Everyday Equestrian Spotlight: Meet Addy & Rose
A new year means new goals. One of our goals this year is to connect more with our community of equestrians. From coast to coast, we want to learn about what everyday equestrians – equestrians like you and me – are up to. What are their riding goals, what are their personal life goals, and how do they balance it all?
Our first Everyday Equestrian is 13-year-old Addison Graham. Addy is in middle school, and her life is full of classes, friends, horses, and model UN. After riding for the last 6 years, jumping for the last 4, bunches of red ribbons and even one division championship title, Addy got her first horse this past fall, Rose. This year, Addy and Rose plan on strengthening their bond as they get to know each other and explore competition outside of the hunter ring. Addy describes Rose as “a loving bay large pony with a huge mare heart.”
Last year, Addy learned that balancing school, horses and extra curriculars can be harder than it seems. “Last year, life got so busy that an ache in my foot was the last thing on my mind. The pain kept getting worse and worse - it turned out it was a stress fracture. I couldn’t ride or even walk properly for 2 months.” Luckily, Addy’s foot has fully healed and she is back in the saddle – and listening to her body more than ever.
We asked Addy if there’s one thing she could tell other riders trying to balance life with horses:
“Never ignore pain! My message to everyone would be to take good care of your health - both physical and mental! It is so important for your wellbeing and even for your horse. Horses pick up on your emotions and things like anxiety can affect their mood and behaviour. While it’s not always possible to be at 100%, making your wellbeing a priority ensures you’re showing up for both yourself and your horse in the best way possible.”
We wish Addy and Rose the best of luck this year in every show ring they step in!

3 comments
Thank you for this personal blog Addison. It brings me closer to you with each value you share.
Great Auntie Linda
We are so proud of you Addy! You have become such a capable and grounded young woman and and inspiration to us all.
Addy is so strong💞 we need more equestrians and people like her!