Melissa Galloway holds the highest dressage score ever recorded by a New Zealander at the Olympics — but behind that incredible achievement is a story of persistence, doubt, growth, and grit.

In this episode of On the Edge, Melissa shares what it really took to get there. We talk about the mental toll of elite sport, the identity struggles behind perfectionism, and how stepping back helped her reconnect with why she rides at all. She opens up about the moments she nearly gave up — and how choosing to keep going led to her greatest breakthrough.

Melissa isn’t just a world-class athlete — she’s a genuinely lovely human who gives back to the sport with grace and generosity. Whether you’re an equestrian, an athlete, or simply someone chasing a big dream, this conversation is full of real insight and powerful reminders that even when it feels like the end… it might just be the beginning of something better.

00:00 – Teaser: “It wasn’t until I took the pressure off…” 00:09 – Intro: What this episode is really about 01:00 – Growing up in Southland: the spark that started it all 04:20 – Melissa’s rise: from regional arenas to Olympic records 07:15 – The mental cost of the intensity overseas 10:00 – Feeling lost and nearly giving up 13:40 – Letting go: what changed when the pressure eased 17:05 – Redefining success and rediscovering the joy 19:30 – Supporting younger riders and giving back to the sport 21:10 – Jump Off Round: the rapid-fire rider questions 22:00 – Final thoughts & reflections 22:50 – Outro: like, follow, and share the ride

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