2018 Miniature Horse World Magazine WINTER 2018 Volume 34, Number 8 | Page 33

Then in 2011, as a thirteen- year-old, I was looking for a new challenge for the new division. I was gifted La Vista Allure by MG, loved as Mardi by Lisa. Mardi is the first horse that I have trained entirely on my own. Through the trials and errors and the knowledge I have learned through trainers and my own experiences, I was able to incorporate my equine skills into Mardi. Every day, I would go out into my backyard to work and train him. He indeed became an amazing all- around horse. Together we had a very successful youth career, taking titles in Showmanship, Hunter, Driving, One-Horse Combination, and many High- Point Awards. It doesn’t stop here, my desire to learn never quits. There is always more information and knowledge to obtain. I feel very fortunate that the Miniature horse industry is there with open arms; people are willing to help teach others to be successful in this industry. After high school graduation in 2016, my mom gifted me a trip to California to see Bryce Baker, Shawn Hester, and Rachel Nolan of Piece of Me Miniatures. This opportunity provided me with knowledge and friendships that will last forever. The following summer, I got another opportu- nity to intern with Mike and Alli- son Rosauer of Stars Miniatures, where I learned the importance of consistency, connections, and confidence. I am forever grateful that I had the chance to build re- lationships with so many people in this industry. They all have performed a tremendous role in who I am today. This year, was my first year in amateur. I applied all of the knowledge I have learned into perfecting Mardi as a driving horse. I had set goals, and they reached beyond my belief. Mardi was awarded the 2018 Amateur Reserve World Grand Classic Pleasure Driving Horse. This being my first time to show in a World Grand Driving class, I was ecstatic that my first chance at this award was with the horse I trained, showed, and presented. Mardi also won the 2018 T.W. Glosser Ideal Gelding Award, a prestigious and special award that we are very honored to have received. I have learned many lessons in this industry some more include, being afraid of going through a gate in obstacle class because of a spider, another being my pants almost falling to the ground in hunter class. However, all these memories have provided me with personal growth. My struggles have led to strength, perseverance, and being a goal-setter. I now enjoy providing a helping hand to the youth in AMHA. If you ever see me around, I will be happy to offer any knowledge I have learned through my own involvements to you. AMHA has been an integral part of who I am and will forever be significant to me. Thank you, to everyone who has been a part of, or watched my journey in this industry. I appreciate all of the “little Bridget memories” that have been told. Today, I am a junior at Texas A&M University studying Construction with a minor in Soil Science. My focus has now shifted more towards school, but horse-crazy girls like me won’t stay away long. Photos by Casey McBride Breeding, training and showing the Miniature horse since 1980. Producer of World Champions. Quality Miniatures available. Located in the beautiful Sierra Mountains. We ship world wide. AMHA, AMHR, ASPC, ASPR & Modern Judge Kim & Steve Sterchi 16242 Tierra Rd. • Grass Valley, CA 95949 Phone [phone] [email protected] www.sierraminiaturehorses.com W I N T E R 2018 Miniature Horse World 31