Anna Marek

If Anna Marek is any indication, the next generation of U.S. dressage talent looks especially bright. At age 21, Anna has already established a pattern of achievement, where owners entrust her with young or difficult mounts and she patiently rehabs them into show ring readiness. Talent alone only carries you so far in the horse industry. However, Anna’s tremendous work ethic, evident early on, and honed as a working student for two-time Olympian Belinda Nairn gives her a solid base of training and horsemanship to draw on. These are also the traits which attracted sponsor Rene Isler whose work through the Dressage Foundation provides support for promising young talent.

Anna’s short-term goal is to compete in the Brentina Cup with long-term plans of making the team. In addition, she wants to continue to develop young horses and participate in the young horse programs the USDF and USEF offer.

Marek has proven to be a quick study, with the crucial capacity to absorb and grow as a competitor and in dealing with professional demands. She speaks with a mature clarity to her voice and thoughts. She’s already sold three horses herself and understands the importance of the economic side as well. To that end, Marek is finishing her business degree through Michigan State University.

After, competing in the midwest with success and stints showing in Florida during the past two winters, Anna’s relocation to FL marks a turning point. Making the move away from family in Michigan to ride full-time allows her myriad opportunities. “The training and quality of horses at this point has never been better for me. It might sound cheesy but feel like I’m learning everyday.” After riding on her own long periods, Marek is grateful for the chance to learn from and observe the best, which includes lesson with Anne Gribbons.

When it came time to consider her future Anna couldn't imagine anything that would be half as important as the horses. “Once I made the decision to make this my life I decided to go for it full force. Still, nothing makes me happier than a day of horses.”