Meet Free Ride Sponsored Rider Lawson Whitaker:
I am currently based out of Ocala, Florida, training with GE Sporthorses. I own 5 horses, all ranging from the Medium Jr/Am up to the National Grand Prix level in showjumping. I started riding when I was 5 years old, taking after my big sister, Rileigh. I watched her in a lesson and was inspired to start. The next day I was on a pony and they never got me off.
When I was ready to start showing, around 7-8 years old, I started in the pony hunters. At 9 years old I chose to start doing the jumpers. When I was 14 i started riding with GE Sporthorses, I started in the 1m and 2 years later at 16 years old, I jumped my first Grand Prix. Now I am 19, turning 20 in February, and I am competing in National Grand Prixs, U25 and the High Jr/Am.
"Once you gain the connection with your horse, where you are one being, that’s when the success starts to come."
What’s the most important lesson your trainer has taught you?
An important lesson from my current trainer, Gaston Escamez, is something that he tells me quite frequently, “A rider is not a rider without their horse." Meaning, the partnership between you and your horse needs to be strong. If the connection with your horse is not strong, you will not have 100% trust. Once you gain the connection with your horse, where you are one being, that’s when the success starts to come.
Do you have a routine or item for good luck before a competition? If so, what is it?
10/10 recommend blasting rap music in the car on your way to a show! Really wakes you up.
Who inspires you to push further, show up more, and to keep striving to the next level?
My lord and savior, Jesus Christ. Without him I wouldn’t be where I am today.
What are your Favorite Free Ride Pieces?
The Free Ride Black Pro Breeches and ALL of the Cassidy Show Shirts!! Who doesn’t need a pair (or 10) of black breeches? They’re lightweight, grippy, and sooo flattering. The Cassidy show shirts are my go to for competition! The light material makes the entire shirt breathable, they’re super stretchy, and the designs are subtle but make a huge difference.