Future pros: How to get the ‘horse power’ you need to be at the top of your sport
Many of you see yourself at the top of the sport in a few years. But how do you get there?
In the end, competition success is a partnership and to be at the top of the leader boards, you need a stellar equine partner to be there with you.
So how do you get that horse (or horses)?
So if everyone had the ‘financial flexibility,’ they would buy that 4* or 5* sting of horses and carry on, but the thing is, MOST of us don’t have the ability. (By the way, if you do, that’s wonderful!)
In fact, I know some young riders that can compete fabulously on top, “made” horses. They have the show record, but can they produce horses? After all, as a future professional, you will need to be able to produce horses for yourself and your clients to keep your business moving.
Keep these tips in mind related to finding your ‘horse power’:
If you have an opportunity to ride or compete a schoolmaster—one who has ‘been there, done that’—DO IT! Even if it’s only for one lesson, or a 20-min cool-down walk for your trainer. These guys can teach us so much!
Accept every opportunity to ride and help train other people’s horses. This will make you an incredibly versatile rider and future trainer. When that tough horse with a ton of talent shows up, you’ll be ready.
Take the horse you DO have access to (I don’t care about the athletic potential or current stage of training) and make it the absolute best it can be. Share your journey. You also might surprise yourself with how far you may be able to go! People will recognize this. You will gain critical skills for your future business. You will learn to value every horse that comes into your ring.
Remember that many (but not all of course) current professionals don’t even own their own horse! From a financial side of things, this is the way to go. Just make sure you have figured out arrangements to continue progressing your own riding goals.
Get creative! I know many young professionals who have worked out deals with their clients for the opportunity to ride or compete their client’s schoolmaster. For example, a dressage professional may have a client with an older Grand Prix schoolmaster and a greener horse in the pipeline. The trainer may have the green horse in their training program at a discounted rate in exchange for the opportunity to take the schoolmaster to a couple clinics, even a show or two to finish their goal toward a medal. Just make sure you have these agreements in writing!
Let’s talk owners. Yes, there are top professionals out there with owners. Remember, they have proven themselves FIRST. Owners want their horses to be successful. Don’t expect people to hand you horses (sorry, I say that in a loving, but truthful way). Instead, follow the 5 steps above and share your journey with others. Share your dreams with others. Authentically get to know the equine community around you and support it. Give back to others. With time, people will be attracted to you and your journey and will want to do it with you. This is then the time to explore owner agreements.
