Co-Editor and Equestrian, Olivia Woodson

Pixel Journal: Tell us a bit about yourself. 

Olivia Woodson: I am currently a full-time junior here at the OHS (and a co-editor here at the Pixel Journal!), and compete both nationally and internationally in horseback riding competitions.  I currently train with 2008 Olympic Team Gold Medalist, Laura Kraut, and the 2012 Olympic Team Gold Medalist and 2016 Individual Gold Medalist, Nick Skelton.  During the year I typically spend about 9 months traveling to various shows across the country, and this summer for the first time I will be traveling to Europe. I am also a “working student” which means I work close to full time hours flatting other peoples horses, cleaning tack, and mucking stalls.  When I am not traveling for shows, I live in Wellington, Florida with my three younger brothers.  

PJ: When was the first time you rode a horse and started to train competitively?

OW: I can’t specifically remember the first time I rode a horse, but I grew up in the “horsey” town of Woodside, California located right next to Stanford.  Most of our neighbors had horses and the town was comprised of miles of trails.  The town market even had a hitching post to park your horse.  I started taking lessons at age 5 and competing at age 7. 

OW: Why are you passionate about riding?

Riding is such an incredible sport.  There are so few sports where you are able to interact and form a special bond with an animal.  Connecting with the horses is really what originally drew me to riding and what gets me out of bed every morning.  Once you master a specific skill or understand a new feeling its addicting.  In the moment when everything is perfect, and the horse is completely synced to you it is the most incredible experience.  That feeling is what drives my passion.   

Olivia after winning the USEF National Pony Medal Finals in 2013

PJ: What is your fondest riding memory?

OW: My most memorable moment as a rider was when I finally figured out how to see my “diagonals.”  This is such a rudimentary skill in horseback riding, but when I was younger I had such a hard time with it.  This moment has stuck with me for so many years because it was really the first time I tried to learn a new skill and mastered it.  The feeling you get when you finally are able to feel a concept that has only been in your head is so gratifying. 

PJ: Where is your favorite place to show?

My favorite place to show is Devon, Pennsylvania.  The show is 176 years old this year and is rich in tradition.  The town is also what really makes this show special because it is cute and quaint.  The local bakery makes the best bread I’ve ever had.

PJ: What does your training regimen look like?

OW: My training regimen differs depending on if I am showing or not.  We do not show the horses every weekend as that would be too hard on them.  I am typically at the barn weekdays from 7:00 till 2:30 riding between 5-8 horses in addition to doing other barn work.  On show weekends I can be at the barn and show for anywhere from 10-12 hours a day.  I also work out during the week with a trainer doing weights and cardio emphasizing muscles needed to ride.

PJ: How do you balance OHS with riding?

OW: Balancing riding, working and my class load at OHS is really challenging.  I have to focus on time management to get everything done on time.  Luckily I have a great support system of family, friends and understanding instructors at OHS.

PJ: Do you see this as a long term career?

OW: Riding is unique in that you can ride and compete as long as you are physically able.  For example, my trainer, Nick Skelton was the one of the oldest competitors at the 2016 Olympics winning a gold medal at age 57. Age is an advantage in this sport as you have more experience and abilities to get sponsors.  Ultimately I would like to run my own business and compete for the US in team competitions.

Olivia competing in Wellington in 2013.

PJ: What are your plans after you graduate OHS?

OW: After I graduate OHS, I am planning on riding on an NCAA team while in college.  After college I will become a professional and most likely get a job working with a top rider in the industry and then build from there.  If I didn’t ride, I would like to become a screenwriter and write a comedic horror about an old woman who murders people in bathrooms.  

PJ: As many people know, you have an obsession with Ben Franklin, how did this start?

OW: Benjamin Franklin in my opinion is one of the only true geniuses to ever live.  The first time I read his work was freshman year in Dr. Smith’s class “Revolutions and Rebellions.”  I instantly fell in love with the style and candor of his writing.  Since then, my obsession has grown as I learn more about his contributions and his amazing life.