Amanda Steege: Finding Her Inspiration by Leaving it Behind
By Laurie Berglie
Portraits by Isabel J. Kurek
While horses have always been a part of Amanda Steege’s life, it wasn’t until her last year of college that she realized they would become her life. Armed with a psychology degree … [Read more]
- Published in Sidelines Spotlight
Makayla Benjamin: Enjoying Horses From Sweet Briar to Bitterroot
By Carrie Wirth
After donning a cap and gown and graduating from Sweet Briar College, 2018 USEF/Cacchione Cup winner Makayla Benjamin packed her bags and road-tripped to Wyoming with her best friend and IHSA teammate Courtney Barry. The two riders … [Read more]
- Published in Sidelines Spotlight
Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue: Stubbornly Advocating for Misunderstood Animals
By Britney Grover
In the equestrian world, horses have a cousin far too often overlooked: equus asinus, or donkeys and burros. Mark and Amy Meyers were once among the many who didn’t know anything about donkeys, but taking in just … [Read more]
- Published in Sidelines Spotlight
Julie Ulrich: Four Lifetimes of Horses
By Lauren R. Giannini
Portraits by Shawna Simmons
Former grand prix jumper rider Julie Ulrich holds an unofficial Ph.D. in horses. A firm believer in the importance of flat work, she can ride and train at the highest level of … [Read more]
- Published in Sidelines Spotlight
Mimi Wroten and the Sweet Briar Vixens Take on the NCEA
By Carter Anderson
The Sweet Briar Vixens, of Sweet Briar College in Virginia, have completed their first year as a National Collegiate Equestrian Association (NCEA) team with Head Coach Mimi Wroten leading the way. Mimi is excited to add to … [Read more]
- Published in Sidelines Spotlight
Angel Heart Farm: Joy and Ponies for Children with Cancer
By Britney Grover
Portraits by Hannah Draughan
It was just a walk-trot class at a class A Arabian show, but Kira and Krystal Annie EN looked fit for any world stage. With fancy bows attached to her riding helmet, Kira … [Read more]
- Published in Sidelines Spotlight
Maggie Jayne: Life in a Horse Show Family
By Alannah Castro
Portraits by Isabel J. Kurek
Maggie Jayne grew up in a horse show family — and wouldn’t have it any other way. It’s easy to see why, when one considers she’s grown up in a well-known family … [Read more]
- Published in Sidelines Spotlight
Theresa Sanders: Adventures Riding the Dartmoor Derby
by Pam Lazor
It all started a few years ago, when Theresa Sanders’ non-horsey sister told her she had read a travel magazine article about the Dartmoor Derby in England — four days of challenging rides on horseback through the … [Read more]
- Published in Sidelines Spotlight
Mint Julep: The Sweet Taste of Kentucky
By Bob Bell
Each year when I arrive at Churchill Downs for the Oaks and Kentucky Derby in May, the first vendor I see is the one selling the mint julep in the official souvenir glass. Of course you start … [Read more]
- Published in Sidelines Spotlight
Laura Bowery: Balancing Life, Horses and Children
By Heather Wallace
Equestrians know true balance appears effortless to the observer, but it takes a lifetime of dedication, training and practice to master. How do you balance a successful equestrian business, competitions, teaching and motherhood? Show jumper Laura Bowery … [Read more]
- Published in Sidelines Spotlight