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Saddlebred Strong Series: A Boy and His Horse

Often it is only the victory pass smiles and post-win interviews that give champions of our community an opportunity to share their Saddlebred story. Yet, for most, the road to that accomplishment started way before you ever thought about a blue ribbon. The journey involves more passion and commitment than one can convey in a one-minute interview. Many achievements in this world are lifelong goals, and they get that title because of the time and dedication it takes to get there. So when one gets the opportunity to give a window into the love they have for their horse, this sport and our community, it is a special moment. This year one dedicated ASHA junior member and American Saddlebred lover got the rare chance to achieve his #asbdreams and go above and beyond to #sharethesaddlebred with the world. 

Michael Arquilla is this special young man. In the ring, Arquilla was a force to be reckoned with this year in the Senior Saddle Seat Equitation division. He took home a World’s Champion title and two jewels of the Saddle Seat Equitation Triple Crown. That in itself is a tremendous achievement, but what is unique about this Saddlebred Strong Story is the partnership behind these accomplishments. His special bond with his longtime partner CH-EQ Mooi Mooi, aka “Nelson,” has inspired everyone from his barn family to US Equestrian to highlight their incredible #asbdreams journey this year. 

Michael and Nelson, as he is affectionately known at home, have a remarkable bond that can be seen in the ring, out of the ring and everywhere in between. They radiate that undeniable love and commitment that is only possible between two partners that are wholly dedicated to each other. One could say they go together like peanut butter and jelly or better yet maybe beet pulp and water. Michael had a story to tell and a devotion to his American Saddlebred partner that needed to be shared. Michael's knowledge matched with his strong relationship with Nelson made him the perfect candidate to share his Saddlebred Story to help educate other young equestrians about the American Saddlebred and Saddle Seat Equitation. During his spectacular season Michael and Nelson volunteered to assist in multiple account takeovers, interviews and explainer videos to give a behind the Saddlebred scenes perspective to people of Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. Their features were fine examples of the attention to detail, rider dedication and devotion to caring for your horse that is required to be a top young equestrian in the American Saddlebred community.

While often achieving your #asbdreams means sacrifice of many different forms, one sacrifice Michael refused to make was to part ways with his trusted partner. Together since almost day one of Michael’s equitation career, their connection prevailed division change, age group transitions and the potential for “better” opportunities. This year this combination got to cash in on those years of experience, understanding and hard work. As their trainer Mark Bodnar shared, "No one believed in this horse as much as this kid right here." In the end, they achieved Michael’s equitation goals, and most importantly, they were able to do it together as a boy and his horse. 

We congratulate Michael on his accomplishments and thank him and the Equitate LLC team for allowing us to come along for the ride. His dedication to Nelson is an excellent example of loving partnerships throughout the American Saddlebred community. We thank Michael for volunteering his time during the most significant moments of his equestrian career to help #sharethesaddlebred and are proud to have him as a young leader working to build a Saddlebred Strong future!