2001 North American Young Riders Championships
Ace - 4th Individual Speed Competition
When we first put Ace under saddle, we knew we had a super star in the making. In 1997, Ace and I entered our first competition. Ace acheived immediate success in the jumper ring and moved up the ranks quickly.
My biggest thrill with Ace was entering and winning my first Grand Prix at the Fox Run 'A' Show. I competed against a number of professionals and thought there was no way I could win. I made it to the jump off with ten other competitors and was the first to set the speed. This win encouraged me to try harder than ever. In 2002, competing in my first World Cup Qualifier and doing both WEG Trials at Palgrave was my proudest moment ever!
My current mounts include Ace's half siblings - Austin, Eko and Edi - all out of our Trakehner mare Avena Sativa. In the 2003 show season, Austin did us proud by being Reserve Champion in the Canadian Marshall and Sterling League and also was awarded his second Horse of the Year title - Amateur Owner Jumper Champion!
In 2006, my newest mount - a Canadian Sport Horse by Rio Grande- Rio's Shadow - competed successfully up to 1.2m. Edi competed successfully up to 1.45m. Eko also started showing this year in the six year old Canadian Jumper Development Series.
I love working with all types of horses with their own unique personalities. I particularly enjoy training them while they are young. This gives me the chance to start them off right, and bring them directly into the world of show jumping. It is important to develop a special trusting bond with each horse. However, I think the secret to my success is my determination to win!
