How 2014 prediction came true for Love Island finalist Gemma Owen

Jennifer Donald's avatar
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Published In Features
Love Island Gemma Owen competing in pony dressage classes in 2014
Gemma Owen competing in pony dressage classes in 2014
(Image credit: KEVIN SPARROW)

When H&H visited England striker Michael Owen’s Cheshire racing yard, Manor House Stables, back in 2014, our key focus was his top class string of racehorses, including his Royal Ascot-winning superstar Brown Panther.

But as we chatted with the former footballer that day, we naturally drifted on to the subject of his eldest daughter, pony-mad Gemma Owen – then just 11 years old – who was already showing a keen interest in dressage.

Jennifer Donald
Jennifer Donald
Showjumping and racing editor

Jennifer is passionate at showjumping and her role as H&H’s showjumping editor has taken her around the world reporting from shows and interviewing riders, connections and those involved behind the scenes. Since joining H&H from BBC Sport in 2005, she has written on every subject across the equestrian sphere — from turnout rugs to stable management — and has interviewed gold medallists, world champions and winners galore. She also has first-hand experience of working in the equestrian industry as a riding instructor and yard manager.