Wilmington Standlee Sunday Spotlight: Lyndi Matthews

Wilmington, Ohio – This week’s Wilmington Standlee Sunday Spotlight shines on Lyndi Matthews. Since beginning her riding journey in 2016, Matthews has climbed the ranks from the 2’6” at WEC – Wilmington to the equitation and jumper rings with the support of her barn family at Sugar Run Farm. We caught up with Matthews to learn more about her journey in the sport, her two mounts, and her goals.

WEC: How did you get started in the sport?
I started riding in 2016. My very first time on a horse was actually during a vacation in Arizona. It was a three-hour trail ride, and I completely fell in love. After that, I began taking lessons and competed in IEA for about two years. When I was ready to take the next step, I started training with Holly Helbig, and she found me my horse, Oliver. He took me all the way from cross-rails up through the 3’3” Equitation Finals. He’s just amazing.

Now I train with Jen [Nadalin] and Chris [Eadline]. We eventually decided it was time for Oliver to teach his next rider, so when I was ready to move up, we started thinking about my next horse. Literally two days later, Jen and Chris were heading to Kentucky and invited me to come try horses. I went, tried Floyd, and immediately knew he was the one. It all happened so quickly, but it really felt meant to be!

WEC: How do you balance school and riding?
I’ve been in traditional in-person school most of my life, but this year, as a junior, I switched to a hybrid schedule. I attend my main high school from 8–10am for math and science. Then I go to a branch campus where I take a business class from 10am to noon, and I also have a few online classes. I’m finished with school by noon each day, which gives me the afternoon to head to the barn and ride!

WEC: Tell us about your horses, Floyd 91 and El Classico.
Floyd [Floyd 91] was imported by Ashland Farms in late spring. The first time I saw him in the ring, I knew he was the one. He had been a jumper in Europe, but he’s adapted to the equitation so quickly. We competed at indoors this fall and finished in the top 20 at his first one.

He’s incredibly brave and such a confidence booster. If you’re ever unsure, he’s the type that says, “I’ve got you.” On the ground, he’s a total puppy dog. He just wants to cuddle and will rest his head on your shoulder. He’s the sweetest.

Leo [El Classico] is amazing. He’s very experienced and was previously my trainer’s daughter Caroline’s horse, competing in the High Junior Jumpers and Grands Prix. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to ride him and that Jen, Chris and Caroline have shared him with me. He knows what you’re thinking before you even ask. He’s truly a seasoned professional and an incredible partner.

WEC: How has WEC – Wilmington played a role in your development as a rider?
WEC has really been our home show. I actually started here in the 2’6”, and it’s given me so many opportunities to grow. Competing in the Sanctuary, especially for USHJA 3’3” Jumping Seat Medal, has been great practice for finals. The courses are always excellent, the jumps and atmosphere are amazing, and the environment really helps you prepare for bigger stages. The people here are wonderful, and it’s incredible that the Roberts family has created such a beautiful facility so close to home. I also love getting to show outside in the summer!

WEC: What are your riding goals?
Long-term, I would love to ride for an NCAA program. That’s something I’ve started exploring. In the short term, my biggest goal is consistency. I want to become more confident and more consistent in the ring. I’d love to jump my first USET class this year and move up to my first 1.20m track. I’m really focused on perfecting my track, maintaining a good rhythm, and becoming more confident in my riding overall.

WEC: What’s your favorite part of the sport?
Definitely the progress. It’s so rewarding to build a partnership with the horses and see yourself improve step by step. Watching that development over time is really special.

And of course, the people. My barn family is amazing. They’re so supportive, and my trainers are incredible. I am so thankful for my barn team, Jen, Chris, Courtney Newby, Sarah Guidice and family for everything they do to support me. They always go the extra mile for me and the horses and I am so thankful!

Thank you, Lyndi, for taking the time to speak with us! We wish you continued success in and out of the show ring!