Horse&Rider is thrilled to announce that Eric Priest, owner of Priest Performance Horses in Belle Center, Ohio, is the winner of the 2024 Horse & Rider Trainer of the Year program with prizes provided by Nutramax Laboratories Veterinary Sciences, Inc., makers of Cosequin.
The Trainer of the Year Program was implemented to recognize horse trainers that have had a positive impact on their clients, or the industry. Nominations for this contest involved both a written essay, and a video outlining the contributions of this trainer. This program is an opportunity to highlight and celebrate a horse trainer who exemplifies what it means to be a good steward of the equine industry. Out of all the trainers nominated, 10 finalists were selected, with one earning the title of Trainer of the Year.
Horse&Rider Magazine is thrilled to announce Eric Priest as the winner of the 2024 Trainer of the Year. Priest, a trainer based out of Belle Center, Ohio, is beloved by his students and those who work with him through coaching, training, or showing. Specializing in training reining horses training, lessons, colt starting, and sales, Priest is well known for his ability to connect with riders of all levels, and training horses that excel at reining and a variety of disciplines. Known for his attention to detail, positive attitude, and the level of care he bestows upon horse and rider, his clients describe the wonderful experiences they have had with Priest as a trainer and a coach. “Eric has always gone above and beyond to ensure my horses are cared for. He notices every little hair out of place and will take care of it”, says Samantha Calabrese. She goes on to describe the way Priest gives back to the horse community, and cares for riders of every level. “Eric always does 4H clinics. He helps out people at shows who might not be in his program but benefit from him. Eric promotes good sportsmanship by being a good sportsman himself. He always gives positive feedback to his clients no matter the ride.”
Something that all nominees noted was the love that Priest has for the sport and most of all, for the horse. “Eric only does what the horses need to be comfortable and happy”, says Evan Rogers, one of Priest’s riders that nominated the trainer for this award. Calabrese agrees, saying “I believe what drives my trainer is he actually loves the horses and the sport. Eric has made me want to be a more patient rider. He has instilled the importance of having the horse be happy and healthy before anything. He has instilled these traits with being honest with me even when he knew that I wouldn’t be happy about the situation. Eric always puts the horse first! If the horse isn’t cared for properly, they don’t compete. The horse always comes first with Eric.”
And Priest has certainly demonstrated a love and respect for the horse, going so far as to risk his life. When a barn fire broke out in June, at the training facility of Brant Performance Horses and Priest Performance Horses, tragically taking the lives of over 40 horses, Priest ran into the danger, attempting to open gates and save horses. He suffered from second-degree burns as well as third-degree burns on his scalp, back, and arms which were the primary reason he was hospitalized for a month. He spent recovery time in the OSU Burn Center, and maintained his trademark positive attitude throughout treatment. Eric Priest demonstrates his love and passion for the sport and the horse in every aspect of his life, and those who nominated him see this in action every day. He is not only a coach, trainer, competitor, and champion, he is a role model to those around him, as noted by Evan Rogers. “I consider Eric to be someone who I want to be when I grow up. A hard-working coach who is passionate about his job and always positive… even when I spin 5 times instead of 4!”
Prizes for the 2024 Horse&Rider Trainer of the Year are provided by Nutramax Laboratories Veterinary Sciences, Inc., makers of Cosequin, and include a custom arena banner, a custom silver belt buckle, and an annual subscription to Horse&Rider magazine. Cosequin also generously surprised Priest and his team with a check for $5,000, to help rebuild after the catastrophic fires that occurred this summer. Priest will also be interviewed for an upcoming episode of the Horse&Rider On Audio podcast and will be featured in a future Horse & Rider digital issue
