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“WE LIKE TO MAKE THE LITTLE THINGS FUN!” Relaxing on the evening before the HITS Thermal $1 Million Grand Prix, ASHLEE BOND talks about her October wedding. PHOTOS GEORGE KAMPER
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shlee Bond won her first grand prix over ten years ago. Today, her triumphs continue to mount, as she competes in the top show jumping events around the world, from the Nations Cup to her recent success at Spruce Meadows this summer. EQ caught up with her earlier this year in Indio, Calif., on the eve of the HITS Thermal $1 Million Grand Prix. Bond was relaxed and comfortable, without a trace of anxiety for the coming day’s huge competition. As she steps into the show ring at some of the world’s biggest equestrian events, she doesn’t feel the nerves she once did. “It’s funny,” she said. “I used to get the adrenaline pump before classes in California back when I was younger, but since I’ve competed around the world, and against the best riders, and proven to myself that I am capable, the nerves have gone away.” Ashlee’s easy attitude toward high stakes competition might have something to do with the happiness she finds at home. Recently engaged to farrier Sage Clarke (page 62), Bond has plenty to be excited about. “I think it’s really important to set goals and fight for what you want, but I think it’s also important to balance that with family and friends and other interests that make for a well-rounded life,” she said. As the couple looks forward to their wedding in Los Angeles this October, Bond manages to put her hard-working, competitive energy aside to enjoy what time they can find together.
60 | E Q U E S T R I A N Q UA RT E RLY | FAL L | 2013