Gabrielle Adams
Chardon, Ohio
High School Junior
How long have you been part of the horse world?
I’ve been riding for 10 years. I started when I was 7 years old at summer camp. I immediately loved riding and decided to pursue private lessons and joined the 4-H club. There, I tried English, Western, contesting and even a bit of cow sorting, and soon realized my love for jumping.
What part do you play in the horse world?
I am a jumper rider and am currently showing at 1.15m. I have just completed the World Equestrian Center Ocala circuit with my horse and Chosen, a horse I had the opportunity to lease for the end of the circuit. I also have experience as a working student and have helped local trainers as a groom.
What’s your favorite thing about what you do?
There are many things I love about what I do. Jumping big fences and riding fast are some of my favorites. But that’s only one part of riding. The connection that I’ve developed between myself and my horses is amazing. Once that bond is created, it feels like my horses will do anything for me. I experienced this directly when my horse lost her eye, and after recovery I was able to fully bring her back to jumping in competition as my number two horse.
What’s your biggest achievement?
My biggest achievement was winning the 1.00m Classic at the Split Rock Jumping Tour in 2020. That achievement was two to three years in the making, as I worked on my riding skills and training the horse. My competition horse, owned by my trainer, had never been in a show ring until I started working with her, so I’m super proud of our accomplishments.
What are your goals for the future?
My current goal is to find the perfect working student position this summer where I can continue to grow and learn. Long term, I want to be a professional rider, so I’m looking for great opportunities to expand my horizons and advance my career.
What’s the best thing about your life?
The best thing about my life is my family. Although they are not equestrians, they support me fully and have made sacrifices so that I can continue to pursue my equestrian dreams. Thanks, Mom!
Best-kept secret about what you do?
My best-kept secret is my organization. I have a type-A personality and I follow a very specific routine before I enter the show ring. Another interesting fact about me is that I was born in Australia and can play the didgeridoo.
