HRN: Racing's Future: Natalie Rietkerk

Each time I post a new article on my Horse Racing Nation blog, I post a notice on this blog. These notices include an excerpt from the beginning of that article and a link to the piece. My latest Horse Racing Nation article is. . .


Racing's Future: Natalie Rietkerk

“Racing’s Future” is a Q&A series in which I aspire to help everyone in the industry. In addition to shining a spotlight on youth who plan to have a career in horse racing, I hope that the opinions expressed in their responses will offer industry leaders insight into what a younger audience believes the sport should improve upon.

Meet Natalie Rietkerk

Natalie Rietkerk, a 25-year-old equine enthusiast living in Orange County, California, gained her love for horse racing as the great-granddaughter of a Thoroughbred trainer and breeder. An equestrian for nearly 20 years and a horse owner since age 12, Natalie’s riding career began with dressage before she became involved with hunter-jumpers – with a special interest in developing young horses. She has a 5-year-old Belgian Sport Horse gelding named Otto whom she has had since he was a yearling and hopes to show him in hunter derbies in the near future. Natalie has been able to combine her love of equestrian sports and horse racing as the Project Manager for the California Retirement Management Account (CARMA) – a nonprofit which funds more than 20 Thoroughbred aftercare organizations and helps retired racehorses find successful second careers. She also serves as Event Manager for the Thoroughbred Classic Horse Show, which was specifically created to give off-track-Thoroughbreds and their owners a place to showcase their skills in jumping, dressage, western and horsemanship classes. . ."


Click here to read the rest of my newest Horse Racing Nation article.