Lori Ross
Mother, Horsewoman, Friend by Kara Larson
“Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” – Mary Oliver
W
hen someone chooses to live life doing what they love, nothing can stop them. At times, it may not be the practical, safe choice, but they live every day fulfilled— because for them, passion beats practicality, and there’s no better feeling than that. These are the ones fueled by genuine drive, individuals who set out to share their passion and achieve great things.
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The first thing you need to know about Lori Ross is that she is, at her core, a dream chaser. Long ago, she chose to live her life doing what she loved most—working with horses. She connected with the horse early in life and with the support of her parents, especially her mother, Mary Ann, Lori listened to her inner compass when it advised to keep riding the trail. This lead to a lifetime of horse shows where Mary Ann, Lori, and her daughters, Paige and Lindsey—three generations of horsewomen—came together to work hard and support each other. She has touched many lives in her proudest identities of horsewoman, mother and friend. There are riders all over the country who have learned a great deal from her natural abilities with horses, myself included. Her two lovely daughters, Paige and Lindsey, are proud to call her their mother. And a considerable amount of people have shared laughter and conversation as friends of Lori. No matter which category someone falls into, there are meaningful parallels and common themes to the way Lori lives her life and interacts with those close to her.
Top left, clockwise: Lori's many riding accomplishments: with Gia-Diamonds Extrordinare, 1975 National Champion Saddle Seat Equitation; El Rae Shazar, U.S. National Reserve Champion Ladies Side Saddle; Half-Arabian English Pleasure Horse, Dancing Shoes; and with daughter Paige and mom Mary Ann, at National Show Horse Finals.
As a former student of Lori’s, I am honored to act as the facilitator of these stories. To be able to share the perspectives of the people who have found a wealth of knowledge and love in Lori’s abilities and friendship is a beautiful thing.
One of Lori’s oldest friends is Carla Schindler, an Iowa native who began her journey with horses in the hunter jumper division, but as soon as she discovered the Arabian horse at the age of 16, Carla never looked back. As she explored the Iowa show scene, she met Lori through their mutual coach, Carol Stohlman—and they became fast friends. Over the next several years, they would travel the country and Canada together, riding and showing and selling horses with the best of them. Carla remembers, “Lori’s parents hitched up the two-horse trailer and Lori and I crashed in the back seat as we drove all night to the horse show. And then we showed all weekend and drove all night back. I spent a number of years in that environment and her parents encouraged her—she had the talent.” In Carla’s eyes, this talent was special. “She was able to quickly assess her horse’s abilities and what she needed to do to make it look the best—and I think that transformed into her instruction style. I think she has a way of assessing people’s true abilities and how to get it out of them quickly.” Carla adds, “Whether it’s a 45-year-old beginner amateur, a 16-year-old advanced saddle seat rider, or a 10-year-old walk/trot rider, she always has the ability to communicate exactly what needs to get done and it amazes me.” Over the years, and in traveling to many horse shows together, Carla took on the role of cheerleader and second rail person for Lori when she needed an extra pair of eyes and another voice for encouragement. Carla recalls classes where six of the 20 saddle seat riders were Lori’s students, and in those times, Carla was the perfect assistant armed with a certain set of instructions from Lori. And for her best friend, Carla was happy to do it. Lori and Carla spent a good part of their teenage and college years enjoying each others’ company rooming together at horse shows, waking up at 5 A.M. to prepare the equitation horses for their early morning classes, and beyond the horse world, they were there for each other through good times Ar abian Horse Times | 2 | Lori Ross 2017
and bad. “I’m totally grateful to have Lori in my life, both as a friend and as a horseman. I would never have continued down the path as long as I did,” says Carla. “Lori and I went through high school, college years, boyfriends, breakups, marriages, divorces, kids and such, so we’ve been through a lot. Whether it’s valuing her friendship or her abilities as a horseman, it’s the same. She’s sincere; she’s honest. And she’s one of the most caring and open people I know.”
Jessica Maldonado says that if you ask her parents, “horse” was one of the first words out of her mouth. She laughs, “Much to their dismay, I never outgrew the horse phase.” Today, Jessica and her whole family enjoy the vast spectrum of the Arabian industry—from breeding to showing, to and everything in between—but it all began with Lori Ross. And they were brought together by chance. As luck would have it, Jessica’s dad just happened to work with someone whose daughters rode with Lori at Saqqara Arabians. Before this encounter, Jessica had been taking lessons at a local Saddlebred barn, but they decided to stop by Lori’s barn to check it out. Jessica admits, “We never looked back, and our journey with Arabian horses began that day.” As a young rider, Jessica holds dear many memories riding with Lori at her Des Moines farm. Jessica remembers that Lori would usually give all students private lessons during the week, so Saturdays meant group lessons that were divided by age and experience. “I remember as a young walk-trot rider watching the older riders in awe,” reflects Jessica. “I truly think those group lessons were one of Lori’s greatest gifts as an instructor. It not only helped us learn how to navigate around horses and practice patterns in a class-like setting, but we were able to use it as inspiration to push ourselves to always get better and reach for the next level.”
Lori, Stephanie Walter Douglass and Jessica Walter Maldonado. Like so many students before and after her, Jessica feels great appreciation for the world that Lori showed her, realizing that the memories and friendships created at Saqqara have lasted a lifetime. Over the years, Jessica has become an effectual advocate for the Arabian horse, and as such, she understands the value in being introduced to the Arabian horse through the kind, considerate eyes of Lori Ross. Jessica begins, “Lori should be very proud of the honesty and integrity that she’s shown throughout her career. It’s easy to focus on the negative in the industry and the few bad actors, and we need to do more to celebrate people like Lori that make great decisions for the right reasons. As an instructor, horse trainer, judge, volunteer in her local club, etc., Lori always acts with the best interest of horses and exhibitors in mind. She makes the right decisions even if she knows they won’t be popular or the easiest decision for her personally. She’s always been careful to match her students with horses that are safe and affordable for their families, and she’s always been honest when selling a horse with issues. She’s left a great legacy of successful riders, but the mentor and great example she set for them should be remembered as well.”
Lori with Bonfire Princess.
Keeping it in the family, Jessica’s younger sister, Stephanie Douglass, also grew up taking lessons with Lori. In fact, as Stephanie recalls, she was essentially born into horses as Jessica was already taking lessons when she was born. Riding under the guidance and wisdom that Lori shared over the years, Stephanie has an inside perspective into Lori’s skills as an instructor. Stephanie shares, “Lori’s ability to coach an individual from the ground is something so unique to her, that I haven’t Ar abian Horse Times | 3 | Lori Ross 2017
seen it replicated. I think it’s what makes her one of the best instructors in the country.” She adds, “Whether Lori is extremely familiar with a horse you are riding or if you’re catch-riding one, she is able to offer incredible insight and pointers. I still look for her on the rail today as an adult amateur!” Stephanie finds happiness and pride in many horse-related memories, but there are a couple that stand out. The first happened at Canadian Nationals in 2000 when Jessica won the Saddle Seat Equitation 14-17 and Stephanie won the Saddle Seat Equitation 13 & Under on the same horse, a horse who was incredibly special to Stephanie’s family and to Lori. However, Stephanie’s favorite memory came later. She shares, “When I exited the ring after completing a difficult pattern on Second Editions Debut at Region 11, Lori had tears in her eyes at the end gate. You don’t see Lori cry too often, so that was something I will never forget!” Stephanie believes that Lori has helped so many students like her achieve their wildest dreams, and more importantly, helped so many realize their love for the Arabian horse. Stephanie recalls her family spending countless nights and weekends at the barn together and their family “vacations” being horse shows. Stephanie expands, “Rather than spending the majority of our time at individual sports for Jessica and me, we got to spend our time together and we owe so much of that to Lori. Our love for the Arabian horse began at Lori’s barn in Des Moines, and we owe so much of our 30+ years in the Arabian industry to her.” With growing distance from where she started in the Arabian industry, Stephanie has the hindsight to know just how much Lori’s support and advice shaped her. “I don’t think her instruction was only integral to the horsewoman I am, but to the person I am in general,” begins Stephanie. “The influence growing up around the Arabian industry has had on me as a person is indescribable, and Lori was the one who laid the
Lori judging a show with Van Jacobsen and Jack Thomas. foundation for everything. She has helped shape me into the person I am today and I am forever grateful.”
One of Lori’s closest working relationships-turned-friendship comes through Deb McGuire, owner and head trainer at Performance Plus Arabians (PPA) in Sioux Falls, S.D. Like Lori, Deb knew early on that she wanted to train horses professionally. And today, more than 40 years later, she still loves what she does and doesn’t regret a moment of her life with horses. In Deb’s relationship with horses, she values their essence. “The spirit that comes from the horse is the most enjoyable. They are just all so different—and so are people, but you can gain a better understanding with an animal sometimes than what you can with people.” Deb thinks that Lori connects with the horse in a similar way because of the type of person she is, sharing, “Lori has a serenity about herself—I think that’s why we’ve become such good friends.” Deb appreciates her truthfulness, her honesty, and adds, “It’s a rare person to be truthful, but not harsh. She’s got a big heart.” Though Deb has known Lori since they were kids, their working relationship began somewhere around 2002. As Deb began to draw in new clients and started taking more students to big shows like Youth Nationals, she reached out to Lori to add another dimension to her training. Deb remembers warmly sharing stalls and spending time with Lori’s whole family at many Youth Nationals—her mother, Mary Ann, and Paige and Lindsey as well.
Deb McGuire and Lori Ross with Youth Nationals winners (front, l-r): Katherine Kirby, Liz Steffes and Paige and Lindsey Ross.
As a secondary trainer and fresh set of eyes for Deb’s students, Lori brought a new angle to each horse and rider team. Deb shares, “She had a really good demeanor—very positive. She always had something
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encouraging to say, which really helped me to become more positive and not so critical of my riders.” Deb and Lori’s styles and strengths were similar, but different enough to be complementary to one another. Deb continues, “I think we complemented each other so well because Lori really concentrated on the upper body and I was really a seat and legs person. So, together we were able to work on the whole picture.” Beyond their successful teamwork in training and instructing young riders, Deb respects Lori’s dedication to the Arabian horse. As a longtime judge and a horsewoman who values the integrity of honest competition, Deb admires Lori’s fervor in being an impartial voice for the horse. Deb offers, “She was very influential at Convention and through the Equitation committee; knowledgeable in the rules and an exceptionally good judge, too. Lori has always been an advocate for the Arabian horse and the future of the industry. She always tried to make things fairer for everyone involved.”
One of the students that enjoyed the benefits of the complementary styles of Lori and Deb was Katherine Kirby, who began her riding career at Performance Plus Arabians at the age of 9. In the beginning, Katherine remembers Lori giving clinics at PPA. She shares, “After my first lesson with Lori, I remember thinking how fortunate I was to get to work with such a talented instructor. I hung on to every piece of advice she gave me, and still do even 10 years later. She helped all of us pursue our dreams.” As Katherine continued to work with Lori alongside Deb, she progressed quickly in all divisions she showed in, but most notably in the hunt seat equitation division. Over the years, she enjoyed great success with their guidance, learning and growing with the horse. Today, Katherine’s show career continues and consists of countless epic show ring performances in both saddle and hunt seat—and she now realizes what made Lori such a pleasure to work with. She relates, “Lori is successful at what she does because she has such an eye for quality in a horse and what it takes to ride each horse and present them at their best. She relates easily to everyone she is around and is liked and respected by all who associate with her.”
Deb McGuire, Kara Larson, Lori and Katherine Kirby.
Performance Plus Arabians at Youth Nationals. Katherine feels proud to have been a student of Lori’s, sharing, “I’m so honored to say that I had the privilege to be one of her students for over six years. Not only is she an incredible coach, but a remarkable woman to be around. She taught me to never give up and when I felt like I had given it my all, to give just a little bit more.” Katherine adds, “Lori should have a lot of pride in the skills that she bestowed upon her riders. She has a unique instructing talent that is hard to equal.”
One of Lori’s younger students is Karyln Connolly, a 15 year old rider from Mount Vernon, Iowa. “She’s been there from the very beginning,” shares Karlyn. She adds, “I would describe Lori as the kindest, most dedicated person I know. She is one person that truly loves what she is doing and wants to make her riders the best that they can be.” As a young rider, it’s easy for Karlyn to pick up on Lori’s passion. In every lesson, she senses the depth of her enthusiasm and knowledge. And yet, she also appreciates the fact that throughout the entire demanding, gratifying process, Lori keeps her patience and wits about her. Karlyn explains, “What I love about taking lessons with Lori is that someone is teaching me who really loves their job and honestly wants to see me succeed. Lessons are intense, but fun. After every lesson I am sore and tired, but excited to come back and get better. Lori is able to find the good in what a rider has done that day and doesn’t dwell on the bad, but rather tries to improve it the next time.” Lori has always and continues to impress Karlyn as an instructor. From Karlyn’s vantage point, Lori’s patience is seemingly endless. And more than that, the older that Karlyn gets, the more she is able to realize how great of a teacher Lori is. Through her instruction, Karlyn has learned how to truly connect with a horse, and in essence, how to ride with confidence while gaining a plethora of horsemanship skills. “I believe that riders should truly love their horses, not just showing, and I think Lori exemplifies this idea.” Karlyn continues, “She prepped me to be the best I could be in the ring, but no matter how I did, she just wanted me to have
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horses well past their youth careers, and is also why so many of her riders are still so successful today.” While Katie truly appreciates all Lori did for her in her youth career and beyond, she is able to understand the larger picture—the widespread web of successful riders that were lucky enough to receive Lori’s instruction. Katie begins, “Lori has trained and coached some of the best riders in the country for decades and, more importantly, she has helped countless children (lesson kids and national champions alike) to grow and develop and become valuable members of society.” She adds, “Lori doesn’t just create a pretty picture, she expects and teaches her riders to be true sportsmen and to truly care for their horses. The lessons she taught me have been invaluable both in the saddle and in life, and have helped me to become the person that I am today. For that, I am truly grateful.”
Barb Connolly, Karlyn Connolly, Paige and Lori Ross. fun. She realizes this is a sport or hobby that is meant to be enjoyable. That is what I appreciate about her most—that she wants to win, but not at the cost of fun.” From meaningful memories at horse shows spent with Lori and her daughters to rewarding moments where something finally “clicks,” Karyln is thankful for Lori’s influence in her life. She shares, “I think Lori is one of the best equitation coaches out there, because she knows how hard to push while being realistic. She truly has high expectations for all her riders, but they are achievable. She never expects perfection right away and enjoys seeing growth.”
In third grade, while taking lessons with a YMCA riding program at Saqqara, Katie Hull’s journey with horses began. For Katie, what started as a simple after-school program, has turned into a life-long passion for Arabian horses. A journey facilitated by an instructor who Katie sees as kind, driven and truly humble. Lori sets a positive example for her students, and Katie feels lucky that she was able to look to Lori as a mentor. In this role, Katie enjoyed a great deal of success, growing up to become an accomplished horsewoman and lawyer. When Katie considers what horses have given her through the years, the memories and emotions that surface have less to do with ribbons and roses, and more to do with the time she spent practicing, connecting with her horses, and enjoying the welcoming environment that Lori fostered at Saqqara. At the base of all of it, Lori sparked an authentic fire in Katie that she has come to honor deeply. “My horses are my passion and offer a sense of tranquility that is a little hard to describe. Lori teaches her students from an early age to appreciate their horses and the hard work that goes into riding. She also makes sure that you appreciate everyone that helps you with pursuing your passion, especially your family and friends. I think this approach is why I and many of her riders have continued to pursue their passion for Arabian
The final perspectives in this tribute to a truly special horsewoman come from Lori’s daughters—Paige and Lindsey. These sisters grew up showing with their mom, traveling to every corner of the U.S., sharing unique experiences and spending a great deal of time together. As such, it’s no surprise that both Lindsey and Paige have many great memories with their mom on the road. Lindsey recalls moments ranging from listening to potential pattern music songs all the way to New Mexico, to winning two reserve national championships with her mom by her side. Lindsey remembers another, “One memory that sticks out to me is when I was jogging in the gate at Youth Nationals for my Western Horsemanship finals. All of a sudden, my outfit ripped completely down the middle of the back. Screaming and in full panic mode, my mom safety pinned my outfit together while I was still jogging in. Thankfully it held for the rail work and she further secured it on me to go back in for patterns.”
Leon Matthias, Kim Jurgena-Matthias, Lori, Karyn Nina Ung and Ashley Ackerson.
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In less tense times, Paige and Lindsey watched and experienced firsthand their mother’s love for helping her students reach their highest potential. With many small and monumental wins between both sisters, Lori was there with support, high expectations, and most of all, love. Paige shares, “I am so grateful to have had my mother as my instructor. Her guidance and support never fails me. She is such an integral part of my favorite memories and accomplishments as a horsewoman. I feel blessed beyond belief that my love for horses is shared across my entire family and that we get to share all of the great memories and moments together.” Collectively, Paige and Lindsey believe that their mom should find pride in an innumerable amount of places. In her, they see the woman who brought them into this world and the mom who has informed the young women they have become. Together, Paige and Lindsey share, “We think our mom should be proud of so many things. She has helped countless riders to national champion, reserve champion, and top ten wins. She has impacted so many young riders’ lives and helped them achieve their dreams. On top of being a wonderful instructor, she is also a very talented judge, and has judged U.S. Nationals a total of seven times. We are so proud of her many accomplishments.” n
Paige on Action Packed with mom Lori, sister Lindsey, and Lori's mom, Mary Ann, at Youth Nationals.
Top, l-r: Lori and Ashley Wendt at Youth Nationals in Oklahoma City; Youth Nationals; Christa Beeler, Lori and Kelly Marckres; National Show Horse Finals; Youth Nationals. Bottom, l-r: National Show Horse Finals; Lori with Chelsea Donovan, Jessica Walter Maldonado and Chris Estling at National Show Horse Finals.
Nymeyer’s at Tanglewood proud ly celebrates Lori Schroeder Ross and her accomplishments. Having been an avid and proficient horsewoman in her own right, she showered her talents on to her daughters and numerous students throughout the years, from beginners to National contenders. More than a decade ago, she started working for Nymeyer’s at Tanglewood, sharing her knowledge and know-how with our customers on everything from choosing a sadd le to choosing an outfit. Her inherent kindness and generosity are her strongest traits and those traits radiate in everything she does. Thank you, Lori, for being such an integral part of the Arabian horse world, as well as Nymeyer’s at Tanglewood. Ar abian Horse Times | 7 | Lori Ross 2017
Mom, We are so excited to recognize and celebrate your love and success with the Arabian horse. We would not be the riders or people we are today without you as our role model. We are so appreciative of all the love and support you have given us, in and out of the show ring. You helped us accomplish our dreams and make memories that will last a lifetime. You have made an impact on so many students’ lives, but especially ours. We love you, Mom! Paige & Lindsey
Lori, Over the years I’ve watched your patience, skill and talent nurture many riders and mounts, making dreams come true. Through all the good rides, great times and lessons learned, I value your honesty, compassion and friendship most of all. ~ Carla Schind ler
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Lori, We have been fortunate to live by, and learn from, one of the best equitation instructors in the country. You taught us valuable lessons both in and out of the ring during our youth careers, and laid the foundation for every blue ribbon since then. Your continued coaching, friendship, and support are greatly appreciated, and we look forward to making many more wonderful memories together. Love, the Walter, Douglass and Maldonado families
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Lori, Thank you for all that you have done for me and my family over the years. You are an exceptional instructor and friend. I feel truly honored to have been your student and I know that much of my success both inside the show ring and in life is the result of the lessons you taught me. I hope that you know how much you mean to all of your students and how much good you have done for them, their families and the Arabian breed over the years. Each time I ride, I think of you (and immediately put my heels down and sit a little straighter!). I hope to see you, Mary Ann, Paige and Lindsey soon, and I look forward to our next lesson! With gratitude, Katie Hull
“Thank you, Lori, for everything you have done throughout the years. You have helped shape me into the person I am today and I could not be more thankful. Your advice, kindness, and generosity has affected me in ways that changed me for the better. Thank you for helping make my dreams reality. We love you, Lori!” ~ Karly Thank you, Lori, for sharing your time, your expertise, your horses and your friendship. If we are fortunate, we meet people during our life, that we cannot imagine not having had the opportunity to know and learn from. You are that person. You have made our life better and we simply cannot thank you enough for that.” ~ Barb Connolly
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Lori, Thank you for everything you have done for us! You are responsible for Sarah getting her first National Championship and we will remember that moment forever! We have wonderful, fun memories of our time in Galveston, and the times y’all came to ride. We love you so much and hope you get well soon! With love, Cathie, Sarah and Mary Catherine Ellis Ellis Arabians
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“I discovered that the horse is life itself, a metaphor but also an example of life’s mystery and unpredictability, “
of life’s generosity and beauty, a worthy object of repeated and ever changing contemplation. ~ Jane Smiley
Lori, Your kindness, wisdom, and strength mirror the horse—it’s no wonder you have such a profound connection with them. It was an honor to have you share your incredible talents and love for the horse with our family. Thank you, Lori, for all the years of encouragement and compassion you have shown the Larson Family! With love, Kara, Terrie and Greg
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I have many memories of Lori as an equitation coach. She spent many summer days at our farm, giving us individual lessons and helping us be competitive in hunt and sadd le seat. Lori has always been an excellent coach with a real gift for fine tuning every gait required in an equitation class. ~ Katherine Kirby
There are so many things this wonderful coach has taught me, from acquiring the perfect seat, to teaching me what it takes to bring out the best in my horse. You have been, not only the most amazing coach, but also an inspiration for my future with the Arabian horse. Thank you, Lori, for everything you do. Looking forward to Youth Nationals 2017 with you! ~ Emmerson Burson Lori has been a friend and colleague for many years. She has an eye for detail and an ability to work with a variety of personalities—both horse and human—which has allowed her to be very successful in the equine industry. More important than show-ring success is the positive impact she has made on the people around her. We have watched Lori touch the lives of so many young people that are still in the ring today. We are proud to call her a friend. ~ Mike and Ann Miller
Lori, Although my time with you was short, I appreciate all the time and energy you put into me and my horses. I value the relationships I have built with you and your family, and am proud to have had a “Lori chapter” in my book, documenting my long road in this industry. Thank you for everything. ~ Lesley Blain
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I really appreciate Lori’s patience and willingness to help Sparky and I through the many challenges we have faced. Lori is always able to give me new tips and tricks to improve my performance in the show ring. ~ Ashley Hess Thank you for being part of my equitation success. ~ Thaddeus Knigge
Lori means a lot to me. She has been helping me since I was 6 years old to achieve my goals. She has been and continues to be, a big inspiration to not only me, but the whole Arabian horse community. I love her!!! ~ Mallory Arndt
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Lori, How you make others feel about themselves says a lot about a person. Thank you for always making me feel like a Champion! With love and gratitude, ~ Lauryn Riepma
Lori has played a huge part in me becoming the rider I am today and the wins I have achieved. She pushed me to work harder and be stronger, while always reminding me that she knew I could do it. Whether it was walking a circle around her as she fine-tuned parts of my equitation, or trotting without my stirrups until I couldn’t feel my legs anymore, I knew she believed in me and would stand beside me. I am thankful and feel so blessed that I was one of her students. She was there for my first regional win at age 7, till my final equitation ride at Youth Nationals in 2016. She is an amazing coach, and equally as amazing of a person. Thank you for always being there for me, Lori. Love you, Hayley Haertel
The inspiration that you give me and others has been invaluable. Thank you for helping me grow as a rider and getting me through some of the tough times I’ve had! ~Elizabeth Allard
A big reason why I am successful in my classes is because of you, Lori. You are always so positive and supportive to everyone. Thank you for everything! ~ Allison Brost
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I appreciate Lori’s help in and outside of the ring. Her smile and words of wisdom add so much fun to competing. Thank you for being you! ~ Sydney Schulz
Thank you for everything you have done for me. I always like to know you are on the rail to help me. I hope you get better as soon as possible. Love, Cassie Hartman
As a professional in the industry, Lori has been a great influence for me over the years, helping me be more positive and inspiring to all of my students. She has always been a very caring person and we have shared many National Champions together! I love you, Lori, Deb McGuire
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Thank you, Lori, for all of your guidance and encouragement over the years with Tina and Marco! You mean a lot to me. Simone Schneekloth
Lori has helped mold me into the rider I am today; whether in the show ring or practicing at home, she continually encourages me to become the best rider possible. I will forever be grateful for all that Lori has done for me and the Arabian horse world, both in and out of the ring. Much love & respect, Audrey Flakus
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Dear Lori, Words can’t even begin to describe all you have done for me. Not only did you teach me equitation, but also great life lessons! I will never forget all the early morning riding patterns before the UPHA and always looking for you to give me a last word of confidence before going into the ring. You are a strong and influential woman in our lives. You have always given us support and helped us grow as competitors and women. Thank you for all you do and represent! Much love, Alex Ryan
Thank you so much, Lori, for all your hard work. You have always been so encouraging and patient. I will never forget the excitement when you coached and headed for me at Youth in the UPHA and we won it together. BEST DAY EVER!!!! ~ Alexa Gilbert
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Lori, Thank you for your tireless patience, your partnership and your camaraderie. My first memory of you was seeing you go National Champion in Sadd le Seat Equitation all those years ago. We have been through so much since then. From competing against one another in Nebraska, to having you to our farm annually for lessons, it has been a pleasure to be alongside you for so long. I am blessed to call you my friend. - Diane
Lori, we have always appreciated your perspective from center ring, talking to you about great horses and your coaching. Thank you for all you’ve done!!! - Michelle and Mia
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