4 minute read
MACEY MILES
Macey Miles
What made you want to become an instructor/trainer?
Growing up in a family that revolved around horses, I got to see and learn first hand ever since I was little. I always knew I wanted horses in my life, I just never knew what role I would take on with them. I always knew I wanted to be a teacher of some sort. I took a break from horses after high school for a few months, but immediately felt called back. It has been the most rewarding job I could have chosen. I have such a passion for the animal and feel I can really connect a horse with a rider as a team.
What qualities do you have that helped you become successful?
I am super driven. I am like a sponge when it comes to learning, I feel you can never learn enough. I am also very intuitive and I believe that helps me with the horses and people.
What adversities have you faced as an instructor? How do you deal with them?
I was only 19 when I started teaching, so I think a lot of people looked at me differently because of my age. I looked at it from a different perspective. I knew I had a lot to learn and a lot of respect to earn, but I knew I had energy and new ideas to bring into the horse community. I had a lot of supporters on my side that helped me become confident in my skills.
What is your most successful moment as an instructor?
My most successful moment as an instructor isn’t just one moment. But, what I am most proud of is the well rounded, polite, and respectful young men and women to represent Milestone. It makes me so happy to see all of the riders and parents become best friends and in the end a family. At the end of the day that is what Milestone is, family.
How do you improve an underperforming team?
INSTILL CONFIDENCE. Confidence is key. if a rider is not confident in his or her actions, the horse will misread signals and not perform for the rider to the highest level. Practice practice practice and confidence.
MILES
Coverage by Heather Snyman
What advice would you give to older, middle-aged amateur riders who just want to enjoy their riding for as long as they can in life?
Buy the horse. Live your dreams and ride the horse! It is supposed to be a hobby for enjoyment. You have to make the most of it. Have fun!
What is your favorite part of the job?
I don’t know if I can pick one specific part, but aside from teaching and getting to know the horses and riders, I really enjoy learning from the vets. I have learned so much over the years just from watching and asking questions. I feel pretty knowledgeable in that department. I feel like the more I know about a horse and how it feels, I can help be their voice and mediator when they do not feel their best and help treat them.
Who inspires you?
My Grandparents. They are the ones who helped my dad get started in horses. They are the biggest supporters of me, my family and all things Milestone. Even though they do not get to come to shows often, they never miss watching one session online. They are always there to congratulate me after success or give me advice and love after a loss. If you are reading this, thank you for inspiring me every single day I love you both more than you know.
What is your biggest dream in equestrian sport?
I have hopes and dreams of taking over Milestone one day beside my dad. I hope to follow in his footsteps and continue to make Milestone successful. I have dreams of competing in the Five Gaited Stake Saturday night at Louisville like he did. My biggest dream is to make each rider feel special, no matter the ribbon and teach them lifelong lessons in and out of the ring
