balanced. Jennifer Gates, Lillie Keenan, and Emma Fletcher stand out as role models in the sport for younger generations, thanks to their commitment to succeed both in the classroom and the arena. By raising awareness about the value that one gets from doing both, we hope to prove to young riders that they also can do both, and will ultimately be more successful because of it. Zooming out, our sport as a whole will be better off in the future if our riders pursue excellence both in the ring and in the classroom.
Balance Will Make You a Better Rider & a Better Student
The diversity of experiences will make you excited to drive to a show on Thursday and return to school on Sunday night. Being submerged in only one realm can be tiring. Doing both highlights the aspects you love in each, and leaves you feeling more focused and present in each discipline. Lillie Keenan, one of the most decorated junior riders of our generation, asserts that this balance was crucial to her success, “I think doing both [riding and school] actually helped me. I honestly don’t think I would have the success I’ve had with riding if I weren’t so competitive and driven for school. Having the two things was key: whether I fell off in the grand prix or I won, when I went to school on Monday morning, no one knew and no one cared.” Furthermore, balancing both leads you to cultivate life skills that will be applicable no matter what path you choose. First is time management, the basis of our juggling act. Because you will not have endless time to spend riding your horses or studying for your statistics exam, you will learn to be more focused and strategic about the time you actually spend doing each. Second, a strong work ethic – especially when studying in your dimly lit hotel room after a long day of competing – is necessary. And finally, you will learn to advocate for yourself, whether it’s with your teachers to explain your unique schedule or your coach as to why you cannot make it for a warm-up round on a Wednesday, because you need to be in school. Likewise, as Lillie notes, having strong self-advocacy and communication skills is essential when speaking to an investor or potential client down the road. “This sport requires huge financial investment.You need to be competent to be able to deal with that responsibility, especially if you are talking about owners or clients.You need to be responsible, it’s not just about yourself.” Jennifer Gates; photo © Ashley Neuhof
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· fall/winter 20
While there is no doubt that some schools, coaches, and sponsors understand more
