named Billy and that afternoon as we were only allowed to hack. I quickly figured out he was going to challenge my riding ability. Over the next two days as Peter helped create the mentality that if a client had brought this horse to us for training, and we had to show it that weekend, we would want to get the best out of the horse we could in that short period of time.
On Sunday, Nations Cup day, Julie Winkel,
our Teams Chef d’Equipe, picked me as the “anchor.” She helped create a plan for a successful course, I went in the first round and got the job done with just one rail. For the 2nd round Julie and I strategized about how to improve on our first round. We changed Billy’s warm up slightly and I jumped the second round fault free with a few seconds faster. I walked out of the ring happy and satisfied with my improvement.
Within minutes, riders were told there
schooling show of a series I had created to get beginners excited about riding and showing. I was so grateful for the help and support I received.
I arrived at Nationals November 15th
excited and ready to meet the other riders, as well as draw for the horses we would be riding and caring for. The EAP National Finals are unique in that no one is allowed to bring their own horse and no one is allowed to help you with the one you get. I felt like I had a slight advantage as I ride many different types of horses on a daily basis. I drew a horse
would be a ride off of the top four. As the names Stephen Foran, Ashlyn Matheus, Katie
Lynch, and I were announced I was pleased to hear my name. Changing horses, we were given five minutes on the flat to get a feel for our new mounts and then warmed up over a couple fences, this time without any help from our coaches. I went third, rode a quick, tidy course and then waited for the end result.
I was very excited to hear the riders that
would be chosen for the George Morris Horsemastership Training Program. When the announcer announced my name all I could do was smile, no words would come out. Stephen
As we packed up to leave I was approached
by a few professionals who offered to help me in this industry. Prior to the EAP I had no idea how many professionals truly care and want to help young riders/professionals succeed in this industry. I also received an email from USHJA saying I would be receiving a financial grant to help offset costs of traveling to Wellington for the GMHP.
I don’t know what is next for me, but I do know that the opportunities available to me now would not have been possible without the EAP program. I am so grateful for these doors that have now been opened to me.
Thank you, thank you, thank
you to everyone involved in this program, it has changed my life. ◊
Foran, winner of the EAP nationals, and I went up together to receive our awards. Wow! I never dreamed of this being possible.
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