Summer is finally winding down, and that means cooler temperatures are (hopefully) on the way—and with them, longer rides, more comfortable show days, and more time with our four legged friends in the great outdoors. I especially love autumn’s crisp scents: pumpkin spice, cinnamon, leaves, fire pits, dried hay, chilly air. Is there anything better?
In preparing for this issue, which I’ve been referring to as “The Long Game,” I’ve been thinking about the different seasons that we as equestrians tend to endure. There’s our Spring, which is when we initially fall in love with horses and with riding. Maybe this happened when you were a kid, or maybe this happened a little later in life, but it’s the same for all of us: a brand new world full of possibilities and exciting challenges. Our Summer typically includes all the adventures we dream about: taking long trail rides, teaching new skills, moving up the levels, trying new things. Equestrian Autumn, like “normal” autumn, is my favorite: long, relaxed days at the barn just spending time with the horses, without the pressure of a goal or level to achieve, a ribbon to chase, or a race to win. It’s the natural precursor to Winter, when we retire our beloved companions or step them down from their jobs to preserve their bodies and minds. Regardless of which season you’re in, The Long Game is something every equestrian considers and strives for along their journey.
This issue brings you stories from across the world of equestrians in different seasons of life. For some, like our cover subject Aria, summer is in full swing with an exceptionally athletic partner. For others, like the women in our featured article Built to Last (page 24), the seasons come out of order and last for indeterminate amounts of time. Every equestrian knows that when it comes to horses, nothing is guaranteed except that you don’t get guarantees.
It is my sincere hope with each installment of Modern Amateur Magazine that stories like this are not only shared with you, but show you that there is no one way to enjoy life with horses and give you the opportunity to learn all the different ways others are choosing to share their space with them. I welcome the opportunity to share your story with the community and invite you to help us spread the message of inclusion and warmth to all the horse people in your life.
To you and your horse’s health, with warmth,
