The Entrepreneurial Spirit in Equestrian Sports

When people think of professional equestrians, they often picture us in the ring, competing with our horses. But behind every successful athlete is the hard work of running a business—and that’s certainly been the case for me. Building and managing Mountain King Ranch has been one of the most rewarding and challenging experiences of my life. Today, I want to share a few of the key lessons I’ve learned from running my own equestrian business, and how entrepreneurship and equestrianism go hand-in-hand.

Lesson 1: Leadership is Key At Mountain King Ranch, my role as a leader is just as important as my role as a rider. Managing a team of dedicated professionals, overseeing horse care, and making critical business decisions all require strong leadership skills. One thing I’ve learned is that a successful business, like a successful competition, depends on clear communication and a shared vision. Everyone on my team understands our goals and how we’re working together to achieve them.

Lesson 2: Balance Passion with Strategy Running a farm is a labor of love, but it’s also a business. There’s a balance between the passion I have for the sport and the strategic thinking required to ensure the business thrives. This means constantly analyzing finances, making smart investments in horses and equipment, and keeping up with the latest industry trends.

The same way I plan for a competition, I plan for the future of the farm. Where do I see Mountain King Ranch in the next five years? How can I improve our operations to support both the horses and the business? These are questions I’m always asking myself.

Lesson 3: Innovation and Adaptability The equestrian industry is constantly evolving, and it’s important to stay ahead of the curve. Whether it’s implementing new training techniques, investing in cutting-edge equipment, or exploring innovative ways to manage horse health, adaptability is key to success. One of my goals at Mountain King Ranch is to always stay open to new ideas and be willing to adapt as the industry changes.

Running Mountain King Ranch has taught me countless lessons in leadership, strategy, and innovation. Just like in the showjumping ring, success in business comes from preparation, hard work, and a commitment to continuous improvement. As I continue to grow both my equestrian career and my business, I’m excited to see what new challenges and opportunities lie ahead.