09/07/2026
Growing Up in the Barn
One of my favorite parts of running a program is getting to watch young riders grow up.
Some of these girls started riding with us when they were little. They’ve grown in height, confidence, independence, and skill but more importantly, they’ve grown into horsewomen.
Over the years, they learn that riding is about so much more than what happens in the show ring. It’s learning how to care for a horse, understand their needs, solve problems, handle setbacks, work hard when no one is watching, and take pride in doing things the right way.
They mature not only as riders, but as young adults. They learn responsibility, patience, resilience, and the importance of putting their horse first.
And somewhere along the way, the little girls who once needed help with everything become the ones teaching the younger riders, helping in the barn, making thoughtful decisions, and taking ownership of their horses and their riding.
That is one of the greatest rewards of this job.
The ribbons are wonderful. The accomplishments are exciting. But watching these young women grow into confident, capable horsewomen is something I will always be most proud of.
Start young. Grow together.
Featuring Gemma Kuten Lent, Avery Herfert and Gabriella Scott.