Without the support of my family and friends, none of this would be possible. They have stood by my side for years, never questioning my ambition or how crazy my dreams may seem. A heartfelt thank you to my mom for her unwavering faith and love (and for giving me that much-needed push when I need it); to my dad for his patience and humor; and to my sisters who cheer me on and pick up the pieces back home when I’m not there. You all mean the world to me—thank you!
Jeff and Dillon Crane from Whitestone Forge are not only AFA Certified Journeymen who regularly compete and attend clinics around the world, but they are also some of the most talented and humble professionals who just happen to live in our backyard. Jeff and Dillon shoe all of my horses, often creating custom shoes from scratch and developing a proactive plan for their feet that aligns with my training and show schedule. They play such a crucial role in my success and my horses’ happiness that I fly them down to Florida each winter to ensure they can continue to care for my horses year-round.
Chris Hickey, who rides and trains out of Oak Meadows Farm, has been coaching me since the summer of 2016. As a national and international Grand Prix rider and trainer, Chris not only has a successful program that aligns with my goals, but his vision for me and my horses has inspired me to dream even bigger and work harder.
Unlike anyone I have ever met, Chris possesses an impressive eye for detail that allows him to see almost everything—sometimes even before I feel it. No matter which horse I am riding, he always has a toolbox of ideas and offers multiple possible solutions, understanding that not every horse responds the same way, and he works with me until concepts start to click.
Under his guidance, I have learned to be proactive rather than reactive in my riding, enabling me to ask my horses to be both light in my hand while actively pushing from behind. We communicate constantly about the unique needs of each horse and our plans for their development, allowing me to lean on him whenever I have questions or need support.
I feel incredibly fortunate that our paths have crossed, and I have the utmost respect for Chris—not only as a successful rider but also as an equally successful coach. I truly look up to him as both a mentor and a professional.
6000 Joli Cheval
Mint Hill, NC 28227