Ambassador Interviews: Megan on Switching Disciplines/Styles
Megan joins us from our home state of NY! Like many of us, she started doing on discipline and eventually changed to a new one. The thought of switching disciplines can be overwhelming to most people, so we were grateful to get her insight!
Horseplay: You originally started riding English before switching to Western. How long were you riding English before you decided to make the switch?
Megan: I rode English for about a year and a half before I decided I wanted to switch.
Horseplay: Was there anything in particular that made you want to try riding Western?
Megan: I mainly wanted to try Western because I had a lot of anxiety when I rode English and it wasn't fun anymore. I felt as if I was constantly being put down because I started riding later than all the other girls my age.
Horseplay: We're glad you're back to enjoying riding! How did you find the transition process? Was there anything that was particularly difficult or easy?
Megan: To me the transition process was easy. Since I don't own my own horse I didn't have to purchase any tack. When I decided to switch to Western I also switched barns. My cousin rides Western and she and I thought I should give it a go. To be honest, it was the most easy and relaxing thing imaginable. I finally had fun again. Even my mother, who doesn't know a mane from a forelock, said that I looked so much more relaxed. She can tell that I was focused but also having fun.
Horseplay: That's awesome! Is there a specific Western discipline you're planning on doing, or are you going to try a bit of everything?
Megan: I do plan on trying a bit of everything, but I plan on mainly taking up barrel racing!
Horseplay: We would love to hear your goals for 2018!
Megan: My goal for 2018 is to get a job paying minimum wage at 14 to have enough money for lessons and lease so my parents don't have to bend over backwards and spend money on my that they don't have. I also really want to succeed at barrel racing and do a few shows.
Horseplay: Do you have any advice for anyone thinking of switching disciplines or styles?
Megan: I would tell anybody thinking about switching disciplines to just go for it! I was thinking about switching to Western months before I left my previous barn and I really regret it. If I had switching to Western before I left there I would probably still be there and I would enjoy riding so much more!
Megan, thank you for taking the time to catch up with us! We loved hearing your insight on something that can be very stressful for many people. We're so glad you're back to enjoying riding, and that you have such a positive outlook!
