In the latest episode of "The Horse Business," hosted by BRIDL’s CEO, Marie Marks, listeners were introduced to Adam Rittenberg, an accomplished entrepreneur and passionate show jumper. Recorded in the vibrant city of Barcelona, this episode took a deep dive into Adam's journey from his roots in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to becoming a significant figure in the equestrian world across Europe. Adam’s story is not just about horses; it’s a testament to the power of entrepreneurship, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence in a highly competitive field.
From Family Roots to Global Ventures
Adam Rittenberg’s journey with horses began at a very young age. Growing up in Fort Lauderdale, he was surrounded by horses, thanks to his grandmother's stable. His childhood, spent living above the stable, laid the foundation for his lifelong passion for equestrian sports. “Horses were always going to be a part of my life,” Adam shared, reflecting on those formative years that ignited his love for the sport.
This passion carried him across the globe, from Canada to Europe, where he honed his skills and knowledge under the mentorship of some of the industry’s most respected figures. Working with renowned stables like those of Ian Millar and Paul Schockemöhle, Adam gained invaluable insights into not only riding but also the intricacies of managing a successful equestrian business. “Ian Millar was like a father figure to me, teaching me the ropes of business,” Adam recalled, emphasizing the importance of strong mentorship in his career development.
Building AJR Sport: An Entrepreneurial Endeavor
Beyond his achievements in the ring, Adam is also the founder of AJR Sport, a company specializing in custom equestrian products, particularly bits. His entrepreneurial journey began out of necessity and a desire to create something that would make a tangible difference in the equestrian world. “I knew that to sustain my passion for horses, I needed to do something more,” Adam explained. This realization led him to combine his love for horses with his business acumen, resulting in the creation of a successful product line that caters to the specific needs of riders.
Adam’s approach to entrepreneurship is deeply rooted in his commitment to quality and innovation. The challenge of designing and producing high-quality bits that are both functional and safe for horses is one he takes seriously. “Not harm is the number one rule,” Adam stated, underlining the importance of creating products that enhance the riding experience without compromising the well-being of the horse.
Lessons in Business and Life
Throughout the episode, Adam shared valuable lessons he has learned from his journey as both a rider and an entrepreneur. One of the key takeaways is the importance of persistence and dedication. “Being an entrepreneur is about being persistent and very adamant about your end target,” he noted. Adam’s path has not been without challenges, but his unwavering focus on his goals has allowed him to overcome obstacles and build a thriving business.
Another critical aspect of Adam’s success is his emphasis on the importance of listening and learning. In both business and riding, he believes that being a good listener is essential for growth. “If you’re not listening, you’re not learning,” Adam said, highlighting the value of continuous education and self-improvement.
Looking Ahead: The Future of AJR Sport and Beyond
As Adam looks to the future, he has ambitious plans for AJR Sport. He envisions expanding the company’s offerings beyond bits to include a full line of tack and other equestrian products. “I’d love to see AJR Sport grow into more than just a bit company,” he shared, revealing his goal to continue innovating and providing riders with the tools they need to succeed.
In addition to his business aspirations, Adam is also focused on his personal growth as a rider. His dream is to continue progressing through the levels of show jumping, with the ultimate goal of competing in five-star Grand Prix events. “Everyone’s dream is to continue to progress through the levels and arrive at the top of the sport,” Adam said, expressing his commitment to reaching new heights in his riding career.
Final Thoughts: A Shared Vision for the Equestrian World
The conversation between Adam and Marie Marks also touched on the potential for future collaborations, including the idea of creating a hybrid business model that combines online platforms with in-person experiences. This innovative approach could bridge the gap between the European and American equestrian markets, offering clients a unique and comprehensive service.
Adam’s journey is a powerful reminder that success in the equestrian world, as in any other field, requires a blend of passion, persistence, and innovation. Whether through his entrepreneurial ventures or his achievements in the ring, Adam Rittenberg continues to push the boundaries of what is possible, inspiring others to do the same.