The pursuit of excellence in the equestrian world, much like in entrepreneurship, is often defined by the willingness to take calculated risks. As Mark Zuckerberg famously stated, “The biggest risk is not taking any risk.” This sentiment resonates deeply within the show pen and beyond, where bold decisions can separate the exceptional from the ordinary. Whether it’s executing a daring maneuver in a horsemanship pattern or investing in a promising new equine partner, taking risks is a fundamental aspect of achieving greatness and finding prosperity in the competitive equestrian landscape.
Calculated Risks in the Show Arena
Many individuals within the equestrian industry have encountered situations where taking a leap of faith has led to significant rewards. These risks can manifest in various forms, from training challenges to major career decisions.
Kamiah McGrath’s journey exemplifies the rewards of persistent training and calculated risk. At just eleven years old, she and her mother decided to teach her ten-year-old horse, Jake, lead changes. This endeavor, guided by instructional videos and the advice of seasoned professionals like Jason Martin and Charlie Cole, involved numerous challenges and tears. However, after six years of dedicated practice, Kamiah’s perseverance paid off when she won the AQHYA World Show in Western Riding in 2017.
Similarly, Julian Harris found success by taking the significant risk of establishing his own business. He notes that every day involves a risk in making his business work and pursuing his lifelong dream. His most outstanding accomplishments stem from his ability to work successfully with challenging horses.
John Pauluzzi made a bold return to the show circuit after a 30-year hiatus by purchasing a two-year-old horse, Certainly Flatlined, based on a strong intuition. This risk proved highly rewarding, as the horse, as a three-year-old, secured wins at the NSBA World and Congress under his guidance.
Joan Schroeder faced considerable risks by buying out her partners on Blazing Hot and then, as a woman, competing in western pleasure events during a time when it was less common. Her decision to show Blazing Hot at the 1996 World Show, where she became the only woman to reach the finals in the Junior Western Pleasure and ultimately won, highlighted her courage and skill.
Debby Brehm moved her show horses from Nebraska to Texas, a decision that involved the risk of reduced riding time for her daughter, Morgan. This move, however, paid off significantly. Morgan achieved multiple wins at Level One Championship shows in Trail and Western Riding, while Debby found success in Select Pleasure.
Elizabeth “Spike” Brewer took a substantial risk in 2005 by purchasing a four-year-old mare named In Good Company, or “Flora,” who was largely untrained. Despite the mare’s challenging disposition and the looming World Show, Brewer trusted her gut feeling. Five months later, they earned the Reserve World Champion title in the Amateur Junior Hunter Under Saddle at the APHA World Show. Flora went on to accumulate significant points and proved to be an exceptional broodmare, validating Brewer’s initial risk.
Shannon Vroegh defied potential stigmas by showing a brightly colored tobiano paint horse in the Junior Trail at the NSBA World against predominantly Quarter Horses. This risk resulted in a third-place finish out of 94 competitors, a testament to the horse’s ability and Vroegh’s confidence.
Bella Rosa emphasizes the importance of pushing her horse to perform at its best within a pattern, coupled with unwavering confidence. This approach, particularly when going first in the order at a show, led to a successful outcome by making a strong initial impression.
Emma Brown prioritized her passion for horses over social activities, a significant personal risk. She sacrificed time with friends and school events, including playing basketball, to dedicate herself to her horse, Some Hot Potential. This commitment allowed her to build strong friendships within the equestrian community and pursue her passion.
Abigail Hardy’s most significant risk involved purchasing her favorite horse, My Secret Past, affectionately known as Kam. Initially, the horse was nervous and difficult to handle due to Hardy’s small stature. However, through consistent effort and building an unbreakable bond, Kam transformed into a 7-time Congress champion and 3-time NSBA World Champion, underscoring the rewards of taking a chance on a promising partner.
Jenna Dempze made a virtual, sight-unseen purchase of Heating Up The Chips based on the recommendation of trainer Gil Galyean. Despite never riding or seeing the horse in person, Dempze trusted the Galyean Team’s expertise. This gamble paid off when she made the finals in the 3-year-old non-pro competition the following day and ultimately secured third place.
Amy Groefsema took a risk by competing at the NSBA World show just four months after acquiring her horse. The gamble proved successful, as she won Novice Amateur Showmanship and achieved a Top Ten placement in Novice Amateur Trail, attributing her success to the support of her trainers, family, and friends.
Missy Thyfault, as a horse trainer, found a way to increase profitability by taking risks in purchasing prospects for resale. While this venture carries the inherent risk of not always working out, it has largely been a financially rewarding endeavor that also allows her to continue developing her skills and enjoying the process of showing the horses until they are sold.
In conclusion, the equestrian journey is often paved with decisions that involve an element of risk. From training breakthroughs to strategic investments and bold competition choices, embracing these challenges can lead to remarkable achievements, both within the show arena and in personal and professional growth. The experiences shared by these individuals highlight that calculated risks, when coupled with dedication and passion, are often the catalysts for profound success.
