Thursday, September 14, 2006

Amanda Bailey and Faulkner Impress a Tough Judges' Panel at the USEF/Markel Young Horse Championships

It's a Family Affair

But behind every great horse rider combination is a team of dedicated support group. Bailey is from a state, Arkansas which is known more for Division I football than FEI dressage. In the Bailey camp it’s a family affair. The pillars of the team, her high school sweet heart and husband of ten years, (who gave the horse his moniker), her Mom, and coach and fellow mother of two, Tami Crawford. "Having a child changes everything, and competing at this level, you need a strong support from everyone, and I got that from my husband and Tami."

Growing up as a typical horse crazy kid, Bailey came to dressage late in her life while in college. Bailey originally had met Crawford after one of her yearly sojourns to Dressage at Devon, as a spectator. She saw Crawford ride and discovered that she was from Tennessee. "After I learned that she was nearby, I had to meet her, and so after Devon, I called and got to meet her." Crawford, who is located five hours from her Arkansas home, has been "simply inspirational" says Bailey, " She is the most positive happy, genuine person, sincerely cares about her students and has taught me that you can have a family and be successful as a dressage rider and competitor."