For most kids my age, summer means relaxing and hanging out with friends. But for me, it’s all about working with my horses and preparing for competition. Summer time is when I’m able to ride more horses and get more practice in without worrying about schoolwork.
To get the most out of my summer of riding, I’ve set a few goals for myself. My competitive goals include trying to qualify for the 2016 AQHA Youth World Cup and the 2016 AQHA Youth World Show. The Youth World Cup is an international competition for Western and English riders from around the world. It’s held every two years, and in 2016 it will be in Australia. The Youth World Show is also through the AQHA, and you must qualify in your event to compete.
Outside of competition, I plan to start my 2-year old palomino, Willow, under saddle.
I also want to try to introduce more youth riders to horses. I think that there are so many kids who want to get involved, but do not know how or don’t have any guidance to start somewhere. I plan to help encourage other youths by inviting them to small 4-H shows so they can see what the horse world is like.
I’m going to try my best to reach these goals. I find that staying busy keeps me the most focused!
What are some of your summer goals or plans? I’d love to hear about them.