It’s no secret that the international pandemic of Covid-19 is taking its toll on everyone, our industry included. Finances are the obvious component, but what about the social? Our industries came together swiftly to get on board with social distancing, in order to protect our customers, and to do our part for our country, But I think we all know that those within our industry are by nature, social beings. So what about that? Our committee did a Zoom call in Mid March, and decided we needed to figure out a way to stay connected, in ways that everyone could feel welcome. So here we are, a blog. We have a series of interviews scheduled for the upcoming months, and I really hope that you enjoy this first one.
Melissa Moore is an American Saddlebred horse trainer, breeder, USEF judge, model, actress and writer. She owns and operates Sunrise Stables in Versailles, KY. Melissa is widely known for her involvement within the American Saddlebred industry, as well as being a fantastic promoter nationwide of all our beloved trotting breeds. This made her seem like an obvious choice for our inaugural interview on the blog. We were all confident that this was something she would be supportive of, and we are thrilled to have been correct!
YP: What is the best piece of advice your parents gave to you when you became a professional in the industry? MM: My Mother was adamant that I got a college education. She realized my passion for horses and the industry, but she felt it very important to go to college. Which I did. And I graduated with an Associates degree in Fashion Design. Once I became a professional, they instilled that there is no substitute for work. The harder you work, the luckier you get. YP: Do you take after your mother (Donna Moore) or your father (Tom Moore) more in relation to training? Day to day business conduct? Philosophy? MM: I feel like I take after both. I train more like my mom, but I get my work ethic from my father. My mom had a great eye of putting teams together, my father never left his farm and worked 24/7. He was also very innovative with programs to help our industry. They both were immersed in all aspects of the industry. I am very fortunate to have them as role models. YP: What is your best piece of advice to new young professionals in the industry? MM: Find someone to work for that you respect and compliments your personality. Learn all you can from everyone you meet, whether it be a trainer, care taker, vet, farrier or client. Knowledge is power. And humble yourself to realize it is okay to be wrong. We learn more from our mistakes than our successes. YP: What do you believe to be the key components necessary to run a successful business? MM: A good work ethic is key! I find so many people talk the talk. If someone is constantly on social media offering advice on how to be successful, they are not successful. Success comes from hard work day in and day out. Success comes from understanding your clients and horses. Success comes from understanding the horse. Results in the show ring will attract clients to you. Once you have the clients, they will respect your work ethic. But it is also important to have a good relationship with your clients and take time to listen to their needs. There is a balance between entertaining the clients and working the horses. Find your client that compliments what you have to offer. YP: What advice do you have for an AOT trying to be competitive in a ring full of professionally presented mounts? MM: Professionalism. You are competing against trainers that cross their T’s and dot their I’s. Exceptional turn out is so important. The condition of the horse and the presentation of your horse and equipment says a lot about a person. It’s the small things that make the big things work. So don’t skimp on the details. YP: Do you have any tips or tricks on how to stay calm before showing? MM: NO! I am always nervous. I care so much about every horse and every client and I truly want to bring out the horses best. So nerves are just part of me. I just put on a brave face and believe I can do anything. Plus I am spiritual and I pray a lot for strength and to do the best to my ability. Faith!
This or That Junior League or KSF? Jr. League only because I think too much importance is put on one show, KSF Chestnut or bay? Neither, a great horse is a great horse no matter the color Chocolate or vanilla? Vanilla, Breyer vanilla bean to be exact Coffee or tea?
Coffee, all day. I drink about 5 cups a day.
Morning person or Night owl?
Morning. I love the start of a new days. I love sunrises.
Swish or Eeta Sachon?
NOT FAIR. BOTH. They were/are both amazing show horses. Totally different personalities. I am blessed to have had both of them and had the opportunity to show them.
Interview conducted by: Cate Lynch
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