I’m not the type to believe that “everyone should get a trophy for participating.” I’ve come in last place in enough horse shows to know that failure and trials only push you to rise to the next level. But I do believe that when it comes to the Olympics, the medal count isn’t what really matters. It is the heart and the stories behind the competitors. That’s why I decided to share some of my favorite stories so far: Hiroshi Hoketsu, age 71, is the oldest competitor in the Olympics since 1920. He made his debut as an equestrian back in the 1964 Tokyo games and then worked as a...
In Honor of the 2012 London Olympics
It is only right to highlight some of the incredible stories of the Olympics through the years. Well, the stories I find most fascinating: Major General Jack Burton was indeed one of several riders who represented the United States at the first Olympics since Berlin in 1936. He’d served in the Pacific during World War II and trained horses for the army during and after the war years as well. But his story didn’t end there. Or, one of my personal heros: The story of Lis Hartel, a woman who would win championship after championship, ride and place in the Olympics during a male-dominated period, and all without the use...
Guest Post: A Pony Named Pretzel
Pretzel, the Little Pony with a BIG Personality His name was quite apropos, the color of the crunchy snack. Pretzel was a feisty and affectionate Shetland pony. He commanded attention even though he was much smaller than the other horses in the paddock. He quickly found a soft spot in my parent’s hearts and mine too. My dad discovered Pretzel at the fence one sunny morning in mid June, just days before my birthday. He had wandered into the yard, lured by the other horses and for the possibility of a meal of hay. When my dad led him into the pasture the Thoroughbreds welcomed him warmly. After locating the...
Guest Post: Knowing Horse Obsession Wasn’t a Phase
Welcome, Charise! I’m so glad to share this post – because I can so relate to it. I heard the same things. And I feel the same way still. Share in the comments if you agree. – Nicole I love horses. Or think I do. Thought I did. But others always told me it was a phase. “All girls love horses.” And even more others said, “You only like to ride. If you had to take care of a horse, you wouldn’t like them so much.” I can remember being three and my Great Grandparents were living in a cabin while their house was being built. There was a black...