In the latest episode of "The Horse Business," hosted by Marie Marks, we had the pleasure of diving deep into the journey of Rileigh Tibbott, a young but seasoned entrepreneur in the equestrian world. Rileigh’s story is one of grit, resilience, and an unyielding passion for horses. From her humble beginnings in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to establishing her own business in Wellington, Florida, Rileigh's path has been anything but straightforward.
From Pittsburgh to Wellington: A Journey Fueled by Passion
Rileigh's introduction to the equestrian world was unique. Unlike many who had the financial backing to pursue riding from a young age, Rileigh had to carve out her path. Her parents encouraged her to find her way, leading her to break racehorses as a two-year-old in exchange for boarding fees. This early experience instilled in her a strong work ethic and a deep understanding of the value of hard work, qualities that would later become the foundation of her business.
What was supposed to be a brief stay in Wellington turned into a permanent move, as Rileigh quickly realized that this was where she wanted to build her career. “I was supposed to be here for a month, and I never left,” she shared, highlighting the allure of Wellington, often considered the capital of show jumping.
The Challenges of Running a Business in Wellington
Establishing a business in Wellington, where the competition is fierce and the stakes are high, is no small feat. Rileigh candidly discussed the challenges she faced, especially as a young woman in a male-dominated industry. Early in her career, she was met with scepticism and even condescension from more established trainers. “Good luck, you’re gonna need it,” was the advice from a well-known trainer, which initially offended Rileigh but later proved to be a realistic warning about the difficulties ahead.
Navigating the complexities of the horse business, particularly in sales, Rileigh encountered the darker sides of the industry, where transparency is often lacking, and the lines between professional and personal boundaries can blur uncomfortably. Despite these challenges, Rileigh remained committed to her vision of doing business with integrity and building a reputation based on trust.
The Importance of Transparency in the Horse Business
One of the recurring themes in Rileigh's conversation was the importance of transparency in the equestrian industry. The lack of straightforward business practices, especially in horse sales, is something Rileigh has worked hard to counter. She emphasized the need for clear contracts and honest dealings, comparing it to buying a car or a house—investments that require protection and due diligence. Rileigh’s approach is about ensuring that both buyers and sellers are treated fairly and that the integrity of the transaction is maintained.
The Special Bond with Charlie
Rileigh also shared the story of her special horse, Charlie, a once-in-a-lifetime partner who has played a significant role in her career. Charlie’s journey was not without challenges—he came to Rileigh as a difficult horse, one that other riders had struggled with. However, through patience, retraining, and a deep bond, Charlie went from being a horse with a little promise to one that gave Rileigh her name in the Wellington show jumping scene. Despite setbacks, including a severe injury, Rileigh’s dedication to Charlie never wavered, and he remains a cornerstone of her equestrian life.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Rileigh Tibbott in Equestrian Sports
As Rileigh looks to the future, her focus remains on growing her business with integrity and passion. She’s determined to continue building relationships based on trust and to contribute positively to the industry she loves. While competitive goals remain important, Rileigh is equally dedicated to the development of her clients and their horses, ensuring that every transaction is a step toward a more transparent and fair equestrian market.
The challenges Rileigh has faced have only strengthened her resolve. She’s committed to making a difference, not just for herself but for the broader equestrian community. Her journey serves as an inspiration, showing that with determination, a clear vision, and a strong ethical foundation, success in the horse world is not only possible but sustainable.