SARAH STEVENSON

How did you get your start with horses?
I was in my first horse show when I was 18 months old. It was a leadline class and my parents like to tell the story that all the other kids in the class cried when their parents put them up on the horse and I was the only kid who cried when it was time to get off the horse. I was hooked. I got my first pony Princess at age 3 and started competing in California Gymkhana Association events. I graduated to more advanced horses and went to State Finals on my pony Dudley in 2000. I had my heart horse Buckshot for 20 years and he was perfect. I competed with him in gymkhanas and California High School Rodeo. I got my varsity letter in high school rodeo my senior year. I studied Animal Science at the University of California Davis with an emphasis in Production Livestock and Equine Health. I feel profoundly lucky to be working in my field and continuing my horse education. 

How you did you get involved in polo?
I interviewed with OC Polo in spring of 2021. It was my first time in an English saddle and on a Thoroughbred. Sweet Rafiki took good care of me and I fell in love with the sport. Heather, Bekah and Mila are wonderful coaches and I learned so much from them implicitly and explicitly. I am excited about becoming a stronger player. 

What do you enjoy most about polo?
I am in awe of the sheer athleticism of the horses and the players. I absolutely love the camaraderie and communication that happens in the arena. I love seeing players set their teammates up for success and encourage each other. I thoroughly love listening to the game. You can tell the horses really love to play and I enjoy seeing the players’ confidence grow. The game is a joy to watch unfold. 

What is the best part of your job?
It really fills my cup to see confidence expand. Whether that looks like an adult rider gaining new skills, a child taking their first lessons or a horse learning new boundaries; I find this so exciting. I love improving upon an already exceptional level of horse husbandry. Thank you to all the riders who have entrusted their growth to me, I am so honored to be a part of your horse journey.