Meet Sponsored Rider: Mia Farley

By Lindsay & Guest Contributor: Mia Farley

Publish Date August 23, 2025

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4 min read

Riding Warehouse is delighted to sponsor Mia Farley, an accomplished 5* level eventer! Mia's riding career began as a young child. She started out riding ponies in the hunter ring, then at the age of just seven years old, a young Mia was introduced to the discipline of eventing. She was immediately enamored with it! Since then, Mia has moved up the levels to become an FEI 5* rider, with many top placings at FEI events. Our Riding Warehouse crew enjoys supporting Mia's exciting endeavors and invites you to read about her journey to learn more about this talented equestrian.

Mia's Background

I am from San Clemente, California, and I started riding when I was three years old—practically from the womb! My mom worked with horses and did not want to hire a babysitter, so I came with her to the barn, which she probably now regrets as I became obsessed very early on.

I give a ton of credit for my success to my mom and to moving east in 2018 to train with David and Karen O'Connor. I feel like that was when everything started to come together. At the time, I was at a pivotal point in my riding career and had considered not continuing on as a professional. Then I got the opportunity with the O'Connors and I wanted to give it 100% of my effort and see where I could go. David really believes in the horsemanship and groundwork side of things, and learning how to better train and become an empathetic rider from him was a huge step for me. When I started implementing what I'd learned from David is when things really started going even better for me.

With looking at both present and future, I always want to work on bettering myself and my horses every day. I really focus on getting stronger in every phase so I can be as well-rounded as possible. Moving forward, I am working toward building a team of owners with a string of horses at all levels. This sport takes a village, and I am grateful for the people currently supporting me and look forward to making more connections!

Q & A With Mia: Fun Facts

What lessons have horses taught you?

Horses have definitely taught me patience and to trust the process. You have to focus on progress over perfection.

Do you have a favorite event or memory that sticks out?

I would say it was Fair Hill 2019 when I finished second in the 4*L with Firecracker. It was my first time on the big stage, and it was great to have such a competitive result. I think that your first "big" result like that sticks with you.

How do you overcome your fears or obstacles?

I believe that surrounding myself with supportive people is very important. It is easy to doubt yourself, and it is good to have those people to lift you up when you are having those doubts.

What advice would you give to other riders to help them on their equestrian journey?

I would say to trust that if one door closes, another one will open. There is never an end. You can always build upon the things you have created for yourself in the past.

What's your guiding philosophy or mission when it comes to horses?

I really focus on training based on how horses naturally perceive things and showing them what more they can do. They are herd animals, so they are looking for a leader to make them comfortable, and therefore confident. From there, you can keep on building that level of trust and respect they have for you. I had a horse named Teddy, who Amy Bowers has now, who was super shut down. It was really rewarding to help teach him to be on my team and learn to be loved, and seeing that work for him.

Do you have any favorite products?

I really believe in Foxden Quiessence, which is a calming supplement.

Closing Thoughts

We hope you enjoyed learning more about sponsored rider Mia Farley's journey as an event rider. Her story is a shining example of how far hard work and believing in yourself can take you. We encourage you to follow Mia alongside us and cheer for her on her equestrian endeavors! Should you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to our helpful customer service team at 1-800-620-9145 or info@ridingwarehouse.com for assistance. Happy riding!

Stay up to date with Mia by following her on these platforms:

Instagram: @_miafarley

Facebook: Mia Farley Eventing

About the Authors

Mia Farley

Guest Contributor

Mia began her riding career in CA riding ponies in the hunter ring. After being introduced to eventing at age 7, she was instantly addicted to the sport! Mia is now an FEI 5* rider. She has been selected to ride for the USEF/USEA U18 and U25 since 2014, which is a true honor. Mia has moved up the levels of eventing with many top placings at FEI events. In 2019, she placed Reserved Champion at Fairhill in the 4*L. She was the 2019 young rider of the year as well as number one young rider at the advanced level. Mia's dreams are non-stop in the sport of eventing. Recently, her goal to compete abroad representing her country has been achieved as she was a member of the FEI Eventing Nations Cup Bicton CCIO4* team!

Lindsay

Riding Warehouse Employee

With over 20 years of equestrian experience, Lindsay marvels at the lessons horses can teach every day. From show jumping to raising young horses, she enjoys working with and developing horses of all ages. She continues to enjoy expanding her equestrian knowledge, riding her two geldings, Felix and Dexter, and caring for her own small herd of broodmares and foals!

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