Where Are They Now? - Bridgid Browne
Status: Professional
After the YR Dream Program: Lived in Germany for a year and a half to ride and train.
Where She is Now: Based in Nashville, TN, and won the 2023 U.S. Dressage Finals Open 4th Level Freestyle Championship with her 8-year-old mare, Karina Sandra TF.
In July 2019, I was fortunate enough to be selected for The Dressage Foundation’s Young Rider International Dream Program, along with three other accomplished Young Riders. Little did I know, this trip to Europe would spark a small flame that led to a major life alteration.
I was enamored by the polish and precision that was put into every aspect of the competition: the ceremonies, the riding, the presentation. In the stadium, you could feel the crowd pulling for the riders, and hoping for the best outcome for every single one of them. Even though many of the spectators were not necessarily “horse people,” everyone had a respect for the effort, sacrifice, and love that the riders, owners, grooms, and supporters had poured into making Aachen one of the most prestigious competitions throughout the year.
I felt more captivated throughout the week with every aspect of Germany, and Europe in general, and of its dedication to the sport. I remember thinking, “I could live here…quite happily.” And if I have learned anything in this industry it is: Where there’s a will, there’s a way.
Fast forward three months and I was accepted to participate in the NEDA Fall Symposium with Dorothee Schneider, who we had watched compete in Aachen on her famous Olympic ride, Showtime. Of course, I was in awe of the chance to ride with one of the top riders in the world; it felt like a small taste of Aachen all over again. Her technique and style resonated with me that weekend. We had a few small chats and next thing I knew, I was making plans to move to Germany.
At the time, I was a working student for Shannon Stevens and Marcus Orlob of Elite Expression Dressage, who were incredibly supportive of pushing me to follow my goals and dreams. I was lucky enough to be supported by my trainers, friends, and family to chase this crazy dream and make it a reality. Living in Germany for a year and a half to ride and train was an irreplaceable experience that shaped me as the rider and horsewoman I aspire to be, no matter if it is my career or hobby.
I am now living in the Nashville area, working in medical sales and riding my 8-year-old mare, Karina Sandra TF, who has been the best partner along this whole crazy journey. She competed this year in Prix St. Georges and Fourth level, and we recently won the open 4th Level Freestyle at the US Dressage Finals.
My advice to any young rider is to go chase those crazy ideas and dreams, work for it, and be grateful to those along the way who help make dreams become a reality. The Dressage Foundation played a major part in making this accessible, thanks to the generosity of its donors. Without them I don’t know if that little spark would have been ignited in the same way.
Your donation to the Young Rider Dream Program by the end of December 2023 will be automatically doubled by Margaret Duprey and her Cherry Knoll Farm! Please give today!
Photos by Susan J Stickle
