Meet Sponsored Rider:
Ashley Marascalco
Riding Warehouse is pleased to sponsor Ashley Marascalco, an accomplished USDF Bronze, Silver, and Gold medalist! Currently based in Alpharetta, Georgia, Ashley is passionate about both coaching and training horses at all stages in their careers, including working up to the Grand Prix level. Our RW crew thoroughly enjoys supporting Ashley's equestrian career, and we encourage you to read on to learn more about this talented and dedicated equestrian!
Ashley's Background
I am from Gainesville, Georgia and grew up riding in Dahlonega. My mom took me to my first lesson when I was five, and I was hooked from the very first ride! I had an incredible dressage coach there in Dahlonega who put a lot of focus on rider biomechanics, which has given me such a strong foundation.
Initially, I started out riding a pony, then rode an OTTB, and then when I was only ten years old, I got my first Warmblood. With that horse, I earned my USDF Bronze and Silver Medals, both by the time I was sixteen. In my late twenties, I began working at a Hanoverian breeding farm, where I started and showed young dressage horses. It was through that job that I met my coach, Roel Theunissen. Fast-forward thirteen years, and Roel's guidance has helped me reach the Grand Prix level as both a trainer and a coach.
Right now, I'm immersed in the process of learning how to develop Grand Prix horses and riders. Looking forward, I'd love to compete internationally and build a program known for producing top-quality horses with integrity, all while keeping horse welfare and joy front and center.
Q & A With Ashley:
What lessons have you learned from working with horses?
Pretty much everything worth knowing! They've taught me patience, integrity, discipline, resilience, and how to balance life in general.
Do you have a favorite show or memory?
Definitely my first Grand Prix with Dracarys, owned by Roel Theunissen. Roel giving me the ride on his horse was a huge vote of confidence. Dracarys wasn't the easiest in the beginning, but with Roel's coaching, he's become confident and solid in his work. It was such a proud moment for all of us!
What's next for you and Dracarys?
Dracarys and I are scheduled to head down to Wellington for the coming winter show season. We will continue chipping away at the Grand Prix to refine everything and continue to build confidence. He's continuing to improve every day at home in both strength and confidence, so I'm feeling really good about where he is overall!
How do you overcome any fears or obstacles?
After a serious injury in 2019, fear was a huge challenge. I just kept showing up, one ride at a time. With Roel's support, Dracarys' partnership, and guidance from my sports psychologist, Cheryl Williams, I slowly rewired that fear into confidence again.
I also stopped worrying about what others think and focused on riding for myself, my horse, and my coach. Confidence isn't something you're given, it's something you earn through consistency, hard work, and showing up even when it's hard.
What advice would you give to other riders to help them on their equestrian journey?
Stay humble and keep learning. The horses are always our best teachers. Listen to them, respect them, and never stop striving to be better for them. This sport takes grit and patience, but the journey is so worth it.
Do you have any favorite products?
Yes! The Pyranha Shine Baby Shine Coat Conditioner Spray works great, and the price really sets it apart. I think the EQyss Survivor Detangle & Shine Equine Spray is the best on the market. It lasts the longest and smells the best! The Rubber Thumb Grip Reins from Correct Connect have been a game changer for me in keeping super steady rein contact. All of my clients use them. Finally, I love the Samshield 2.0 Standard Helmet. This helmet is gorgeous and fits my head shape better than any other!
Closing Thoughts
We hope you enjoyed learning more about sponsored rider Ashley Marascalco's life as a dressage rider. We welcome you to follow Ashley's journey along with us as she continues her story! As always, if you have any questions, please reach out to our friendly customer service team at 1-800-620-9145 or info@ridingwarehouse.com for further assistance. Happy riding!
Stay up to date with Ashley by following her on these platforms:
Instagram: @anm_dressage
Facebook: ANM Dressage
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