Melissa MacLaren Velix of MMV Dressage

1)    What's your first memory with horses? How did you get involved with them? 

I first got into horses through a friend. Her mother and sisters were all very active in jumping, dressage, and eventing. Me and my friend had the pleasure of learning all the basics of horse care from a blind pony named Sox. We would brush that pony and play with him with a halter and two lead ropes for hours. He was the best babysitter ever. 

2)    What’s your philosophy when you work with horses?

It starts with trust and the relationship between horse and rider. Not every horse is the same and they don’t all learn in the same way. Patience is key with every horse. 

Photo Credit Meg McGuire Photography

3)    What do you love most about your job? 

That not every day is the same. I love to see what the horses want to “show me” about what they learned the day before. 

4)    What's the greatest challenge about your job?

That there are not enough hours in the day, but I wouldn’t trade the hard work happiness for anything!

5)    Where's your favorite place to horse show?

My favorite place to show is Global Dressage Festival

6)    What are you most looking forward to this season? 

Bringing Barroco out at the Grand Prix for the first time. 

7)    What's your favorite memory as a professional so far?

I do not have one favorite memory. There are way too many! Most recently I was the proud trainer of Rebecca Hart at the last WEG when she landed her first ever Bronze and Silver medals. Rebecca is short listed for Tokyo and we’re looking forward to joining the US Para Equestrian team this Fall. 

8)    How do you describe success in terms of a relationship between a horse and a rider?

Whether it is in the ground or in the saddle success to me is when you and your horse are enjoying each other. It’s not about the movements or the highest level you can ride. It’s about loving what you are doing with your horse. 

10)    Who is your all-time favorite horse and why?

I have three all time favorite horses because each one taught me more than I could have ever imagined whether it was how to do tempi changes for the first time or learning to train piaffe and passage for the first time or how to tactfully ride a test in a show when your horse is not cooperating. Their names are Sam, Otelo, and Barroco

11)    What do you like most about HorseWorks Insurance? 

They are always there for me. Whenever I have a question about coverage or need to change something in my coverage they are there and quick. I also love that they are so involved with their customers and their horses. 

12)    What is your favorite (non-horsey) hobby?

Fishing!!

13)    What's the best piece of horse advice any one's ever given you?

There is always tomorrow. You don’t have to fix everything in one day. 

14)    What advice do you have for anyone aspiring to be a pro in this industry?

It is not an easy sport and you will second guess yourself. Horses don’t always follow your plan but do not give up. The journey is worth it. 

Photo Credit Meg McGuire Photography