks in a coma, during which his heart stopped three times.

The injuries from the crash were devastating, and his right leg was ultimately amputated at the hip. After two and a half months in hospital followed by six months of intensive therapy, Will began rebuilding his strength and working to improve his fitness.

Will has a passion for achieving what many would consider impossible – but he sees things a little differently. Speaking about having one leg and using two crutches, Will says, “It’s a hell of a lot easier if you’ve got two legs, but I’ve got three legs now.”

Recently, Will approached the Australian Side Saddle Community (ASSC) with a desire to learn to ride. Riding with only his left leg and no prosthesis presents unique challenges, but the ASSC team welcomed the opportunity to support him. Will soon experienced riding aside for the first time.

Using our custom Side Saddle Roller, crafted by the highly regarded Rob Jenkins of Malvern Saddle Co. (UK), and adjusting the horns to the off-side position, Will quickly found his balance and was able to focus on the intricacies of riding. From the outset it was clear that his determination—and sense of humour—would carry him far. What stood out most was not what he lacked, but what he brought: focus, grit, and an infectious enthusiasm that lifted everyone around him. As the lesson progressed, Will’s confidence grew. He experimented with transitions, steering exercises, and balance work—each step approached with patience and a willingness to learn. Watching him ride, it was impossible not to feel inspired. His determination turned what many might consider limitations into opportunities.

The ASSC is proud to champion accessible and inclusive horsemanship. Supporting riders like Will reinforces why our community exists: to share knowledge, preserve tradition, and open doors for anyone with a passion for riding aside. No two riders are the same, and moments like these remind us of the strength found in diversity, adaptability, and shared support.

This is only the beginning of Will’s journey with side saddle. With continued training and the unwavering spirit that defines him, we’re excited to see just how far he’ll go. One thing is certain—his story is a powerful reminder that with the right mindset, almost nothing is out of reach.

For riders with physical challenges, side saddle can offer surprising advantages. The design of the saddle provides stability and support, allowing individuals with limb differences or mobility restrictions to ride safely and confidently. Will’s session highlighted exactly why side saddle has been such an empowering style of riding for centuries.

Will's successes to date include:

Reaching an elevation of 8150m on Mt Cho Oyu ,Tibet 2007
Climbing Mount Aconcagua 6962m, Argentina, 2007
Climbing Mera Peak 6467m, Nepal, 2006
Trekking Camino de Santiago, 900km trail in six weeks, Spain 2006
Competing in the Cycling World Cup 1km Time Trial, Germany, 2002 (12th place)
Trekking the entire Inca Trail, Peru, South America 1999