LYPA Rider of the Week: Daytona Santiago

This week’s Rider of the Week is from Waupaca, WI. Daytona is a very active rider in her community and is happiest when she’s around her horses, or in the saddle!

5 Quick Questions:

Q: How did you get into riding?

I’ve always wanted a horse ever since I was really little. My parents got me horse back riding lessons for my 6th birthday and I’ve been riding ever since.

Q:Do you have a good luck charm?

My good luck charm are my tie dye jeans from Ranch Dressn. Every time I wear them at competitions we always do really good! I was wearing them when I won 2016 NBHA Youth 2D State Champion.

Q:Why do you ride?

I ride because being around horses makes me happy and it’s what I love to do. My horses are what I care about most!

Q:How do you calm those pesky show nerves?

I get really nervous before runs. I usually sing a song in my head while I’m waiting for my turn. I also use lavender oil on me and my horse. But what really helps me is to loosen up my legs and feet so I’m not sitting so stiff from being nervous, just petting my horse, not watching the other riders as I’m waiting, and talking to someone.

Q: What’s the best piece of horse advice you’ve been given?

When Tai was first being trained for barrels, I would get some lessons once in a while to help me ride her better. I was told to scream with my legs, whisper with my hands. This has really helped me because instead of steering with my hands, I use leg pressure. I’ve worked on this a lot with Tai and now we can do the barrel pattern without me having to use reins at all, I just use leg pressure and this has really helped our pattern!

Follow Daytona to see what she’s up too!!
Instagram: @daytona_santiago

Check out the Lakota blog next Tuesday for the next LYPA Rider of the Week…it could be you!