Member Spotlight: A Young Rider with Big Dreams

Meet Olivia Moore — a local high schooler whose passion for horses and drive to grow are already making an impression in the dressage community.

Growing up in Santa Barbara, this young rider has explored nearly every corner of the equestrian world — western, polo, jumping — before finding her true home in dressage. And what a home it's been. In 2025, she had the privilege of riding and showing Maureen Barnett's Oldenburg, Bleu, gaining invaluable show experience that she describes as both challenging and deeply rewarding.

"2025 was filled with lots of ups and downs," she reflects, "but I'm so grateful for all the opportunities I got to have."

One of her proudest accomplishments this past year was passing her Pony Club C2 certification in both horse management and riding — no small feat. She credits the support of the Santa Barbara Polo Pony Club's DC and trainer Michelle Freels for helping her get there through dedicated studying and preparation. Now she has her sights set even higher, working toward her C3 certification and HB horse management.

Beyond the arena, she has her eye on a future in veterinary medicine, with a dream of becoming a large animal vet — a goal that feels perfectly in step with her deep love and care for horses.

What she appreciates most about the Santa Barbara dressage community? The shows right in her backyard, and the incredibly kind people who work tirelessly to make them happen. It's that spirit of generosity and local connection that keeps her inspired.

As for 2026, she's buzzing with excitement about competing at SBC-CDS shows and embracing whatever new opportunities come her way. She just recently found a new riding partner at Bella Cavalia in Buellton and we can't wait to cheer them on this season.

We're thrilled to have her as part of our chapter. Welcome to the spotlight!