As the only SoCal rider on the U.S. Equestrian Federation team, 31-year-old Murrieta resident Sarah Lockman is making her mark on the sport of dressage, with sights set on the Summer Olympics. Here, Lockman talks training in Orange County, overcoming the tragedy of her barn burning to the ground, and what’s next for her and her horse, First Apple.
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How have things changed for you since the barn fire last year?
After the fire, my business was displaced. I had horses in multiple O.C. facilities and lost a lot of equipment. The community came to my rescue, donating not only money but also everything from blankets for the horses to feed and shavings. Not too long after, I decided to go on this new adventure with Gerry Ibanez (from Anaheim Hills) and join Summit Farm with the goal of producing top dressage talent that could represent the United States in international competition as well as importing top-quality dressage horses and selling them in the United States.
What makes Summit Farm an ideal place to train?
Summit Farm is a 22-acre facility in the La Cresta mountains. It’s beautiful and has such an element of serenity. The horses also love it there. They are athletes, and we are asking them to perform at the height of their ability, so it’s important we give them everything they need. With the boutiquelike setting and only 12 stalls, each horse gets quality care.
Are you a member of any local organizations?
I am a member of the California Dressage Society and have supported Southern California’s local United States Pony Clubs groups by holding youth dressage clinics.
What’s next?
Since age 7, I’ve wanted to make it to the Olympics, and that hasn’t changed. We are hoping to do the Olympic selection trials in Florida to qualify for the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo. I believe if you work hard consistently and keep pushing to get better at your sport, the opportunities will come. I’m very focused on the present so I can position myself for the future.
Photography by: Tim Melideo
