Finding Freedom: A Trans Equestrian's Journey with Horses

Jay Robinson and His Unique Bond with Animals

Jay Robinson has always had a special connection with animals. Whether it's his diabetic alert dog, Sage, who never leaves his side, or the two cats, Mustache and Sully, and another dog, Sesame, that share his home, animals have been a constant source of comfort and companionship in Jay's life. His professional life is no different, as he dedicates his time to saving lives at the kitten nursery of the Best Friends Animal Society in Los Angeles. But perhaps his deepest bond has been with horses, stemming from his college days as an equestrian athlete.

For Jay, coming out as a trans man was a journey that was both challenging and liberating. Yet, throughout this journey, it was his equine companions who provided him with a solace that was hard to find elsewhere.

Horses: The Silent Supporters

"The horses were the one thing that never asked me any questions," Jay reflects with a smile. Unlike the world around him, which often felt judgmental, the time he spent with his horses was free from pressure. Riding allowed Jay to be his true self, unencumbered by the expectations and scrutiny that often accompanied his identity. In the quiet company of his horses, Jay found a space where laughter and smiles came easily, and the weight of the world felt lighter.

Jay's love for horses and riding is profound, and during his transition, the barn became his sanctuary. "The barn was the one place I found solace," he recalls. A moment that encapsulates this bond was when Jay wondered if his horse would recognize him after he began his physical transition. To his relief and joy, the horse looked at him with the same gentle eyes, as if nothing had changed.

Studies have shown that horses can read human emotions through facial expressions, remembering the mood of a person. Jay is convinced his horse sensed the newfound ease in his demeanor, a peace that had not been present before.

Running Towards New Challenges

Although Jay doesn't ride as often these days due to the high costs of keeping horses in Los Angeles, he has found new ways to challenge himself. March marked a significant milestone as he completed his first marathon, a feat he once thought impossible. "This is stuff I never thought in a million years that I would be doing," Jay admits. "Now, here we are, and I’m like, oh gosh, I’m running a marathon. I don’t know why I thought that was a good idea. Someone tells me I can’t do something, or I tell myself I can’t do something and I’m like, let me see if I can prove to myself that I can."

Outside of running and his work with kittens, Jay channels his experiences and insights into writing about trans issues, a topic close to his heart.

The Freedom of Equestrian Life

Reflecting on his days as a competitive rider, Jay fondly remembers the sense of freedom and authenticity he felt. "For me to ride completely and truly as myself is just the most freeing feeling in the entire world, aside from the fact that it literally feels like you're flying when you're going around the ring on a horse. It's like feeling weightless, like nothing is holding me down anymore. And I’ve come this far. I’ve done this much. There is no limit for me. Why not keep going?"

For Jay, the bond with horses was not just about riding but about understanding and acceptance. Horses, devoid of prejudice, cared only about how they were treated and how the person riding them made them feel. This simplicity and honesty offered Jay a rare kind of support, one that was crucial during his transition.

Jay continues to draw strength from his equestrian past, a past that has instilled in him the courage to face new challenges and pursue new dreams. Whether he's running marathons, rescuing kittens, or advocating for trans rights, Jay Robinson embodies the spirit of determination and resilience.