The Colorado horse source is celebrating youth in action. This column features young equine enthusiasts from all over Colorado who inspire, uplift, or just have fun with horses. The future of the horse industry depends on youth participation. We look forward to sharing their stories and adventures!
If you’re 18 years old or younger and would like to participate, we invite you to share your story at: www.coloradohorsesource.com/youth-column-submission-form
Hoping to Earn a Buckle at the RSNC World Finals
What is your name and age?
Summer Williamson. I am 16.
How long have you been involved with horses?
My family has had horses my entire life, but I really didn’t get serious about riding until two years ago
Do you have an instructor or trainer?
No
What is the hardest part about owning or caring for horses?
I think the hardest part about caring for horses is catching them.
What kind of riding do you do?
I ride western and do cattle sorting.
What breed is your horse? Age? How long have you owned him?
My horse is a 17-year-old mustang. My stepsister owned him when I was young. I bought him from her two years ago.
What are your horse riding and training goals?
My goal is to qualify for the Ranch Sorting National Championships (RSNC) World Finals and to win a buckle, a saddle, or both!
Are there any accomplishments you’re especially proud of? I no longer have a fear of horses. My horse has really built my confidence. I can even stay on when he crow hops! I qualified for RSNC World Finals last year, but I didn’t finish as high as I hoped I would, but at least I got to go to Texas to compete. The trip was a memorable experience that I will never forget!
What are some obstacles/challenges you’ve had to overcome with your horse training or riding?
My biggest challenge has been learning how to keep my heels down. I also have struggled to find a saddle that doesn’t roll because my horse is very round and has no withers.
Name one or two of your heroes in the horse world – people you admire and respect. Why did you choose this person? Kris Fiser is one of my heroes. She has always been there for me as I learned how to ride better. She showed me the ropes of cattle sorting and all the little tricks there are to it. She has always been very encouraging and supportive even when I have a bad run. She has shown me what it means to be a good competitor and always treat my other teammates and the other competitors with compassion and integrity.
What is your dream career? Do you see horses in your adult life? How? My dream career would be to own a successful cattle ranch. I think I will always have horses in my life no matter what career path I choose.
See this article in the March/April 2023 online edition:
March/April 2023
The Colorado Horse Source is an independently owned and operated print and online magazine for horse owners and enthusiasts of all breeds and disciplines in Colorado and surrounding area. Our contemporary editorial columns are predominantly written by experts in the region, covering the care, training, keeping and enjoyment of horses, with an eye to the specific concerns in our region.