Roben Oaktrey

Hailey Roben Oaktrey

Hailey was nervous and excited when entering the show ring for the first time at Wolf Creek Arena. She trained with Buddy for 1 1/2 years to prepare for this moment. Buddy's ears were perked straight up, showing he was focusing on the commands coming from his rider. A gentle squeeze from Hailey's thighs implemented the correct amount of pressure on Buddy's ribs, which sent him into a trot. Buddy was trying his best for Hailey. Everyone realized, including the judges, that Hailey and Buddy worked well together. Buddy tried to turn and proceed through an opening, allowing him to exit from the ring during the show. The families from Long Run Stables stood shoulder to shoulder in the opening to prevent Buddy from reacting. Hailey tugged on the inside rein, signaling Buddy that he could not misbehave. Bethany and Karen, friends of Hailey, also had their own issues to consider. If they did not master these, they would not win a ribbon. When Hailey, 12 years old and 55 pounds, started lessons at Long Run Stables, the size and strength of the horses intimidated her. Hailey did not know they would require her to groom and tack these large animals. Thanks to the excellent training of Miss Sara, Hailey overcame this fear of becoming a first-class rider.