beginner adult to top level? possible?

[eventingrules]

Does anyone know of any upper level riders that started out as older beginners? I know this sounds crazy, but I am 33 and still a beginner/novice and have dreams of getting through the cross country course at Rolex in Kentucky (US). I know that a lot of the top rider's are in their 40-50's, but am sure they all started out as kids. I rode for a couple of years as a kid, but stopped riding until just last year. Now, I have changed everything in my life so it revolves around horses. I started taking lessons, then started working at the farm, then switched barns/trainers to a coach that has developed A level horses/riders and am going to talk to her today about becomming a working student. In 2 weeks I am going back to college to get a certificate in Stable Management (this after already having 2 4yr degrees in other areas...I was getting ready to apply to medical school before I realized I had to work with horses). Luckily, my husband is sooooo supportive of this drastic life change! Anyway, I was just wondering about others that may have started out late, but eventually made it to upper levels. They say to set your goals high...to dream the impossible dream. Don't get me wrong, I haven't gone completely over the deap end, but it sure would be great to compete at top levels some day! Who knows, right??? :D

[Crazyhorse]

I remember reading somewhere that Paul Schockemohle (sucessful German showjumper) didn't start riding until his late 20's and got to the top of his game. I suppose anything is possible if you are willing to put the time, dedication, effort, have some natural ability, and be prepared to make a lot of sacrifices! It is also a question of money ie the kind of horse/horses needed for high class comps.

[Chromelotus]

Riders are like fine wines: the longer they mature the better they get! You CAN do it and, if you are determined, you WILL! Good luck to you! :D

[Lindsayanne]

Well there's no one to stop you from having a BLAST trying!! :D You sounds like a real go-getter- so if any one could I bet it would be you. I certainly see no reason you couldn't if you had the time and money to put into it. Fact is, and you probably know this, 1 or 2 group lessons a week on a good but not great horse with an average but not excellent trainer ain't gonna get ya there- :o I'd be looking at private lessons 3-4 times a week with a great trainer(s)- which it sounds like you are doing from your interest in building a training relationship with that trainer.

I started riding a few months ago at 23. I'd don't have quite such lofty goals, but would really like to be an instructor someday- I think I would have really valued a trainer who started riding as an adult- I've yet to meet a riding instructor who remembers learning to ride.

[Wobblydeb]

You will never know unless you try! :D Even if no-one has done it so far - somebody has got to be the first haven't they? :D

You go girl...

[eventingrules]

wow! Thanks everyone! I appreciate the support. Like I said, I haven't gone completely mad about it, but have decided to do what I can to see if I can make my dream come true. I've worked out a deal to get 3 one hour private lessons/week and then one group. I LOVE working really hard to achieve goals! And yes, it will be fun to try to get as good as I can get! :D