Thoroughbred Incentive Program September Youth Ambassador

Meet Julia House!

Photo courtesy of Julia House

T.I.P. presents the September featured Youth Ambassador: Julia House. Julia, 17, is from Maine. Julia and her Thoroughbred, Appealing Promise (Bella), participate in Hunters, Jumpers, Eventing, and Dressage.

Julia House (17, ME)

Horse

• Registered Jockey Club Name: Appealing Promise
• Show Name: Appealing Promise (Bella)
• Barn Name:

How did you start riding?
When I was nine years old, I went to a riding summer camp. I loved being around the horses and riding so much that I started taking lessons. Now I volunteer helping other kids at that same summer camp!

What is your favorite thing about riding/or your horse?
My favorite thing about my horse is that she is so patient and willing to give it her all. She is always willing to put in her best effort whether we are just going for a trail ride or in an important competition. Our partnership has come a long way and continues to grow.

What would you like to do when you are older?
When I am older I would love to have my own barn or be a trainer. I love the idea of getting more people involved with the sport and helping them to progress just like I have.

Tell us your favorite quote and why:
One of my favorite quotes is “Don’t look back — you’re not going that way” by Mary Engelbreit. This quote especially pertains to me because if I ever tapped a rail at  a show, I always used to look back to see if it fell down. I’ve learned throughout my years of riding and showing that you should never look back, whether physically or psychologically. As an equestrian and an athlete, I need to focus on improving my riding. Although the mistakes and failures in the past are the things that I have learned the most from, that doesn’t mean I should focus on my flaws. Instead, I have learned to push myself to continuously improve and learned to never look back.

Photo courtesy of Julia House

What do you think the most important aspects of horsemanship are?
I think one of the most important aspects of horsemanship to remember is that it is never the horse’s fault. My trainer instilled this idea in me from the start, and it has stuck with me. Whenever you have a bad ride or a bad day, you should always pick yourself up and think about what you could have done differently. Your body is what you use to communicate with your horse, so it ultimately comes down to what you can improve about your riding. Whether you place first or dead last, your horse comes first and you should never blame mistakes on them. Another important aspect of horsemanship is the care and keeping of the horse. I believe that you are the caretaker first and a rider second; you should always have your horse’s best interest in mind. This is one of the reasons why I joined Pony Club, because it is not just about how good of a rider you are, it is about the knowledge of the horse and their care.

More Fun Facts

• How many pets do you have (and what kind)?
  I have one pet cat, he is a Seal Point Himalayan named Mookie!
• What is your favorite animal (apart from a horse)?
  My favorite animal besides a horse is a cat.
• What is your favorite color?
  My favorite color is pink.
• What is your favorite food?
  My favorite food is pancakes.
• What is something unique about you?
  I play the piano and the ukulele.
• What is one word that your friends would describe you as?
  Kind
• Other Activities or hobbies:
  Skiing, snowboarding, piano, USPC C-1

What is one thing you would like to tell people about Thoroughbreds or the Thoroughbred Incentive Program?
Thoroughbreds are very talented horses and they are extremely versatile. They are able to succeed in almost any discipline. They also have a lot of heart, and will try their best for you no matter what.

What are your goals for your horse in 2020?
In 2020 I hope to progress with my horse even more in the Hunter Jumper ring and also take her in more three phase events. I am also hoping to participate in the New England Hunter Trials with her again because it was a great opportunity this past show season!

Anything else you would like to share?
I cannot wait to represent T.I.P. as a Youth Ambassador, and I hope to have the chance to spread awareness about the Thoroughbred breed and influence people to consider owning a Thoroughbred.