Every rider has that one trainer. The one that finally makes sense, where your world flips and suddenly you know how to ride. The one that re-lights the fire in your soul, and sparks your passion for riding. The trainer that changes your world.

Dear Coach,

Thank you. When you came into my life I was battered and a lot broken. I was scared to tell you "no", and terrified of trusting myself. I had trainers who didn't believe in me. Trainers who have ignored me and were more concerned about other riders and that happens. You can't always be the star of everyone's show, but I've never been the star of any show. I've never had a trainer build my confidence. I remember the first time I walked into your arena with the other riders in my class. I was a freshman and my last trainer and I had a huge blow up, so I was a little "trainer-shy". You asked us all about our riding history and hearing mine you looked at me shocked. You told me "you can always tell me no" and you took the time to regain my confidence.

You built me back up and showed me how to really ride. You supported me through my failures and you never made me feel like I couldn't do it. You supported my dreams and never laughed at me (unless I was doing something strange). You encouraged me to give it a shot, and to keep going until I accomplished my goals.

You gave me the confidence to compete again, and I thank you for that. I'm a better rider for having known you. I know I can always ask you questions, no matter how silly they may seem, and I know I can always tell you no. You've taught me how to ride and how to become a better partner for my horse and I owe everything to you. My horse and I would be nowhere without your encouragement. So thank you for everything you've done for me.

Sincerely,

Cecilia/Cecilly/That One/Louis's Rider