Ashley Wilson-Hammer is a prominent figure in the reining horse world, challenging gender norms in a sport often dominated by male coaches. With a potent combination of determination and skill, she has carved out a successful career training both horses and riders, earning numerous accolades along the way. Wilson-Hammer’s approach emphasizes teamwork between horse and rider, a philosophy honed through a lifetime of experience in the equestrian world.
Reining, a discipline derived from ranch work, demands exceptional athleticism and precise execution of complex patterns. Riders must guide their horses through a series of maneuvers, including spins, sliding stops, and lead changes, all while maintaining fluidity and control. This intricate dance requires a deep understanding and bond between horse and rider, a partnership that Wilson-Hammer strives to cultivate in her training. She believes in making the right actions easy for the horse and the wrong actions difficult, a delicate balance that demands immense discipline and patience from both partners.
“It takes a dedicated commitment and a lot of hours in the saddle to be good at what we do,” Wilson-Hammer explains. “The rider has to become teammates with the horse.” The inherent unpredictability of working with 1,000-pound animals, each with their own “definite opinions,” is a challenge she embraces, fueled by a genuine love for the sport and the animals. This dedication extends beyond competition hours, encompassing the daily care and well-being of her equine charges, highlighting that for her, reining is a lifestyle rather than just a job.
Wilson-Hammer’s passion for horses is deeply rooted, stemming from her upbringing as a second-generation horsewoman. Her father was a trainer, and her mother showed horses, instilling in her a strong work ethic and competitive spirit from an early age. She never envisioned a different path for herself. Relocating to the Valley of the Sun with her husband, Mike, who previously competed on the rodeo circuit, Wilson-Hammer has been a fixture in the Phoenix area’s reining community for nearly two decades. Their shared love for horses led them to establish their lives together in Arizona, where Mike now operates a luxury camping excursion company.
The barn at Chaparosa, Wilson-Hammer’s training facility, is home to a diverse group of horses, primarily Quarter Horses with a few Arabians among them. She expresses a profound admiration for these animals, marveling at their “elegance, athleticism, grace and kindness.” Wilson-Hammer views each horse as an individual with a unique personality and skill set, finding immense privilege in the challenge of learning to communicate, coach, and train them effectively. This personalized approach allows her to cater to a wide range of clients, from beginners to experienced riders, all united by their passion for horses.
Wilson-Hammer finds immense reward in witnessing the growth of her clients and their equine partners. “Watching an owner and their horse come together as a team, seeing their confidence and skill levels increase, observing a new horse owner begin to truly learn how to care for their horse—each of these moments make the blood, sweat and tears aspect of this career more than worth it,” she shares. The humbling experience of guiding a client on their journey with their horse, culminating in moments of “sheer exhilaration” and the feeling of being “on top of the world,” is what she strives to create repeatedly.
Her success is also a testament to the support she has received from influential mentors, including cowhorse greats Jim Paul, Randy Paul, and Cal Cooper. These individuals served as crucial guides, teaching her when to push her limits and when to exercise patience. Significantly, they offered her their belief and support at a time when many in the industry were hesitant to embrace women in leadership roles. Through her dedication, hard work, and innate instinct, Wilson-Hammer has earned widespread respect, establishing a solid reputation that transcends mere skill or knowledge.
Ultimately, Ashley Wilson-Hammer’s career in reining is a profound labor of love. “I can’t imagine doing anything else,” she states, her eyes alight with passion. Her happiest memories and most cherished experiences are inextricably linked to horses, whether riding them, working with them, or being surrounded by her “horse people.” She expresses deep gratitude for the opportunities her life in the equestrian world has afforded her.
References:
- Wilson-Hammer, A. (n.d.). [Original Article Content]. Arizona Woman Magazine.
