Team #672 Joan Edwards and Peaches

Team #672: Joan Edwards and Peaches
From: Frankfort, Illinois
Ages: 80 & 20
Combined Age: 100
Test: Training Level Test 2
Date: July 23, 2023

I have been fascinated by horses for as long as I can remember. Growing up in Chicago, my experience with them was limited to pony rides at Lincoln Park Zoo. After college, I became a mom and a juvenile court probation officer. Horses were still not a part of my life until a part-time job as a recreation worker in a children’s home gave me the opportunity to trail ride. It was great until a bad fall.

When I recovered, I decided it was time to take riding lessons. I had wonderful teachers and many equine adventures. I was inspired to become a riding instructor myself. It has been a rewarding career for over thirty years. 

Peaches came into my life shortly after the loss of my first horse, Major. She was trained as a reining horse. She was beautiful, but she was lame. She suffered from navicular even though she was only six years old. 

We started the journey to soundness, and I was fortunate to have talented and dedicated farriers and veterinarians. She has been fine for years and transitioned seamlessly from reining to dressage. 

During our fourteen years together, Peaches has helped me through some difficult times. I hope we have many more years to come. 

Thanks to The Dressage Foundation for this wonderful opportunity. Peaches seemed to enjoy our special day!