Through the Eyes of Bubby Upton and Through the Lens of Cutting-Edge Science
Edited Press Release
Fairfield, CA Oct 25, 2024 – “Horses and the Science of Harmony,” produced by UK equine performance specialist Dr. Sue Dyson and US-based Kathryn Lauritzen of Padma Video is available free to watch online on YouTube and Smart TV platforms such as Apple TV, Amazon Fire, ROKU, LG, Samsung, and online via Equus Television Network. The full documentary is also featured below.
Horses and the Science of Harmony is a full-length feature film telling the story of Bubby Upton, a rising star in the world of 3-day eventing, who suffered a catastrophic spinal injury yet bravely fought to get back to doing what she loves…ride. Bubby’s emotional story is woven alongside cutting-edge science to educate viewers about equine behavior and optimal well-being, while simultaneously asking the question “what is it about horses that speaks so strongly to our hearts?’
Horses & the Science of Harmony features some of the “who’s who” of British eventing, including Mary King, Lucinda Green and Piggy March, as well as some of the top equine veterinarians and researchers in the world–all weighing in on the concept of harmony between humans and horses.
“We really worked hard to find ‘lightbulb moments’ in the science segments” says director Kathryn Lauritzen. “We wanted everyone, from the pony clubber to the Olympic athlete to learn new information. For instance, many people don’t realize that smell is probably the horse’s strongest sense or that horses routinely hear sound frequencies that we cannot hear.”
Some of the many interviews include: cognitive brain scientist, Janet Jones, on how horses and humans influence each other’s neurochemistry; veterinary behaviorist Gemma Pearson delves into how stable design influences relaxation; and veterinary researcher Rachel Murray describes how bridle pressure points can influence the way a horse moves its limbs. Executive producer, Sue Dyson, discusses how behaviour reflecting pain in horses is common and often ignored, so that people have lost sight of what “normal” looks like. She provides evidence-based information to describe what a comfortable horse should look like under saddle, which is demonstrated by international dressage rider and trainer Gareth Hughes. Bubby Upton’s emotional story epitomizes the quest for harmony between horse and rider while battling her own physical limitations.
