Wilmington, Ohio – This week’s Sunday Spotlight shines on a longtime exhibitor at WEC – Wilmington, Morgan Clarke. Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, Clarke has moved all the way up the ranks at WEC, from her junior years to her professional career. Since graduating from The Ohio State University, Clarke has continued her lifelong passion for horses, honing her skills and managing the program at Wind Crest Farm. We caught up with the hardworking young professional to learn more about her dedicated riding journey and the community at WEC – Wilmington.
WEC: How did you get started riding?
I always loved horses when I was younger and no one in my family rode. I just remember seeing a horse and instantly being obsessed when I was little. Once I turned six, I started taking one lesson every two weeks. My parents definitely thought it was just a phase and I just kept on doing it. I am from Cincinnati originally, so I started riding Quarter Horses at a local barn. When I was 14, I changed to the hunter/jumper scenes. I rode with Amy Rosell, who I absolutely love and adore. Then, I went to Ohio State for college and rode on the team there. I started riding with Charlotte Clark at Kendalwood Farm when I was in school. I am a professional now and I ride for Teri Knowlton at Wind Crest Farm!
WEC: Tell us about your position at Wind Crest Farm.
I was a freelance groom for a long time after college. I met Teri Knowlton while doing that and I have always had so much respect for her as a trainer. I am riding for her now, and it is the best education that I could possibly ask for. She has so much knowledge. I really enjoy our program. I think we do a great job tailoring our program to what each horse needs. We get a lot of different types and we have had a lot of success with sales, leases and in the show ring. It is really excited to see the progress over the last year for sure.
WEC: Tell us about your experience Ohio State.
I went to OSU to study Bioengineering. I definitely had a heavy curriculum but I knew I wanted to ride on the team. Right away, I found so many great friends and people. Our trainer was amazing. I really got some great knowledge and education outside of the hunter/jumper scene as well. I started as an officer on the team because I knew I wanted to more involved. By my senior year, I was president of the team.
It was a great way to have responsibilities with the team and also get more leadership experience. I loved it. I have some of my best friends that I am still close with today from that experience! It was hard to balance but it also really contributed to time management.
WEC: How has WEC – Wilmington been influential for your career?
I just absolutely love it here at WEC. I always look forward to coming here and it is so centrally located. I have been riding here since it was Robert’s Arena, so it has been awesome to see how the facility has absolutely exploded in growth and progress. I am really glad to be a part of that.
When I first started riding here, it was an opportunity to show as some A and AA shows that I maybe wouldn’t have had otherwise because it is so close and there are such good opportunities for junior riders. Now it provides such a consistent experience for the horses. We stay here for weeks on end. The courses are always appropriately challenging without being overwhelming. Horses really thrive in the any ring at this facility.
The community factor is also the number one reason I love coming here. I have really found a family at WEC; people that I would have never known otherwise. It is great when people I know come and go at the show and the staff is always helpful, friendly and willing to help out with whatever you need. It is really a great horse show community where everyone truly wants each other to succeed. We all help each other in the schooling ring and lend a hand when it is needed. Everyone is so kind and welcoming.
WEC: What are some of your major riding goals as you grow in your professional career?
I definitely want to get into the bigger jumper ring. My short-term goal is to get into some of the Futures Prix’s. I just started leasing a mare and I am really excited about the future with her as well as some of the sale and client horses. Long term, I would love to jump the Grand Prix and be comfortable at that level.
Thank you, Morgan, for taking the time to speak with us! We wish you continued success throughout your career and are grateful to have you as a part of the WEC family!