About Maria
María Aponte is an Elite Dressage Rider
World Equestrian Games 2022
Pan American Games 2015, 2019,& 2023
USDF Bronze, Silver, and Gold medalist
Why dressage?
My love for the sport began very early on. My mom used to ride and had horses at our farm. When I turned five, my parents took me to my first vaulting lesson, and from that day on, I was hooked. I began my riding career as a jumper. I thought dressage was boring and found jumping fun and exciting. When I turned eight, my parents bought me my first horse, an ex-jumper who was terrified of jumps. I tried jumping him, but every time we tried, I would fall off. So, I decided to switch to disciplines and focus on dressage. Not long after that, I started to fall in love with dressage. I think I love dressage so much because of the partnership you build with each horse. For me, it's not just about getting on and riding a test. It's about the trust and the daily achievements that you make with your horse
Career Goals
Within the next five years, I want to continue to learn from all of my trainers and mentors to develop into a better rider and trainer. I want to have established a business where I can focus on competing and teaching a group of younger people how to become international dressage riders. To make this business successful, I have to sell and buy horses and acquire sponsors who believe in me to ride and compete with their horses and back me up financially. Having a supportive team behind me is fundamental for my success as an international rider. Parallel to all of this, I want to continue to work alongside my parents in the family business.
Family and their support of your equestrian goals?
My parents have unconditionally supported me since the very beginning. They have been behind me every step of the way and continue to support me. I would not be where I am today without their help. TI have to say that my parents are my biggest supporters, and they are a huge part of my success.
What unique skills do you bring in your training of horses and riders that you think will set you apart from other?
Training availability based at Stillpoint Farm clients can trailer in for lessons and I can go to different farms to teach. I grew up in a country where dressage is not common and has very little support. At a young age, I had to learn how to develop my riding skills through books and videos because there weren't really any top riders in Colombia. Coming to the US as a junior rider from Colombia to compete and train with no one knowing your name was very difficult. Those experiences gave me so courage and determination that I can share with new up-and-coming riders. This taught me a lot about pushing through the hard times and fixing your mistakes and continuing to develop your strengths.
