06/05/2026
Yesterday, I introduced a new team, but today I want to recognize a team that has been building something special over the past few months.
Ella and Shasta weren’t originally supposed to be a team. After Ella lost her heart horse last year and then faced complications with another, Shasta stepped in for Ella’s senior year on the equestrian team.
Learning a new horse is never easy. Learning a new horse while also taking on new divisions and patterns is even more challenging. But Ella met every challenge with determination, hard work, and a willingness to learn.
Shasta did her part too—though she certainly didn’t make it easy! She pushed Ella to work harder, communicate more clearly, and develop patience along the way. Together, they learned to trust each other and grow as partners.
Watching these two come together as a team has been incredibly rewarding. Shasta had some very big shoes to fill and may never truly replace the horse that came before her, but watching her give her whole heart to a rider who gives her whole heart right back has been something special.
Ella, I am so proud of everything you have accomplished, but even more proud of the rider and horsewoman you have become. Your dedication, resilience, and commitment have truly paid off.
Congratulations on finishing your senior year of equestrian team competition with a 1st and 2nd place finish at the State Championships! 🤩🩷🐴🏆
