Each issue, MSEDA will highlight a member who is active in the organization to give other members a peek into their horse-loving lives. Interested in being featured? Email Sarah at redhorseenterprise@gmail.com.
By Sarah E. Coleman
A top three finisher in the Western Dressage Association of America World Show in Oklahoma last year (and the overall highest score breed award winner!), Jane Brack is not lacking in the passion department. Whether it’s for becoming a better equestrienne, Civil War reenactments or her students she is joyful each facet of her life. Read on to discover just what she did (and it’s amazing!) when her husband issued her this challenge: Do something about it!
MSEDA: Where do you live?
Jane Brack: I live in Indiana.
MSEDA: What piqued your interest in MSEDA?
JB: I was looking for an organization to join that included Western Dressage in their shows and group.
MSEDA: How long have you been a MSEDA member?
JB: This is my first year as being a member of MSEDA.
MSEDA: When did you begin riding?
JB: I begin riding at the age of 2 and showing solo at age 4.
MSEDA: What is your background in horses?
JB: I was raised with horses where I enjoyed trail riding, showing in open shows (western pleasures, reining and speed events) and was also a 10 year 4-H member. After marriage, my children began riding and showing at a young age as well. Our family participated in Civil War reenacting, where we portray a cavalry impression--my husband and I continue to do so today.
MSEDA: How long have you been competing?
JB: I have been competing for 48 years.
MSEDA: When did you get your first horse?
JB: Age 4
MSEDA: How many horses do you own now?
JB: We have three horses, but I compete on Hank.
MSEDA: How did you get him? I bought him at the age of 3.
MSEDA: What horses do you compete and what do you compete in?
JB: I compete with Hank, my mustang/Quarter Horse cross.
MSEDA: What is your favorite event? Why?
JB: I LOVE FREESTYLE! Freestyle is just that: Free! I love to dance with my horse and interpret the music based on the required elements. Hank, my horse, also loves to do freestyle.
MSEDA: What level do you compete in (if you compete)?
JB: We compete in Level 1 Western and Traditional dressage.
MSEDA: What are your horse's favorite treats?
JB: Hank loves peppermints and anything apple.
MSEDA: What is your favorite horse show and why?
JB: I love to show at the Western Dressage Association of America World Show in Oklahoma. Last year, we finished third and also an overall highest score breed award.
MSEDA: Do you have any good luck rituals?
JB: I believe hard work brings good luck!
MSEDA: What do you do full time? Do you enjoy it?
JB: I am an elementary school principal and I do enjoy it, although I missed the classroom at times!
MSEDA: How did you get into this job?
JB: I had a child who struggled in school and one day while complaining about how there must be a better way to help struggling students, my husband challenged me to “do something about it.” So I went to college in my 30s to become a teacher.
MSEDA: What are your favorite equestrian brands?
JB: Thinline reins and saddle pad.
MSEDA: What are your horse's quirks?
JB: Easy: Monsters at “M!”
MSEDA: What is your goal this year?
JB: My goal this year is to move up from 3rd at the World Show!
MSEDA: Who do you ride with?
JB: Janice Holmes.
MSEDA: Where do you ride?
JB: Holmestead Stables.
MSEDA: What is your favorite part of your barn/trainer/boarding stable?
JB: I love the friendly atmosphere where the boarders/riders/trainers all share in the same goal: To continually grow as a better rider and horse person.
MSEDA: What is the biggest obstacle you have overcome with your horse?
JB: When my horse was in his early training, his trot was so horrid that I could not stand to sit it more than a few strides. Luckily, I found an awesome trainer who took on his faults and made him a wonderful partner! He also sees a lot of monsters in the ring!
MSEDA: Describe your horse in 10 words.
JB: Handsome, smart, willing partner, quick learner, evader of left aids, my friend!
MSEDA: What is your favorite memory?
JB: Placing third at the world show.
MSEDA: What other animals do you own?
JBL Two jack Russell Terriers: Molly and Maddie.
MSEDA: Do you have active roles in horse-related organizations?
JB: Yes: Western Dressage Association of American (WDAA) and North American Western Dressage (NAWD).
MSEDA: What are you passionate about other than horses?
JB: My family of three children, four grandchildren and my husband of 34 years. I also am passionate about creating a wonderful learning environment for my students.
MSEDA: What is one piece of advice you wish you had when you were younger?
JB: Life goes by in a flash--don’t sweat the small stuff and enjoy the ride!
