Student of The Week

Ellie came to me with a love for riding, but her confidence didn’t yet match her enthusiasm. I could tell how much she loved jumping, but always had a reluctance to do it. So we set out on a mission: build technique to the fence, thus, building confidence over the fence.

Throughout our summer show season, she’s pushed herself to try new, challenging things, growing in both skill and self-belief along the way. She’s ridden unfamiliar, challenging horses and learned to work through her nerves without letting them get in the way of her riding.

This weekend, she took on her first weekend-long cross-country event with bravery, listened to corrections, and made smart, quick decisions approaching her fences. She even came home with a first place in one of her divisions!

Ellie’s journey is a reminder that you don’t have to feel confident before you take that first step. Sometimes confidence comes from trying something difficult, trusting what you’ve learned, and discovering what you’re capable of. Progress takes courage, patience, and hard work—and Ellie is showing just how much that effort can pay off.

I’m so proud of how far she’s come, and I can’t wait to see what next show season brings for her!