From a horse-crazy childhood to navigating the professional equestrian world, Maria Rasmussen’s journey is a testament to her unwavering dedication and love for horses. Her story, marked by early challenges, relentless hard work, and a deep understanding of horsemanship, highlights a modern-day embodiment of the sport’s enduring spirit.
From Childhood Dreams to Equestrian Reality
Maria’s early life was characterized by frequent moves, but her fascination with horses remained a constant. A pivotal moment came in fourth grade when a concerned teacher suggested an after-school activity. Maria’s request to ride instead of playing softball set her on a path that would define her life. Beginning with lessons at the Naperville Equestrian Center, she quickly progressed, absorbing every opportunity to be around horses. This early immersion, fueled by passion, laid the foundation for her future career.
Her family’s financial constraints meant Maria embraced the “barn rat” life, mucking stalls and cleaning tack to fund her riding. This period of dedication instilled in her a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for horsemanship. As she advanced, she became a working student, first at a boarding facility and later at Perfecta Farm under Kim Gardner. These experiences were crucial in developing her skills and understanding of horse care and training, often supported by her mother’s own entrepreneurial efforts. A lighthearted anecdote involves her sister Stephanie, with Maria humorously shaving her neck with horse clippers, a memory that underscores their close sibling bond.
Embracing Professionalism and Partnership
At 18, Maria transitioned to professional status, taking on various freelance riding roles. This demanding period involved extensive travel, driving hours daily between barns. Her dedication eventually led to her first full-time professional position with Steve Wall at Harmony Farms. This opportunity, initially for a six-week circuit in Gulfport, Mississippi, marked a significant step in her career. During this time, she met Vanessa Berger (now Wendt), who would become a lifelong friend and business partner.
The shared passion for horses and career ambitions forged a strong bond between Maria and Vanessa. After a decade with Steve Wall, Maria ventured out on her own, partnering with Vanessa. Their early ventures were characterized by shared resources and a strong sense of camaraderie, traveling to shows in a trailer, embodying the spirit of shared dreams. Maria also found a mentor in the late Jeff Wirthman, whose influence profoundly shaped her approach to developing young horses, emphasizing the importance of showcasing a horse’s natural abilities and fostering a deep appreciation for them.
Balancing Motherhood and Business: Sea Change Farm
Maria’s personal life also intertwined with her equestrian pursuits. She married and had a son, Owen. Despite pregnancy affecting her ability to ride, she found support from Ashley Hill at Forest Hill Farm, who, as a mother herself, understood the challenges. Owen spent his early years on the road with Ashley’s children, benefiting from a supportive environment. While Owen briefly caught the “horse bug” at age five, his interest eventually waned, a common experience for many children of equestrian families.
In 2015, Maria established her own business, Sea Change Farm, in Ocala, Florida, alongside her head groom, Luis Ruiz. The farm’s name, suggested by Vanessa, symbolized profound transformation. Despite a challenging start with limited supplies, the business quickly grew, partly due to inheriting clients and the horses she developed and sold. Facing overwhelming demand, Maria and her assistant decided to split the business, allowing Maria to refocus on her passion: developing young horses, a path greatly influenced by Jeff Wirthman’s teachings.
A Spectacular Lesson in Horsemanship: The WCHR Hunter Spectacular
A defining moment in Maria’s career occurred during the $150,000 WCHR Peter Wetherill Palm Beach Hunter Spectacular. Competing on SVF Changeup, affectionately known as Casey, Maria encountered a challenging situation. Casey, a talented but sensitive horse, became apprehensive under the lights of the International Ring. Instead of pushing through, Maria drew upon advice from friends: “Do what feels good; don’t do what doesn’t.” She adapted her strategy, communicating with Casey and adjusting her ride to build his confidence.
Although Casey spooked and took a rail, Maria and he continued, focusing on positive progression. The pair ultimately finished the course, not in the ribbons as initially hoped, but with a shared sense of accomplishment that resonated deeply with Maria and her owner, Kristen Hamel. This experience underscored Maria’s commitment to horsemanship, prioritizing the horse’s well-being and building a trusting partnership over a perfect performance. It was a powerful reminder of why she dedicates her life to the sport.
From Potential Slaughter to Superstar: The Story of Casey
Casey’s journey to the WCHR Spectacular was as remarkable as Maria’s. Discovered as a promising 2-year-old in Hungary, he was at risk of being sold for slaughter. Isabella Harding, owner and head trainer at Goldridge Stables, recognized his potential despite a suspicious seller. With the help of Grand Prix rider Zsófi Vándor, Casey was rescued. A pre-purchase veterinary exam revealed sarcoids, likely contributing to his precarious situation. After successful treatment, Casey’s training continued, and he eventually arrived in the United States.
He showed successfully as both a jumper and in young hunter divisions before being matched with Maria. Together, they achieved the 2025 WEF Circuit Championship in the High Performance Conformation Hunters. Kristen Hamel, Casey’s owner, frequently praises Maria’s exceptional horsemanship, her deep connection with her horses, and her transparent, collaborative approach with owners.
Outside the barn, Maria maintains a “normal” life, balancing her equestrian career with her son Owen’s involvement in baseball and golf. This equilibrium between her professional and personal life, she believes, makes her a better horseman. Maria Rasmussen’s story is a compelling narrative of passion, resilience, and the profound bond between humans and horses, proving that with dedication and heart, even the most challenging paths can lead to extraordinary achievements.
