MQHA Member Spotlight: Michelle Speck
Name: Michelle Speck
Where are you from: Hillsboro, MO
How long have you been showing horses? Since I was 8 years old in 4-H, then started AQHA in 2004.
How long have you been in Missouri? My whole life.
What is your favorite horse show? I have a few favorites I love going to the NSBA world show cause there are so many classes and opportunities to show. The Congress even without a horse there is so much to watch and lots of shopping. I really love any horse show. It is my vacation time with friends and horses.
What is your favorite event to show in? I love the trail.
What is your favorite class to watch? Trail
Who is your all-time favorite horse? And why? My all time favorite horse it right now a tie. I like to get the younger horses and make them into all around horses. RU Radical (Rodeo) was a great horse that was only 3 when I purchased him at the Congress and in less then 2 years he was 3rd in the level 2 junior tail at the world show with Brendon Mehochko. He was quirky and kept me on my toes but was excellent at the trail. Due to unfortunate injury he passed way too early. I now have the pleasure of owning Keeping it Fancy (Bentley) and he is coming along great in the all around classes. I can’t wait to see what the future has for him. He is fancy in the trail and has a personality that I love.
If you are not at a horse show, what would we find you doing? I am usually working. I do love camping and floating on the river.
Do you have another job…besides taking care of your horses? Yes I am the supervisor at Grant’s Farm with the Budweiser Clydesdales.
Favorite food? Steak, pasta and pizza.
Favorite restaurant? Texas Roadhouse
Favorite fun class at a horse show? Apple dunking. Great on a hot summer day.
Favorite movie? Pure country
Favorite quote? Dream big.
What is your dream vacation? Australia or Ireland.
Tell us something most people don’t know about you? I used to trail ride all the time and miss it. Those were my vacations.
One piece of advice you would like to share with exhibitors who are just getting started? Don’t get discouraged when showing. There are lots of places to improve and even if you don’t win the class it is all about the ride.
If there is anything else you would like to share, please tell us! Don’t be afraid to ride different horses. Each horse is different and teaches you new things. I have had quite a few and they have all made me a better rider.
