Some time ago, I sent some questions to a gal named Morgan. She was kind enough to answer. Someday, I hope to spend some time with her and her trusty steed, Mikey. Until then, these lovely answers will have to do. A huge thank you to Morgan for her time on these - enjoy!
1. When did you begin riding? What drew you to the horse? I began taking riding lessons in 2nd grade after my 2nd grade teacher suggested I take them. I constantly talked about horses and made up stories about them in class and so she helped find an outlet for me that included real horses. I got involved with the Arabian breed in 5th grade after I started taking lessons with Cedar Ridge Arabians. I took a few months off, not knowing what I truly wanted to do with riding (part of me still wanted to be a jumper), but I went back and I have been involved with the Arabian breed ever since. Originally, my cousin's passion for horses drew me to them. She was older, really cool and loved horses, so I just had to like them as well.
2. What do you think has kept you interested? I absolutely believe it has been my mom and the people in my barn families that have helped nurture my love and keep me interested in horses. I love sharing things with others and the fact there was always a huge support group, at the barn or at a show, willing to support you is really comforting. Also, it's easy to stay interested in something that you're passionate about.
3. How do you feel when you’re grooming a horse? Riding? Competing? I really love grooming horses, even if it may be considered dirty work. I like that you get to bond with your horse on the ground and learn their quirks and idiosyncrasies. I feel you also got a lot closer to your horse and any horse you are working with. There is nothing more fun than scratching the right spot and seeing your horse turn his head up in enjoyment. When I ride, I feel like all my stress, anxiety and any excess baggage I may be dealing with it gone. Because in that moment I'm focusing on my horse and either what we're working on today or just goofing around, all while enjoying each other's company. I've been competing over the past eight years and I still get nervous, but these days it's more of an excited nervous. There is nothing more thrilling than hitting the reverse and trot and feeling your horse sink his back end and literally throw you out of the saddle.
4. Do you like riding at home or competing best? What are the main differences in your temperament, goals, and general contentment in these two areas? I love the accomplishments you achieve when riding at home, but I truly love competing. For me, the main difference between riding at home and competing would be that while at home, I'm still working on fine tuning and putting the pieces of the puzzle together in terms of my connection my horse. While at a show, we have those connections in place and now it's time to show what we can do, all while adjusting and anticipating new puzzle pieces I can work on. My demeanor and temperament is consistent across the two environments, however I do have more nervous energy the day I compete, but it dissipates as soon as I get on my trusty steed.