SInead Halpin and Manoir de Carneville at the 2014 FEI World Equestrian Games
When it comes to riding, it is all too easy to get discouraged or lose your way in chasing your dreams. Even the professionals are only human and can face these struggles. At Ecogold, we understand that the road to accomplishing your dreams can have a few too many bumps in the road, which is why our team is made up of riders that are not only insanely talented, but are wonderful people who can inspire others to chase their dreams.
It is our pleasure to introduce to you a new series where riders can share their stories about how they find their inspiration through the wisdoms, tribulations, and success stories from other riders. We asked riders who and what inspired them, and they answered! Without further ado, Ecogold is proud to present our new Riders That Inspire series:
Elizabeth Plegge
Elizabeth Plegge has long history with equestrian sports as she spent 8+ years as an upper level groom for various eventers. She currently works as a dealer for DAC supplement company and as a riding instructor at Equest Therapeutic Riding Center in Rockford, Michigan. She shared with us who inspires her.
Five years ago I knew nothing of Sinead Halpin. Most likely because I was feverishly attempting to finish a degree that I currently do not use, but I digress. Then, I read an article in US Eventing magazine. A rider named Sinead was riding at some obscure event (insert sarcasm here) in a far off place called England. There was much hype leading up to the event and many a featurette being written about loads of upper level riders the world is more than acquainted with. As I read through article, Sinead mentioned how her horse Tate was feeling tense during her warm up. Hold on. Was I reading correctly?? Did she just say she allowed Tate to walk on a long rein at the walk right before a four star dressage test??
This was everything to me. She understood her horse, listened to what her horse had to say and have him the chance to gather himself.
Sinead Halpin at 2012 Burghley Horse Trials- photo by Calina
Tate rewarded her that day with a stellar dressage test that I will never forget. I will never forget her actions that day and the superb amount of horsemanship exhibited by Sinead. That level of horsemanship for all the world to see is what inspires me to be better. Inspires me when people are watching. Inspires me when no one is watching.
– Elizabeth Plegge