PrintIt’s never too late to start—and there’s always more to learn.
The reminders are everywhere. This sport of ours is one for the ages—all ages that is. As this issue of the Chronicle celebrates youth, I’d like to remind our junior riders just what a long future they could have as a jumping rider.
I saw an example of this at a recent clinic hosted by Craig Allen and the Gobles, of Icon Sporthorses in Friendsville, Tenn. The whole gamut of riders of all ages participated. Eleven-year-olds (who had already been riding since the age of 5) rode alongside one rider who had taken up the sport somewhere around the age of 50.
With the right equine partner, sensible coaching and common-sense safety precautions, most any age individual can have fun with our sport. I enjoyed everything about my weekend at this most beautiful—and exquisitely maintained—facility. Riders young and older work hands-on with their horses at Icon. Whether it was bathing the pesky white one for an 8 a.m. session, painting feet or knowing the importance of being on for some walk time before your group begins, these riders were obviously familiar with more than the view between their horses’ ears.
Some of the riders came from quite a distance, and it was clear education was everyone’s goal. Many were staying at Icon for three consecutive weekends of clinics: my clinic, followed by Melanie Taylor with the U.S. Hunter Jumper Association’s Emerging Athletes Program, and concluding with a Greg Best clinic. These riders compete, but they also saw an opportunity to expand their knowledge in a significant way and took advantage of it.
Another refreshing part of the Tennessee experience was seeing how many of the parents were active participants in their children’s passion. I especially enjoyed chatting at lunch with families such as the Andersons: non-horsey parents with two horse-crazy kids. Both Hallie and Clayton have very nice horses, ride really well and do all their own work with their horses who live near their home. They earn money for shows and extras by taking care of other horses nearby. I’d bet money on these youngsters going as far as they want to go in this sport with the maturity and well-rounded foundation they’re developing. Only down the road will they gain a full appreciation for the gifts their parents are giving them by providing opportunity while instilling a sense of responsibility at the same time.
Plenty Of Chances
Yet, for youngsters without the chance to pursue their dream of a life with horses, all may not be lost. In my travels I meet so many people who only in their middle years find it possible to ride or be around horses. Pursuit of an Olympic dream doesn’t have to begin at the age of 5, or even 12; witness Michael Matz who didn’t begin riding until his later teens and went on to an Olympic medal.
For those beginning later in life, today’s shows offer plenty of chances to get in the ring for all ages. Many mature riders just enjoy the chance to slow down, be outdoors and in the company of a sympathetic companion as a break from their everyday stresses.
