Sexual Abuse in the Horse Industry: A Conversation with Annette Paterakis on Isolation, Hope, and Healing.

Due to extenuating circumstances, we weren’t able to release this episode of Equestrian Voices in the originally intended order, but we also felt this story was too important to leave on the shelf. That’s why we’re bringing it to you now as a special addendum to the podcast.

Growing up in the Netherlands, Annette Paterakis rode ponies competitively and had Olympic aspirations. However, transitioning to riding horses was difficult, and teenage Annette found herself going from top placings to being eliminated in the show ring. With dreams and investments on the line, Annette needed some help. Unfortunately, it came in the form of a predator.

In this forthcoming interview, Annette shares how she was groomed into a sexual relationship with her trainer, who was thirty years her senior. It’s a story about a quest for worthiness, exploitation by a trusted figure in her life, and the crushing isolation of secrecy. Still, and more importantly, Annette’s experience is about resilience, hope, and healing.

Caroline and Annette leave no stone unturned and also discuss: 

• Her trainer’s unreasonable and money-driven pursuit for Annette to represent Greece at the Athens Olympics.
• How the grooming process started and what the red flags were.
• How Annette found the courage to leave the relationship six years later.
• How friends, acquaintances, or sexual abuse prevention programs for athletes might support victims in similar situations.

It’s extremely challenging for victims to come forward and share their stories, but in doing so, they raise awareness and reduce stigma. If you or anyone you know is being impacted by sexual abuse in the US, this is a list of resources for getting help via We Ride Together: https://www.weridetogether.today/get-help/crisis-resources