There are certain moments in life that stay with you forever, and this past weekend gave me one of those moments.
At Sunshine Meadows Equestrian Village in Delray Beach, I had the opportunity to drive Prairie Puma in the Sunshine Stakes for 3-year-old pacing fillies. In my very first drive for purse money, we crossed the wire first and earned my first career win.
It still does not feel completely real.
When people see the headline, they see a win. For me, this moment represents years of hard work, setbacks, growth, and learning, not just in racing, but in life itself.
Harness racing has been part of my story for a long time. I took my trainer’s exam back in 2018 and spent years studying the sport, learning from experienced horsemen, working around the barn, qualifying horses, and trying to absorb every lesson I could.
There were moments when the dream felt far away, especially during the pandemic when so much in the industry slowed down. But no matter what happened, the horses always kept me going.
They teach patience.
They teach humility.
They teach you how to keep showing up, even when progress feels slow.
Recovery has also been a major part of my life and personal journey. Recovery gave me a second chance, and horses helped give me purpose during that process. Somewhere along the way, those two worlds became deeply connected for me.
That connection is a big reason River Run Racehorse Retirement exists today.
Long before River Run officially became a nonprofit, I knew I wanted to create something meaningful for retired racehorses. These horses give everything they have for us during their racing careers, and they deserve safety, dignity, and compassionate care long after the spotlight fades.
Standing in the winner’s circle this weekend, I was not just thinking about the race itself. I was thinking about every person, every horse, and every experience that helped shape this journey.
I thought about the mentors who believed in me.
I thought about the horses who taught me patience.
I thought about the struggles that shaped me into who I am today.
And honestly, I thought about River Run.
In many ways, this victory represents exactly what River Run stands for.
Second chances.
Healing.
Perseverance.
New beginnings.
Prairie Puma gave me an opportunity I will never forget, and I am incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make that moment possible.
This was not just a personal milestone. It was a reminder that growth is possible when people and horses are given compassion, patience, and a chance to move forward.
The journey is still just beginning, and I am excited for what comes next, both on and off the track.