Wilmington, Ohio – This week’s Wilmington Sunday Spotlight shines on Jordan Renzi of Columbus, Ohio. The University of Toledo student has been a frequent rider and groom at World Equestrian Center – Wilmington alongside the team at Kendalwood Farm. Jordan can be found back in the barn with her favorite horse, Kinsella, or in the Standlee Sanctuary aboard one of the many jumper mounts at the barn. Winter Classic 4 was a special week for Jordan, as she spent her 21st birthday ringside! We caught up with Jordan to learn more about her riding journey and her goals for 2024.
WEC: How did you get started riding?
My mom actually grew up riding. I started riding when I was four. She did eventing and she always took me to the barn with her. I remember watching her ride around the farm and knowing from such a young age that I wanted to do it too. So, I started riding with the trainer that she used to ride with. I have loved it ever since. It’s always been a passion of mine.
I ride and groom at Kendalwood Farm and I have been there from the beginning. I grew up riding with Charlotte [Clark]. I think she’s known me since I was six years old. We both moved to Kendalwood at the same time! I was her first client and I have been there ever since.
WEC: Tell us about a day in your life at the farm.
I would say probably ride more when I am home from school. I usually groom every single show. And when I’m at home, I’m usually ride horses for her. She’s very busy teaching.
WEC: How do you juggle school and riding?
I go to the University of Toledo and I am in nursing school right now. I ride at the Howard’s farm while I’m at school. I try to do a lesson once a week or every two weeks. It can be very busy sometimes but I have more time this semester, so I am able to do a little more. It’s not too hard for me to balance anymore. I have been doing it for a while now, so I am used to it!
WEC: Who is your favorite horse to take care of at Kendalwood and why?
Definitely Kinsey [Kinsella]! Since I have grown up with Charlotte I have known her since she was a baby. I have watched her grow and become who she is and not knowing what she was going to do, and now she is the star! She is the queen of the barn. I think she’s my top favorite and she knows it. The one horse I got to ride, Envol, is also a favorite of mine. He was a sale horse that I got to show and he was amazing.
WEC: What is your favorite part about grooming and riding?
The constant interaction with the horses. I love the sport and I love supporting everyone at the ring. I don’t mind waking up early and having long days. Especially when I’m showing, yes, it’s busy but I love busy! I love helping set up and doing jumps or coming in the mornings to see the horses. Every part about it is my favorite.
WEC: What are your goals for 2024?
My hope is that we’ll do our first import and start a business of my own and have a name for it. I’ve always wanted that as a side project. I plan to be a CRNA and I just want to do the horses as a side. So, my goal is to be to get my first import and maybe go to France with Charlotte!
I want to continue moving up, I’ve done quite a few 1.20ms with different horses and I’ve gotten to jump a lot of different horses. I have had a lot of opportunities. So, I feel like recently, since I’ve been in college, my confidence and growth as a rider has really increased a lot. I just feel like I can go in the ring right away on someone. I would love to get back to the 1.20m pretty quickly, and definitely will be looking forward to a Futures Prix in the next year.
Thank you, Jordan, for taking the time to speak with us! We wish you the happiest of birthday’s and continued success in 2024!