Michelle Parker, a prominent figure in the world of show jumping, has carved a distinguished career from her base at Cross Creek West in San Marcos, California. Her consistent success at major equestrian events across the United States and Canada has cemented her position among the top riders on the Pacific Coast. Parker’s journey is a testament to a lifelong dedication to horses, spanning generations of equestrian passion within her family.
A Legacy of Equestrian Excellence
Hailing from a family deeply rooted in the equestrian world, Michelle Parker is a proud fourth-generation horsewoman. Her passion for horses was ignited at the age of 11 when she began jumping lessons, a pursuit that quickly became an integral part of her life. By high school, she knew a future centered around horses was inevitable, though she initially considered a different primary career. This conviction solidified when she moved to California for college, solidifying her ambition to become a professional equestrian.
Parker’s early training involved guidance from Judy Martin in Tucson, Arizona, followed by an extended period working with Ronnie Freeman in California. Under Freeman’s tutelage, she gained invaluable experience riding Thoroughbreds off the track and starting young horses, seizing every opportunity that came her way. Her mother, Carol Parker, has been a steadfast supporter throughout her career, sharing her mother’s profound love for horses.
A significant influence on Michelle’s career was her mother’s purchase of Threes and Sevens, an appendix Quarter Horse with Grand Prix potential. Guided by Ronnie Freeman’s advice, Carol owned the horse for a year, achieving considerable success in Grand Prix events with Lynn Witte riding. The horse was later sold to Peter Leone, marking the beginning of Carol Parker’s more than 30-year involvement with Grand Prix horses.
Guiding Talented Equines
Throughout her 17 years of training independently, Michelle Parker has nurtured and guided numerous memorable horses, leading them to successful careers. Her breakthrough moment arrived in 1998 with Wisby D, a horse purchased sight unseen from Europe. Wisby D propelled her Grand Prix career forward when they clinched the $75,000 USET/Cosequin Grand Prix at Indio. Parker fondly recalls Wisby D as a “meter 60 horse” with a unique personality, thriving primarily in the show ring. Her skill and finesse as a rider were instrumental in unlocking his full potential.
More recently, Cupilor has been a standout partner for Parker. Discovered by Michelle at Branscomb Farm when the horse was just four years old, Cupilor became one of her most consistent mounts. He achieved victories in the 6-year-old and 7-year-old YJC Finals and secured his first Grand Prix win at the age of eight. Parker’s victory in the Del Mar National Grand Prix on Cupilor highlights his significance, but his endearing personality and love for his job made him an exceptional partner. Cupilor’s ability to compensate for minor rider errors allowed Parker to focus on winning, underscoring his importance in her career.
Currently, Parker competes with Easy Does It and Chaccala. Easy Does It has earned the PCHA Grand Prix Horse of the Year title, recognized for his exceptional scope and enthusiasm for his work. Chaccala, a mare, is a newer addition to Parker’s string, and they are in the process of building their partnership, with high expectations for the future.
Cross Creek Farms and Cross Creek West: A Hub for Equestrian Excellence
The Parker family’s equestrian legacy extends to their facilities. Cross Creek Farms, a sprawling 100-acre property in Tucson, Arizona, owned by Carol Parker, provides a sanctuary for retired campaigners and serves as a home for young horses. The farm, bisected by Sabino Creek, is a vital part of their operation.
In 2005, Michelle established Cross Creek West in San Marcos, California. This secluded facility offers convenient access to major competition venues like Del Mar, the Oaks/Blenheim, and Temecula. The dedicated team at Cross Creek West includes her partner and trainer Alex Alvarado, along with a skilled ground team. Salvador Alvarado has been instrumental in scouting talent like Easy Does It and Chaccala. The farm also benefits from the long-standing commitment of grooms such as Armando Salazar, who has been with Cross Creek Farms for over 35 years, Manny Galindo (17 years), Carlos Galindo (over 10 years), and Alberto Barajas (around 10 years). Parker emphasizes her gratitude for this trustworthy foundation of individuals who ensure the well-being of her horses.
While Cross Creek Farms has historically been involved in breeding, the focus has shifted. Michelle Parker notes a move away from breeding their own foals, now preferring to import prospects of all ages from Europe. This allows for a more informed acquisition of horses, which are then trained and competed before being resold. Currently, breeding efforts are minimal, with one notable exception being the mare Doriena, a retired Grand Prix horse due to foal soon.
Charting the Course for the Future
Cross Creek West operates as an A-rated hunter/jumper training and sales facility, renowned for producing top horse and rider combinations across various levels. The facility also specializes in the development of young horses. Their training philosophy is centered on continuous improvement, enhancing both the horses’ performance and the riders’ skills.
Michelle Parker finds immense satisfaction in developing young horses, particularly cherishing those breakthrough moments in their progress. While winning major classes and Grand Prix events brings considerable reward, the success and happiness of her clients remain a paramount objective. She acknowledges the demanding 24/7 nature of the horse business but finds it to be fulfilling work. The greatest pressure, for Parker, stems from her responsibility to her clients and ensuring the well-being and success of every horse and rider under her guidance.
The equestrian lineage continues with Michelle’s niece, Sadie Parker, now the fifth generation of their family involved in the sport. Michelle recently facilitated Sadie’s participation by acquiring an investment equitation horse from Europe, enabling her niece to compete and engage in the process of producing and selling an import for a new discipline.
Reflecting on her career, Michelle Parker concludes, “It’s always a learning game, the sport has changed so much since when I started but it’s all about the horses.” Her dedication to the sport, her horses, and her clients continues to drive her forward in the ever-evolving world of show jumping.
