Mary Jo Skinner and FHF Cruisewood (IN)
Team #973: Mary Jo Skinner and FHF Cruisewood
From: Noblesville, Indiana
Ages: 74 & 28
Combined Age: 102
Test: Second Level Test 1
I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t fascinated by horses, but there was never an opportunity for me to be around them. Instead, I satisfied my curiosity by reading books and watching TV shows about horses. I finally took some lessons in my last semester of college. What fun!
My career as a Registered Nurse, housewife, and mother did not afford me the time to continue riding. Tragedy struck our family when my husband died of cancer at age 37. I was left to raise five-year-old twins and a three-year-old. We were heartbroken, and I was so depressed. I remembered how much I had loved riding and how exhilarating it was, so I began lessons on a difficult Quarter Horse, “Still Steppin.” She saved my life! When I rode her, I had no worries. When she was being sold, I jumped at the chance to buy her. We were partners for 26 years. I still miss her. Riding became a family affair. Our herd grew as the kids started 4-H and showing. Our barn friends became our second family.
In 2023, my trainer put me in touch with Forrest Hill Farms. There I started lessons with Grace McCall on FHF Cruisewood, thanks to his generous owner, Dixie Pederson. Cruisewood is a legend. He has allowed numerous riders to get their medals. He gave me the opportunity to ride him in a Century Club ride. Many thanks, Forrest Hill Farms, Grace, Dixie, and Cruisewood!
