Founder and Coach for the Showboat IEA Equestrian Team
Interview by: Chris Harrison . Design & layout by: Lilia Castillo
Renee Romeo
“We compete under the IEA governing body –their mission is to introduce students to equestrian sports through organized competitions. Riders could even qualify for college scholarships through the IEA – it’s recognized by the NCAA.” ~Renee Romeo
Serving as coach and marketing director for the Showboat
Middle and High School Equestrian Teams is a natural fi t for Renee Romeo. She grew up in the professional horse business – her mother ran a thoroughbred equestrian training facility in New York. In 2008, Renee and her mother moved to Naples, and by 2010 they had estab- lished the Showboat IEA Equestrian Team, a horseback riding and training program for middle and high school students of all experi- ence levels. Under Renee’s leadership, this year’s high school team beat 98 teams from fi ve states to win the zonal championship, earn- ing them a trip to Syracuse, New York for the National Competition.
“The IEA competitions take riding to another level. When you compete, you ride an unfamiliar horse. You have to get on and communicate with this animal right away. ”
THE STATS: Birthplace: New Paltz, NY Current City: Naples resident since 2008
Employer: Coach / marketing director for Showboat Middle & High School Equestrian Team
Education: Quinnipiac University, graduated magna cum laude
Describe yourself in three words. Energetic. Focused. Relentless.
What’s your favorite food and favorite place to get it? Pizza, from Aldo’s in King’s Lake Plaza.
When you’re not working, what’s your favorite thing to do in SW Florida? I love boating and being out on the water.
If a movie were to be made about your life, which celebrity would play you? Defi nitely Demi Moore!
What’s the one technology gadget that you can’t live without? My iPhone.
What’s your favorite thing about living in SWFL? The people and the weather.
Least favorite? The summers. The grass here isn’t the same as in New York, and hay for the horses is so expensive!
What’s next for you?
I plan to successfully compete with the Showboat IEA Team! I would like to get some strong sponsors for the families that cannot aff ord to compete at this level. That way, these young equestrians can get out there in front of college scouts to continue their education.
3300 County Barn Rd, Naples, FL (914) 213-2475
www.showboatstables.com
20 | Pulse Magazine SWFL
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