Kathleen Claybrook and Houston (AL)
Team #926: Kathleen Claybrook and Houston
From: Pelham, Alabama
Ages: 68 & 32
Combined Ages: 100
Test: Training Level Test 1
For as long as I can remember, horses have been a part of my life. I received my first riding lesson as a gift for my 7th birthday, and that is all it took. Whether I was riding, competing, volunteering, or simply soaking up barn time, horses were always at the heart of it all. My favorite memory was serving as the mascot for the University of Central Florida Knights during their inaugural football season.
Now, at 68, I’m proud to serve as the Executive Director of Special Equestrians, a therapeutic riding program that brings the joy and healing power of horses to individuals with special needs. I began with the program in 1987 as a volunteer, eventually becoming a certified instructor, and stepping into the role of director in 1993. More than three decades later, I still love getting into the ring and sharing my passion with our participants.
Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to own some incredible horses, competing in hunt seat, eventing, Western, and dressage. These days, dressage has become a perfect way to stay active while keeping my horse, Houston, in top shape.
Houston came to me in 2016, a gift from a dear friend after I lost my beloved Thoroughbred. He’s handsome, and has a calm, gentle spirit that makes him both a wonderful riding partner and an ideal therapeutic mount. At our barn, he’s the tallest horse — and I may be the shortest adult — which makes us quite the pair!
My Century Club ride was a true highlight of my equestrian life, happening this year during Special Equestrians’ 40th Anniversary Open House. It was an honor to ride in this milestone event with Pam Ibrahim, Special Equestrians’ very first instructor, serving as my judge.
