FEATURED RIDING STUDENT: NANCIE
THE INTERVIEW
1. **Introduction:**
– What drew you to horseback riding, and what do you enjoy most about it?
Since I was a little girl, I always had a love for these beautiful horses God created. It started with my aunt, who owned a large ranch with Standardbreds. When visiting my aunt’s ranch, I was always drawn to these magnificent horses and mesmerized by their majesty. There was a horse named, āTris Loveā.Ā She was over 17-hands, was as beautiful as the most perfect sunset in the sky. She reminded me of how a dog follows their masterā¦she would follow me on the ranch! I loved herā¦gentle giant and sweet. Life changed at age 19, I was hit by a drunk driver in my car. This left me incapacitated for many years and no longer able to walk or ride. It took me many years to get well after surgeries. Now I am doing great and in my late 60ās, Iām ready to re-learn how to ride again with the help and guidance of Cornerstone Ranch, and their trainers.
2. **Riding Experience:**
– Who is your favorite horse at Cornerstone Ranch, and why do you feel a connection with this particular horse?
There are a few favorite horses I loveā¦. Lenny is my horse I train with Julia. Lenny is amazing and knows if I am uncomfortable or not balanced. This beautiful horse will slow from a trot or stop so I can re-balance. I love thanking him after each training session with a hug and kiss, and of course an organic carrot!
My next favorite horse is āFrankā (AKA Frankie). He is a massive Percheron, a giant that is so sweet and more so, loves attention. When I scratch his soft chin, his eyes close softly and he will start to drool in contentment. Love it!
My favorite of all is my āRainā. I love spending time and grooming this precious young horse. He loves, loves, loves, attention. I connect to him as my healing horse, although I am not quite experienced enough to ride him. I love to hug and talk to him as he listens to me at ease. His big beautiful eyes just look at me with such wonderment that warms my heart and soul from the craziness of life.ā
– Can you share a memorable experience you’ve had while riding?
I love the trail rides, taking you through the woods on beautiful warm, or even cold days. Just being one with a horse seems to make you feel like nothing else matters at that present time. Itās just you, the horse, and nature. Carpe diem.
3. **Training and Skills:**
– What is the most important skill you’ve learned while riding, and how has it helped you?
My goals are to re-learn how to be around horses again without fear of getting hurt. Julia is my trainer at Cornerstone Ranch. After my first lesson with her, I knew I was in very good hands. I trust Julia immensely and most importantly, I have confidence that I will build a good foundation again to be safe and ride in confidence. Cornerstone Ranchās philosophy starts with safety first, as I do. I am in my late 60ās and want to make sure I will be in safe hands while learning. Julia listened carefully to my concerns and made sure I was comfortable with everything she was teaching me. After only a couple of lessons I was very comfortable with Julia and was able to truly comprehend what she was teaching me. This is the start of my new journey with life with a horse.
– How do you prepare for a riding lesson? Do you have any special routines or rituals?
I am currently focused on learning to post while trotting. I start each day with stretching and squats to improve my balance and core engagement by utilizing the horse’s momentum.
4. **Challenges and Achievements:**
– What challenges have you faced in your riding journey, and how did you overcome them?Challenges?
Well, challenges are at every lesson. Julia builds off from what I was taught the previous week. If I have a bad day and just canāt seem to get it, (ex. Post trotting) she reassures me that I will, and does not give up on me.
5. **Community and Camaraderie:**
– How has being part of the Cornerstone Ranch riding community impacted you?
Great question, impact has been tremendousā¦be introduced to horses again has been on my bucket list for some time. It allows me to full-fill a dream.
– Are there any friendships that you’ve formed through horseback riding? How have they influenced your experience?
Yes, I have met so many people who ride at my age, and some are even older. Itās nice to know Iām not the only crazy one to do this at my age
6. **Future Goals:**
– What are your future goals in riding? Are there specific milestones you are aiming for?
My goals are to learn how to trot and canter with complete confidence. Being the age I am, I am not looking to do anything like competing, but to only get better at riding, and be more independent with horses.
7. **Fun and Personal Touch:**
– If you could ride any horse from history or fiction, who would it be and why?
The only horse I would love to ride, is Rain at Cornerstone Ranch. I am not ready for him yet and hope with all my training I will be able to someday soon. OK, well maybe Frankie too!
– What is your favorite riding memory, and what makes it special to you?
My favorite memories are many at cornerstone. First Susan and Julia, they are strong, dedicated woman who truly love what they do. If you could watch them both on any day at the ranch, you would see how they do the job of ten (10) people. Their day starts very early and ends in darkness, very exhausted, Iām sure. These lovely ladies, and the staff do this all for the animals and for individuals like my-self. Truly dedicated women.
8. **Advice and Reflection:**
– What advice would you give to new riders at Cornerstone Ranch to help them succeed?
If youāre a beginner like me, I encourage you to go for your dreams and allow the experienced and talented people at Cornerstone Ranch to help you reach your goals. Cornerstone has very experienced instructors that will guide you to reach your reachable goals.
–How do you think your experiences at Cornerstone Ranch have shaped your love for riding?
Well, I have to say every day watching all the beautiful horses run and play in the fieldā¦learning at every lesson, gives me confidence to go to another level. Also, watching Julia instruct and Susan training these beautiful creatures.
9. **Closing Thoughts:**
– Is there anything else you’d like to share about your horseback riding journey that we haven’t covered?
Thank you, Julia and Susan, for helping me overcome my fear of riding and being around horses, and for teaching me how to ride again.