11/16/2025
Can you believe the 2025 show season has come to an end? We could not have asked for better weather as we watched our girls continue to accomplish great things.
We watched Lani and Confetti ribbon in both showmanship and horsemanship. At the beginning of the season, between her horses wanting to roll in the sand and having to learn tough patterns, these classes were not her favorite. The growth has been incredible.
We watched Gabriella and Piper win first place in a class of thirteen. Changing horses mid season is never easy, but she put in the work and made it happen with Piper. Her ring presence has grown so much and it is wonderful to watch.
We watched Emma and Ted crush showmanship and complete an entire trail pattern beautifully. Introducing a new horse to the show world takes time and effort, and these two are becoming quite the team. Her elegance and refinement have been lovely to watch develop.
We watched Addie and Chantilly pull out some first place rides and push through the jitters with grit and heart. Having a spooky horse is never easy, so getting around a huge ring with wind, running kiddos, and the dreaded cones while making it look effortless is an achievement worth celebrating. Her determination and ability to make it look easy has been beautiful.
I am so proud of the lessons I have seen learned this year. We are learning how to work smarter and trust our horses. We are learning how to feel our feelings without letting them affect our horses or anyone around us. It is okay to be frustrated when things go sideways. Feel it, then buckle up because a new class is already waiting.
We are learning how to be graceful winners. How to be happy when hard work pays off without being snotty or unkind. We are learning how to be happy for our fellow riders. How to cheer when others win us because they are working just as hard as we are. Today they simply had it.
I hear positive pep talks without blame. Of course sometimes our horses are bratty but that means we have to work harder not be upset with our partner. Our team has manners, poise, grace, and the ability to be great.
I love the ribbons and they deserve every buckle and high point, but the growth is my favorite part.
Thank you to the families who spend their weekends in the dirt with us. You make the world go round. You work so hard to make sure our entire team is supported. Running to the trailer and back, keeping Clyde alive, holding horses, wiping butts, packing snacks, making jokes, running patterns, and standing at the ring to share good vibes. I am so grateful for you and for how you represent our barn.
Thank you to Spartanburg Horseman Association for a wonderful series where our kids can grow, feel supported, and be celebrated. We cannot wait to see the high points list and we will see you at the awards.
Until next year champions enjoy your winter break.
