Horses, specifically Thoroughbreds, have been in my life for most of my 37 years on this earth. My first horse was a super-green off-the-track Thoroughbred (OTTB) that today would probably be too much horse for a regular 10-year-old. But what did I know? He was super-sweet on the ground, loved attention, and was an absolutely gorgeous dark bay. Under saddle, he was completely different: a hot ball of nerves. But boy, was he talented despite his quirks. He really taught me how to RIDE. We developed an incredible bond and did everything together. This solidified my love of Thoroughbreds.

I have had a Thoroughbred in my life for almost my whole equestrian lifespan. Each one of them magically came into my life with a story at the right time and the right place. Like many equestrians, I am an amateur with a full-time job that is not horse related but has aspirations to make it in the equestrian world. On top of that, I own my own property and manage my own horse farm, and it is hard work that takes dedication and true love. It’s real sweat, blood, and tears being an adult amateur in this time and age. When a horse comes into my life, I am with them for the long haul.