As a kid, some of my happiest memories were made at the barn. Riding horses taught me the meaning of trust, perseverance, and the unbreakable bond that can form between a human and an animal. Back then, I was fearless in the saddle—tackling jumps and challenges with confidence, knowing my horse and I were a team. Those days were a defining part of my childhood, and I loved every moment of it.
But life has a way of shifting our paths. When I left for college, I faced a hard reality: balancing a full-time course load with a full-time job left little time or money for the world of riding. I made the heart-wrenching decision to sell my horse. At the time, it seemed like the only option, but it’s a choice that stayed with me for years. I often wondered if I’d ever make my way back to the barn.
Decades passed, and the yearning to ride never left. Two years ago, I finally decided to stop dreaming about it and start doing something about it. I signed up for lessons, eager to find my seat again (if you know, you know). To my surprise, it all came rushing back: the rhythm of the canter, the meditative brushing of a horse’s coat, the camaraderie of the barn.
This month, I took an even bigger leap and entered my first horse shows in decades. Let me tell you: the mix of fear and exhilaration is no joke! Standing in the arena, my heart raced as I faced the course ahead. Could I still do this? Would I remember everything I’d worked on in lessons? But as I urged my horse forward, all those doubts faded. I wasn’t competing against anyone but myself—my fear, my hesitation, my inner critic.
I’m proud to say I made it through. Sure, the ribbons are nice, but they aren’t the point. The real victory is putting yourself out there, facing your fears, and rediscovering something you love.
One of the most unexpected joys of this experience has been meeting others who, like me, are returning to riding after time away. It turns out there’s a vibrant and supportive community of “re-riders”—adults rekindling their love of horses after years (or even decades) off.
If this resonates with you, let me just say: You are my people. Maybe you’ve been toying with the idea of getting back in the saddle but worry it’s too late or too daunting. I get it—I’ve been there. But let me encourage you to take the leap. Sign up for a lesson. Spend time at a barn. Let yourself remember what it feels like to ride.
The joy of riding doesn’t diminish with time. In fact, it might just grow stronger. For me, these past two years have been a lesson in reconnecting with a piece of myself I thought I’d lost. And participating in horse shows? That was the icing on the cake—a reminder that it’s never too late to follow your passion.
So here’s to fearless rides, imperfect shows, and the sheer joy of being back in the saddle. If you’re a fellow re-rider, I’d love to hear your story. Let’s cheer each other on as we rediscover the magic of horses and the strength we didn’t know we had.
Happy riding! 🐴✨