Whether involved in horses professionally or as an amateur competitor, sharing the sport you love with your children can be among the most rewarding aspects of equestrian sport. For mothers there is always a sacrifice of self in pursuit of raising a human who can go off on their own into the world as a well-adjusted, kind and compassionate member of the community.
To balance life, health, finances, relationships, and time in the saddle can be difficult at times, but here are the stories of a few mothers who have made sacrifices that have paid off ten-fold. While horses will teach responsibility, humility, work ethic and compassion, the most rewarding aspect of riding with your children may be the most fleeting of all moments in parenthood – time spent together.
Cheryl & Kassidy: Team Effort
Although she received help from many of the industry’s top professionals en route to wins as a junior in the Jump Canada Medal Finals and CET Finals at the 2015 Royal Winter Fair and being named the 2015 Canadian Junior Equestrian of the Year, Kassidy Keith, 24, says the never-ending support and guidance of her mother has been the biggest catalyst to her success. Kassidy grew up around horses in BC – her mom Cheryl Keith is a professional trainer and rider and was named the BCHJA Coach of the Year in 2016.