Introduction to a Young Equestrian Talent
Athien Hernandez, a 15-year-old from Riverside, California, is not just any teenager; he’s a Deaf equestrian cowboy. This remarkable young individual is making waves in the world of equestrian sports, a discipline that encompasses various riding styles and activities like endurance riding, reining, and show jumping. His journey is a testament to passion and perseverance, defying any perceived limitations. Athien, a sophomore at the California School for the Deaf Riverside (CSDR), also dedicates his time to the school’s football team. However, his Saturdays are uniquely shaped by his commitment to the equestrian lifestyle. Recently, Athien’s inspiring story garnered attention from local news outlets, highlighting his achievements and unique path.
From Fascination to Focused Passion
Athien’s fascination with horses and the cowboy way of life began at a very young age. “Ever since I was four years old, when I was just a little boy, I was fascinated,” Athien shared. He recalls spending his childhood engrossed in videos and movies about horses, cows, and bulls, expressing his passion to his parents. While the initial interest sparked at four, his focused dedication to equestrianism began around the age of 13. His father, Kyle, elaborated that this was when Athien started committing to it “full-time,” with dedicated Saturday sessions, although he had ridden on and off for years prior.
The Thrills of Charro Riding and Colas
When asked about his favorite aspects of equestrianism, Athien highlighted two distinct and exciting activities. One of his favorites is Charro riding, a vibrant Mexican tradition. This discipline involves horsemen riding their horses at high speeds within a ring, attempting to rope another horse. Athien described it as a “super fast-paced sport” that he truly enjoys for the “freedom and thrill” it offers. Another activity he relishes is “colas,” where the rider gallops alongside a steer and grabs its tail to bring it down, a skill that earns points and contributes to winning.
Navigating Equestrianism as a Deaf Athlete
A unique aspect of Athien’s equestrian journey involves his connection with horses, particularly deaf horses. He currently rides horses lent to him by trainers, a situation he feels fortunate for, as many equestrian facilities require participants to own their horses. Notably, one of his trainers specializes in reining and possesses several deaf horses. Intriguingly, this trainer finds deaf horses to be more skilled than their hearing counterparts, a trait that may stem from a genetic predisposition, as the trainer is also a breeder of horses with a known bloodline of deafness.
Kyle, Athien’s father, spoke about the crucial role he and Athien’s mother play in supporting his passion. They have consistently encouraged him to learn the fundamentals of equestrian sports. Beyond the challenges inherent in any athletic pursuit, Athien also navigates additional hurdles due to his deafness and a genetic syndrome (an additional Y chromosome) that affects his balance, clapping, and eye-hand coordination. Despite these challenges, equestrianism has been instrumental in Athien’s development, boosting his confidence, balance, and coordination.
Advice for Aspiring Deaf Equestrians
For other Deaf individuals interested in pursuing equestrian sports, Athien offers encouraging advice. He suggests communicating with hearing individuals through gestures to learn the basics. If communication remains a barrier, bringing an interpreter can help clarify instructions and learning processes. His core message is not to let communication worries deter aspiring riders. “Don’t give up, keep going and you’ll make it through and gain some skills,” he advises.
Future Aspirations and Breaking Barriers
Athien’s dreams extend beyond competitive riding. He aspires to own his own farm and horses, and also wishes to become a farrier, specializing in crafting horseshoes. A significant part of his future vision involves teaching, welcoming both deaf and hearing children to learn together. Athien is passionate about challenging the notion that deaf individuals cannot pursue certain activities. He stated, “deaf people are always told that they can’t do this and that like you can’t play football or you can’t do art, you can’t ride horses, or take care of the bulls, etc.” He urges others not to accept these limitations but to “find something that fits what you like, you have to go for it. Find your skills and keep up with them. You’ll find success.” Kyle emphasizes the importance of investing in children’s interests, noting the significant growth they can experience through such support.
Support Athien’s Journey
Athien Hernandez is preparing for an upcoming competition in steer wrestling in November. To support his equestrian career, the family has launched a GoFundMe campaign. You can find the donation link in the transcript to contribute to Athien’s journey. For more about his equestrian adventures, follow him on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/deaf_horseman/. The Daily Moth wishes Athien the very best in his endeavors.
References
- Dunn, R. (n.d.). Deaf Teenager Athien Hernandez Becomes an Equestrian Cowboy. Daily Moth.
- Hernandez, A. (n.d.). GoFundMe Link. gofund.me/328575b4
- Hernandez, A. (n.d.). Instagram Profile. https://www.instagram.com/deaf_horseman/
