Where Are They Now? - Haley Smith
Status: Professional
After the YR Dream Program: During a trip to Denmark, was scouted by sports manager Ulrik Sørensen of Blue Hors Stable to be a new international rider for the team. Spent three months training at their stable in Randbøldal, riding horses of all different ages and levels.
Where She is Now: Currently training under Steffen Peters in San Diego, California, and works for ClipMyHorse.tv.
Photo by Terri Miller
If I were to give advice to any young equestrian eager to accomplish their dreams, it would be to pursue as many opportunities as imaginable—these opportunities will serve as the stepping stones to your career. I am incredibly grateful to have been a part of The Dressage Foundation’s Young Rider Dream Program at the start of my dressage career. As a previous international vaulting athlete with multiple FEI medals, one of the biggest takeaways throughout my career was to soak up knowledge and understanding from as many people around me as possible. There are lessons to be taught and knowledge to be gained at all times throughout your career.
Whether you are speaking to an FEI Steward at the in-gate of your round or the feed clerk at your local supply store, I urge each of us to stay open-minded, ask as many questions as possible and be open to listening and engaging thoughtfully. These were a sample of the lessons taught to us while taking part in the Young Rider Dream Program. Our team traveled to numerous stables, competitions, and homes of equestrians, seeking knowledge that just may be the key to each of our pursuits throughout our sport.
After the Young Rider Dream Program, I was on an overseas trip in Denmark where I was scouted by sports manager Ulrik Sørensen of Blue Hors Stable to be a new international rider for the team. I spent three incredible months training at their stable in Randbøldal, riding horses of all different ages and levels. This unforgettable opportunity helped me to gain invaluable experience and knowledge that I will hold near and close throughout my career in dressage.
I am currently training under Steffen Peters in San Diego, CA, with my continued position with ClipMyHorse.tv and look forward to a very bright future in the equestrian world.
Thank you to The Dressage Foundation for uplifting and inspiring the next generation of U.S. equestrian athletes.
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!
