Elyse

How many years have you been riding horses and what sparked your interest?

"I have been riding for about four years. I don't remember how I got interested, but when I did, in sixth grade, my mom searched into attending horseback riding lessons and she found PFF. I remember Gracie was the first horse I ever rode. I can remember telling my mom that I never wanted to quit riding and that I would ride till I die. I remember coming to PFF with major butterflies. Sometimes, I still get them back. I remember how big I thought Gracie was and her gentle attitude, it was love at first sight-even though I am sure she didn't love me the same. My first ride, I remember going up the little slope to the top arena and Corrine telling me she didn't believe that I had never ridden before. I think she was just being nice! The rest I cannot remember of my first lesson, except how much fun it was. I couldn't wait till my next lesson … a whole week away."

Which horse has taught you the most?

"It is hard to pick one because every horse I ever rode taught me their own special thing. I believe I would have to pick Jason and Angel. I still remember how much trouble I would have with that darn right lead! They taught me to have soft, but firm hands. Also, they taught me how to get along and not fight."

What do you love most about riding?

"I love that special connection between you and the horse, and of course it is so much fun. I think jumping is personally my favorite part of riding, although I love to ride bareback."

What would you like to accomplish in the next year?

"Within the next year I would like to be able to get Rosie on the bit all the way and a little bit of self carriage. Also, I would like to attend more horse shows if possible."

What goal would you like to reach within the next five years?

"It is hard to say what goal I would like to reach in the next five years for I will be attending some college, that I am not even sure of yet. For sure I will always try to find someway to ride. A week without riding is no week at all!"

Grace   Elyse has it in every sense of the word. She is our number one working student and a favorite of our students and horses. Sweet natured, friendly and helpful, Elyse has a great attitude on and off a horse. This year Elyse had the opportunity to half lease Julie Fischer's mare, Rosie. A combination of hard work and chemistry between horse and rider took them to the top of their Hunter and Equitation division at the SCHC shows in Vista. Thanks to Julie's generosity and some great team effort, we were able to do a last minute scramble to enter Elyse in the Greater San Diego Championship show in Del Mar. Elyse did us proud as she was high score in her first Green Rider Hunter round and Reserve Champion overall in the division of more than 40 riders! Congratulations Elyse and Rosie!
With style and grace, Elyse can accomplish anything she sets her mind to!

-- Patty Morton, Pathfinder Farm