Mary Stocks from Knockholt in Kent had never ridden a horse before but had always wanted to give it a go.
She decided that age was no barrier to achieving your dreams.
So on Thursday as she turned 80 she took the plunge and sat in the saddle for the first time cheered on by well wishers.
Mary got the chance to ride at PineRidge Equestrian Centre in Pound Lane in Knockholt and rode reliable Cob Fred.
Together Mary and Fred have a combined age of 100.
Mary said:”It was amazing, I had always wanted to see what it was like riding a horse and decided that my 80th birthday was the perfect occasion.
“Some people thought it was a bit of a crazy idea but now I’m 80 I want to make sure I’m really living life and making the most of everyday.
“I had a major heart attack at 55 so didn’t expect to make it this far so I just want to embrace life now.
“I may be 80 but it doesn’t stop me from challenging myself.
“I loved the feeling of being on a horse, my daughter Amanda has a horse and I wanted to find out why she loves it so much, now I know why and I’d love to do more in the future.”
Jenna Butler-Smith from Pine Ridge Equestrian, said:”We were delighted to be able to make Mary’s wish come true and we were really impressed with her. She didn’t hesitate, she got straight on and enjoyed the experience.”
Now the stables have been inspired by Mary and are now offering a once a month activity for people who have never been around horses to come and meet and greet the horses and have coffee and cake.
Jenna said: “We see the difference horses make to peoples mental health and mood, they bring out positive emotions and really help people and we want to do more to help in this way.
Anyone wanting to join the horse meet and greet should contact pineridgers.com or email pineridgers@hotmail.com