The equestrian world often highlights professionals, top riders, and those on the fast track to success. But what about the everyday riders—the ones juggling work, school, and life, while still making time for the sport they love? That’s exactly what the Everyday Equestrians Blog series is all about.
In this edition, we’re featuring Gray Clink, a 19-year-old hunter-jumper rider who’s found a way to balance riding with running multiple businesses and being a full-time student. Like so many equestrians, Gray’s journey hasn’t been straightforward, but with determination and passion, he’s making it all work.
Gray’s riding journey was a much like many others – with an introduction to horses, a break, and then a head-over-heels love for the sport. Gray began riding around 7 years old as a saddleseat rider, before taking a break just as long, and returning to the equestrian world as a hunter/jumper. Gray now leases Paislee, a Warmblood paint mare. This year, we look forward to seeing them in the jumper ring!
As a content creator, full-time student and small business owner, Gray has a lot to juggle. I thought I had a full plate with a full-time job and running CL on the side, but it’s a cake walk compared to Gray’s schedule. How does he pursue an Associate’s degree in business administration, run three businesses (a clothing business, a photography business and a social media management company), work part-time on the weekends and make it out to the barn? We asked.
“Time management is definitely my middle name. I've become that friend who needs a two-week notice for any hangouts—sorry, guys! It may seem a little annoying, but my friends totally get it and support me through my busy business endeavors. Honestly, burnout does hit me sometimes, especially since my clients need work seven days a week, making it tough to carve out time for myself. But I’ve learned to cherish the simple moments, like taking a walk with my dog or washing my face at night. Finding joy in the little things helps me keep going!”
We figured such an ambitious young rider would have some big goals, and we were right. Gray hopes to some day build his own barn and have his own horses, combining his experience acquired in the equestrian world with the knowledge gained from an education in business to pursue yet another business venture. In the meantime, Gray has his sights set on competing in the 1.20m and 1.30m classes on the California circuit.
We often hear about time management and juggling it all when we speak to Everyday Equestrians. Gray is no exception to that rule, but he does have some words of wisdom to share to anyone who may be considering any of the many paths he has taken:
“Take the leap, take those business risks while you're still young. Seize every opportunity that comes your way—you never know where connections might lead. It can feel tough, even impossible, to imagine a future in this sport, but remember, hard work and dedication will catch the right people's eyes. At the same time, don't forget to make time for yourself. Burnout can drag on for months, leaving you feeling lethargic and exhausted every single day if you push too hard. It’s okay to take it easy sometimes—spend a day in bed watching content you love, hang out with your pets, or go shopping with friends. We often push ourselves hard, but it's just as important to take care of yourself.”
A combination of hard work, determination and self-care sounds like a great way to get anything done. If Gray’s experiences sound relatable, you are not alone. The world of horses is made up of incredibly tough people who are doing their best to do it all, and we see you. If you’re an Everyday Equestrian, juggling it all or doing your best, we want to hear your story. Reach out to us and let’s show the hard working juniors and adult ammies just how seen they are.
Photo caption: Gray in his favourite CL Established Crewneck in ROYAL.