I started riding when I was ten years old at a local riding stable in a Rhode Island state park, (Goddard Park for those Rhode Islanders) so you can imagine the fun I had riding the trails that hugged the coastline and practicing the basic skills in the ring. When I was twelve, I received a Welsh pony for Christmas who carried me to many wins in the Rhode Island circuit from pet trail pony to pony hunter. I spent every spare minute taking care of my pony from feeding/grooming to cleaning the stall and training for shows. Once I outgrew my pony, I rode all different types of horses and ponies and trained at Fieldholme Farms in Barrington, RI in my junior years. I have many fond memories of the horses, my trainer and the early mornings getting ready for shows.

Riding is such a special and unique sport because you are working with a live animal and all its nuances. The human/horse bond is so powerful, and it can teach you so much about being in tune with your fears, emotions and more. In addition, riding helps you develop and build your human relationships – from your trainer, to owner (in some cases) to fellow equestrians and even your non-equestrian friends. I also like the constant care and routine of horses – it is therapeutic on so many levels.  

In my youth I had the pleasure of riding all throughout Rhode Island, Connecticut and Massachusetts and as an adult, I even lived and rode in Nassau, Bahamas for two years (see photos). The Bahamas has an active horse scene and holds annual shows during the winter season. I leased a horse, Sammy, who is a thoroughbred/quarter horse cross, and we showed adult equitation and hunter. I’ve also ridden in Bermuda and in Germany and strongly recommend if you get a chance to ride in other parts of the world – to go for it! I am planning a dude ranch trip this summer to Wyoming, to embrace the Western world and ride the open country.

I came up with the idea for The Tech Equestrian blog years ago given my background in technology marketing, writing (I’m a published author) and of course horseback riding. Although at the time, the tech world had not entered the horse world yet. Last year, in early January I decided it was time and ended up interviewing and writing about 30 horse tech companies to start educating the world on what’s new and what’s next. It’s an exciting time to see all the new entries from apps to wearables to online tools and products all designed to help with horse health and care. I hope you take some time to explore what I’ve covered at: www.thetechequestrian.com.

Ariat Heritage Zip Ladies Paddock boots; I have them in both black and brown; I have a high arch, so they feel really comfortable and support my foot and standing in them for a while doesn’t bother me.

Kerrits Ladies Performance Riding Tights – perfect for exercise riding in tropical weather.

Equiline “E” belt – the leather is like butter!

I love wearing gloves (in any weather, especially in the heat because my hands sweat) and wear traditional black SSG’s.

Samshield Helmet – I love a little bling – so the Shadowmatt Swarovski Crystal Helmet does the trick! (I had a bad riding accident, so I never get on a horse without a helmet – you just never know!)

I can’t share favorite apps, because I write about them on the blog and have to be vendor neutral – but I encourage you to check them out - there are so many amazing ones to choose from!  www.thetechequestrian.com