There are stories of athletes from all walks of life and experiences — all being celebrated and rewarded for their hard work and talent, a refreshing and excellent reason for fame in this day and age. Amidst the controversy, discrepancies and politics, the right parts of the Olympics are inspiring and entertaining. I’m even reminded of being a child, dreaming of what that might be like someday.
I started my riding career as an 8-year-old in an English saddle and thought stadium jumping was the coolest thing on the planet. Sitting atop my postage stamp saddle on the back of a thin-skinned, spooky Thoroughbred, I dreamed about traveling around the world and jumping for a living. I had the guts and desire, and time was on my side. What I didn’t have was the funding. So, my dream ended around 11 years old when I realized I would have to save and buy my own horse. So, I ended up with an undersized Arabian instead of an imported Hanoverian.
Now, I’m about as far away from jumping oxers as I am hurtling a shotput. I fell in love with cow horses and saddles with rope straps, and they’ve carried me to many places. But viewing these big, seasoned warmbloods and their incredible riders, I realize what a special sport we all share. Western, English, bareback or in hand, we are equestrians! We can bypass age limitations. There is no discrepancy in gender, and every level of experience can enjoy a challenge. Our beloved horse has enchanted people of all walks and from all places — yes, even including Snoop Dogg.
In comparison to the other sports, I don’t think it’s a giant leap to see the parallels in our cowboy world. The amount of work and dedication we put into our craft will shake out on the other side. You don’t become a good roper by not practicing. But sheer work isn’t always the answer. It’s having the right team, taking opportunities when given, and incorporating our talents and passions into attainable goals.
A lot of us are not competitive, but the Olympics serves to inspire, regardless. Injuries take patience and the right kind of attention and healing. Setbacks often have silver linings. We can do what we love and still make a living if we go about it the right way. And sometimes, as with the Olympics, just being there and knowing you won’t be taking home the gold is still considered an incredible win.
I still have an English saddle, though it’s a little dusty. I ride in it once in a while, mostly to work on my equitation and balance and to change things up. It also helps remind me that there’s still a giddy, gutsy kid hiding in my overworked self, chasing the thrill of clearing fences and loving the fact that I’m involved with something I admire so much.
Sports fan or not, there’s something exciting about watching the Summer Olympic Games (plus — air conditioning!) And that torch that burns for 16 days in Paris, France, representing athletes from all walks of life, should ignite a little something in all of us rodeo-lovin’ folks, too.
Unless you’re my 4-year-old son, and you’ve been a little too inspired by Simone Biles (only instead of the balance beam, it’s off the back of your pony).
I’m ok with that flame being — well, extinguished.
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