Derek Braun
ADVENTURES OF A VISIONARY
F
rom winning the USET Talent Search Finals to participating on Nations Cup Teams, Derek Braun has competed successfully in the United States and Europe as a junior and a professional. In doing so he not only garnered solid miles in the saddle, but as he traveled, he envisioned bringing the European horse show experience to the states. As Derek can attest, visions take significant time to become reality. Requiring intelligence to plan, capital to fund and then the right team to make it happen, Derek was determined to produce a type of horse show that didn’t currently exist in this country. Beginning with location, Derek chose Lexington over a decade ago. He opened the doors of Split Rock in 2002, but realized if he wanted to expand he needed more space, so purchased his current farm in 2009. Far from ready for prime time, the 10-acre property had a small house and a tobacco barn when he bought it. “I love creating and building new things. With three arenas, including an indoor, five staff apartments, my house, and 36 stalls, we developed Split Rock into a working facility with a full time staff and the potential to host an event.” The ‘events’ commenced a few years ago,when Split Rock began hosting one-day jumper shows at the farm. A low pressure, low cost day, especially good for young horses, these shows emulated the small one-day shows in Europe. Derek began honing his skills as a show manager, in preparation for the next phase. “When I had the opportunity to compete in Europe, I felt the competitions in America were behind. I wanted to build the European type of show in the U.S., with an atmosphere that impresses sponsors and top competitors, and a place where fans can enjoy great sport. The model that everyone talks about loving in Europe but can’t find here,” he explained.
From a team of people who helped each trailer unload and settle in, to the gorgeous VIP adjacent to the main arena with different dining options daily, including a candy bar and an evening gala, to the easy going schedule, exhibitors and owners noticed the efforts. The most appreciated aspect was Derek’s attention to detail. Any issue was addressed and attended to, if not immediately as soon as possible. “I do feel like we achieved the goal but it is a constant progression, always looking to do better. We are working this winter to improve the experience for next year, and expand the concept to other locations.” Derek is also spending time with his four-year-old daughter, Esme while pursuing his Split Rock vision. Although he will always be a rider, and still aspires to be at the top of the sport, Derek is riding and showing less for the time being, in order to make this vision happen. And his vision is only just beginning to unfold. Constantly thinking, driven to excel, his concept continues to evolve. “I’m a bit of a perfectionist when it comes to details – in everything I do. I’ve learned a lot through running these events. The experience has taught me to be a better person, to treat people with more respect and compassion,” he admitted. “My team has much so much pride in this and that is really important to me. If your team and staff are behind you, the possibilities are endless.”
In 2015 he made a giant leap from under the radar one-day events to hosting not one but two CSI3* FEI events at his farm. His vision had become a reality. The first event on the aptly named Split Rock Jumping Tour, The Lexington International, was in May, followed by The Bourbon International in October.
Derek stated that there will be two events in 2016, one at Split Rock in May. The details of the other event are yet to be Split Rock Jumping Tour award cooler revealed. “I named it ‘Tour’ because I “Structurally organizing my farm to envision taking the concept to other facilities and farms, to establish accommodate everybody, that was the biggest challenge. I wanted to a nice series of events for show jumpers,” he said. “My goal is to create a perfect flow for the horses, riders, sponsors, and spectators, add one show a year over the next several years. Establishing a with no hassles. It is a working man’s farm, not a fancy facility, so to brand is important. We are looking to keep our standards high create a special feel and atmosphere was the most challenging part.” everywhere we go.”
Image credit: EqSol
january/february ·
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