By Despina Karpathiou
Kate Kyros is an unbelievably talented equestrian whose achievements speak for themselves. At just 20 years old, she has mastered Dressage Riding, set records and is paving the way for future Australian equestrians.
At the start of 2023, she made history with her first Australian record – and she hasn’t stopped since.
In just two years, she has redefined what’s possible for Australian dressage on the world stage, becoming the first Australian to win both a Dressage Nations Cup Gold and Silver Medal, and the first to be ranked inside the FEI Dressage World Top 10. She also made history as the first Australian to have two horses ranked concurrently in the FEI Dressage World Top 5, while achieving the highest-ever world ranking for an Australian dressage rider, reaching No. 2.
Her trailblazing season saw her win international competitions across three continents, become the first Australian to compete in the Invitational Dressage Young Rider event at the World Equestrian Festival – CHIO Aachen, and secure dual silver medals there, making her the most successful Australian in the 100-year history of the event. Adding to these milestones, she was also the first equestrian athlete to be named Bond University Sportsperson of the Year.
While competing in Europe, The Greek Herald caught up with Kate to talk about her journey, her love for dressage, and the Greek heritage that has shaped her life.
Life in the saddle
Kate is an Australian international dressage rider competing around the world with her two stallions in the U21, U25, and Open age group categories. She is also currently pursuing a double degree – a Bachelor of Business and Bachelor of Laws – at Bond University as part of the Elite Sport Program.
Her family has been a strong support system throughout her career.
“My dad, Dean Kyros, is Greek, so I have a yiayia (Katina Kyros) and pappou (Bill Kyros). My family has always been incredibly supportive of my equestrian career. My yiayia would always cook the most amazing dinners to come home to after training late at night. I wouldn’t have been able to achieve so much without their help,” she says.
Kate fondly recalls growing up surrounded by Greek culture.
“We’ve celebrated so many unforgettable Greek Easters and Name Days, and we’ve also visited my pappou’s hometown, Archaia Feneos. As a family, we often holiday in Greece – which I love!” she adds.
Her champions: Chemistry & Intro K
Kate is currently competing with two Dutch Warmblood stallions, Chemistry and Intro K.
“Chemistry (known at home as Tommy) has a huge heart and loves making his people happy,” she explains.
Kate and Tommy compete in the Grand Prix, with their biggest achievements including a Gold Medal in the Under 25 Grand Prix Freestyle at the Wellington, Florida Nations Cup and Champion Big Tour at the CDI3 Grand Prix in Brisbane.
“I compete with Intro K in the Young Riders competition (Under 21). In February 2025, Intro and I were ranked No. 1 in the FEI World Dressage Youth Ranking. Last year, I was the first Australian to compete at the Invitational Dressage Young Rider event at the World Equestrian Festival in Aachen, Germany,” Kate proudly recalls.
A day in the life of a competitive Dressage Rider
Kate’s daily routine changes depending on where she is in the world and which horse she is competing with.
“Right now, I’m in Europe with Intro K. I wake up early to complete university assignments and team meetings – often at 5:30 AM due to time zone differences. After studying, I train or compete with Intro and my German coach. I also spend extra hours caring for Intro and growing my social media platform. I’m incredibly grateful for such a busy and exciting life that allows me to travel the world,” she says.
What’s next?
Looking ahead to 2025, Kate has an ambitious list of goals.
“My focus is on making the most of my final year in the Young Riders competition (Under 21). This includes training and competing in Europe to gain as much experience as possible. I hope to represent Australia in Nations Cup competitions and continue building my partnerships with my two teammates,” Kate explains.
All of this, of course, will be done while working towards her double degree – because, for Kate, excellence isn’t limited to the dressage arena.
We’ll continue following Kate’s journey in Europe and can’t wait to see her make Greek Australians even prouder.
