Wilmington, Ohio – This week’s Wilmington Sunday Spotlight shines on 10-year-old rider, Sylvia Martin. The young rider of Mattawan, Michigan, fulfilled her dream of showing at World Equestrian Center – Wilmington with her seven-year-old Quarter Horse mare, Blueberry Muffin, in the Crossrail division at Winter Classic 1. Sylvia started selling homemade crafts, cookies, artwork, and beanie babies over the summer to save money for her trip to Ohio. Ultimately, a Christmas present and a successful first outing for Blueberry and Sylvia made the young rider’s dreams come true!
WEC: Tell us about yourself.
I am 10 years old, and I am in 5th grade. I have twin sisters that are one and half years old. I have been riding horses since I was five. My favorite thing to do is go to the barn and I own a pony named Blueberry.
WEC: Tell us about your pony, Blueberry Muffin.
My pony Blueberry is seven years old, and I got her at the end of October. Before we bought her, she was used for Polo! She had never shown before we got her, and this was her first time off the grounds. It was her second time ever showing with me. We did one home show.
She really loves to eat and loves any attention. My favorite quality about her is that she is super nice and friendly to everyone!
WEC: How was your first experience at WEC – Wilmington?
My first experience at WEC was amazing! I had a lot of fun. My favorite part was being able to do the crossrails on my pony. I was very proud of her because she was really nervous at first but did really good!
WEC: What was your favorite candy at The Sugar Shack?
My favorite candy at The Sugar Shack was the jellybeans.
WEC: Why was it your dream to show at WEC?
It was my dream to show at WEC because of how big it is, how amazing it looks and all the people to watch. I also really wanted to go through the ride-thru at Starbucks.
WEC: What is your favorite memory from showing at WEC?
I have two best memories. The first is when I got to finally canter crossrails with Blueberry. The second was doing the horseless horse show with my teammates and I got to watch my dad do it too!
WEC: What is your favorite part about riding?
My favorite part about riding at my barn Cedar Lodge is seeing and riding all of the horses, hanging out with my friends, and taking lessons with the best coach in the world, Miss Ashley.
Congratulations on your successful trip to World Equestrian Center, Syliva! We wish you and Blueberry the best of luck and look forward to seeing you again!
Make sure to visit the WEC Blog and follow us on social media @worldequestriancenter for full coverage on all feature classes!
Results can be found at wec.net.
All horse show images are provided by Winslow Photography and can be purchased onsite at WEC – Wilmington or online through their website.