Ryan Wood and Galway Blazer. Photo by Leslie Wylie.
Could there be a new “Woodsy” in town? Ryan Wood, a 15-year-old from Mobile, Ala., just wrapped up a super weekend here at the Nutrena USEA American Eventing Championships. She and her horse Galway Blazer laid down a double-clear show jumping trip to secure third place in the competitive Jr. Beginner Novice division, finishing on a score of 33.0.
With the pressure on and this being her biggest competition yet, Ryan was as composed as any rider I’ve seen here this weekend. She sat up patiently down every line, counting her steps, and could have won an equitation class out there while she was at it.
Ryan Wood and Galway Blazer. Photo by Leslie Wylie.
Ryan Wood and Galway Blazer. Photo by Leslie Wylie.
But while she may have had ice in her veins during her round, as soon as they crossed the finish it was all smiles and a big pat for her partner. From start to finish, this was a fun pair to watch and we look forward to keeping an eye on Ryan’s eventing career as it progresses!
Ryan Wood and Galway Blazer. Photo by Leslie Wylie.
There is, of course, another Ryan Wood floating around out there in the event world, who is older, (arguably) wiser, and has a few more jumps under his belt.
Ryan Wood and Fernhill Classic at Bromont 2014. Photo by Leslie Wylie.
I asked 4* Ryan Wood if he had any words of wisdom for Jr. Beginner Novice Ryan Wood. The prompt: “If you could go back in time and give yourself some teenage eventing (or life) advice, what would it be?”
Here is what he had to say:
Here’s some life advice for you, 4* Ryan Wood: Watch your back! Ryan may be new to the sport now, but give her a few years and she may be giving you a run for your money!
Go Eventing.
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