All in the Reining Family

Craig Schmersal (left) with customer and friend Tim AndersonThe older I become the more I appreciate the customers and friends I have made in the reining industry. I have lost several friends and clients in the past few years that should not have been lost so young.  We are so busy working and trying to win the next big event that we forget to take time to appreciate why we all do what we do.

I think the relationships I have made over the years is what I love the most about what I do. I am with my horse friends most of the time and sometimes don’t always take time to talk to them or spend time with them at the shows due to schedule, exhaustion etc.

This month, I lost a client and friend to a car accident — he left behind a wife and two daughters. It made me realize again that if I have something to say to my loved ones and friends, I should say it now. All of my best friends are either clients, fellow competitors or somehow involved in the horse industry. I feel lucky to have them in my life and am grateful that I have my reining family. I know that these losses have made me appreciate them all more.

About Craig

Reining horse professional Craig Schmersal is the 4th all-time leading rider, with earnings of more than 3 million dollars!. Over the last decade, Craig has won almost all of the major reining events, often taking all three of his entries into the finals.