It’s a rather rainy morning when we meet Emma Marlowe, a talented American showjumper who has made a name for herself in the international equestrian scene in recent years. Emma's journey to success is not just a story of talent but also of perseverance, passion, and a deep-rooted love for horses. As we walk through her impressive career, she candidly shares how her journey began and how she developed into the rider she is today. With new ventures ahead, the 26 years old is determined to put her mark on the sport and business side of it.
"I grew up with horses, actually from the moment I was born," Emma begins with a smile. Her mother had a riding school in California, and horses were an integral part of their family life. "We had horses in our backyard, and my mom trained me until I was fifteen. It never felt like a chore; she always gave me the choice. But for me, there was never a choice. I didn’t want to do anything else."
Emma started her riding journey with ponies and took part in local competitions at a small level. Although resources were limited, that didn’t stop her ambition. "We didn’t have the financial means to go to big competitions or buy expensive ponies. We worked with what we had, and I knew from a young age that I wanted to grow. So, I was always looking for opportunities to work my way up to a higher level."
At the age of fifteen, Emma decided to focus fully on equestrian sports. She switched to online schooling so she could spend more time with the horses. "I was at the barn every day," she says. "I took every opportunity I could, while finishing my school online. I knew from a very young age what I wanted to do, so that choice wasn’t difficult for me." Her mother, a major inspiration, fully supported her. "She loved horses as much as I did and always backed my decisions."
The real breakthrough came when Emma landed a working student position with Leslie Steele, a renowned trainer in the hunter-equitation discipline. "I was still very green at the time," she admits. "I was jumping up to 1.10 meters and had no experience on the A circuit. But Leslie believed in me. She took me to competitions and gave me opportunities that shaped my career. Without her, I never would have been able to make the transition to a higher level."
When she turned eighteen, Emma had to make an important decision: stay amateur or turn professional. "For me, it wasn’t a difficult decision," she says with determination. "I knew I wanted to do this my whole life. My heart was with showjumping, even though I didn’t have much experience with it at that time. I was determined to travel the world and learn from the best in the sport."
A crucial step in her development was participating in the George Morris Horse Mastership Clinic in Wellington, Florida, where she trained with icons like Laura Kraut and Beezie Madden. "That was a life-changing experience," Emma recalls. "Being surrounded by the people I had admired my whole life was incredible. It not only gave me new knowledge but also motivated me to keep going."
At eighteen, Emma moved to Trelawny Farms, where she stayed for seven years and learned everything about showjumping at a high level. "At Trelawny Farms, they taught me everything I know today," she says. "I started jumping at 1.30 meters and worked my way up to 1.40 meters, my first ranking class, my first Grand Prix, and even 5* competitions. It was an amazing learning process, but I had great horses and trainers around me."
Equally instrumental during this formative time was David Bustillos, a Californian trainer who remains a mentor and guiding influence to this day. Together, they nurtured her talent and instilled in her the values that continue to drive her success. In reflecting on her growth as a rider, Emma credits Paul O’Shea as well, as another key influence over the last three years during her time at Trelawny. “Paul has had a huge impact on my riding and my personal growth,” she shares. “He’s made me not only a better rider but also a better person.”
One of the most special horses in Emma's career was Cherokee, an experienced showjumper who took her to new heights. "Cherokee was incredible," she says with gleaming eyes. "He gave me the confidence to compete in classes where I had no business being. He always gave his all. The bond I had with him is what every rider searches for. With that connection, you can achieve anything."
But the path to success didn’t come without challenges. Emma had to make the transition from the American hunter and equitation systems, which focus more on smooth, technical rides, to the speed and precision of showjumping. "It was a big change," she explains. "I had to learn to ride with more rhythm, speed, and technical skill. But everything I learned in equitation has ultimately helped me in showjumping. For me, it’s the basis for correct riding. It teaches correct position and tools you need at the higher levels.”
Emma’s eagerness to learn and determination have brought her to where she is now. She has learned something from every trainer and applies that knowledge every day. "I see myself as an eternal student of the sport," she says. "I always want to keep learning, not just from showjumpers but also from disciplines like dressage and even cowboys. There’s always something new to discover about horses."
First time in Europe
"When I worked for Leslie, I made small trips to Europe to look at horses for the hunter and equitation disciplines. But my real introduction to the European competition circuit came when I worked at Trelawny Farms. Cara organized tournaments in Europe and I had the chance to go. I was lucky enough to compete in young horse classes and 1* events. The equestrian scene in Europe left me speechless. Everything was so different and so inspiring. I felt right at home. Everyone in Europe seems to have a deep passion for horses, and the sport is much more accessible. People have horses in their backyards or just start riding without it being a huge barrier. I’m incredibly grateful that I was exposed to all of that at a young age."
"We spent two summers in Europe. After that, we stopped coming, mainly because the Major League was established in the U.S. It made more sense to stay there rather than constantly ship the horses back and forth. Still, Europe stayed on my mind. The experience that young horses gain here is unparalleled. There was always something that kept pulling me back to Europe."
Where did you start?
"Recently, I had the opportunity to stay with Jos Lansink for three months. It was an incredible experience. I was also fortunate to work with Martin Fuchs and his team for a few weeks. It was hugely educational to see the systems of such top people up close. After my time with Jos Lansink, I knew I wanted to stay in Europe. While I’m still young, this is the place where I need to be to learn. Here, you have access to top training, great young horses, and competitions that are just a few hours away. I wanted to take the plunge and move. Now, I’m based here in Europe, although I’ll be in Florida during the winter months. My dream is to find a combination where I can merge both worlds—the sport in Europe and the business opportunities in America—that’s my ultimate goal."
"There are so many people in the U.S. who also want to come to Europe. I hope to make that gap a little smaller; that’s one of my ambitions."
Goals and ambitions
"My big dream, and I know it sounds cliché, is to make it to the Olympics and ride for the U.S., just like competing in the Senior Nations Cup teams. In the short term, I dream of riding for the U.S. in the 3* Nations Cups here in Europe. They’re a great stepping stone for younger riders. Thanks to the Major League, I’ve already gained some valuable experience. Long-term, I dream of competing in the World Cup finals, championships, and of course, the Olympics."
"Jenny already has a lot of experience with these kinds of goals, and Barry knows exactly how to navigate that path. He understands the process and has the knowledge needed to get there. This combination is incredibly valuable. We want to keep doing this work for as long as we can."
"What I love about this sport is that there are no real time or age limits. Some of the best riders are in their fifties and still active. You never know when you’ll meet that one horse that changes your life."
Partnership with Jenny and Barry – Trinity Partners
In an exciting new venture, Emma has teamed up with top Irish rider Jenny Rankin and renowned trainer and horse dealer Barry O'Connor. Together, under the name of Trinity Partners, they aim to create a unique powerhouse in showjumping, combining their collective experience and knowledge from both the American and European systems. This ambitious project has the potential to shape equestrian sports in a new, innovative way, blending their passion for horses with a deep respect for the traditions of the sport.
Emma Marlowe is clearly enthusiastic about her new partnership. "We all share the same values when it comes to the horses," she says with conviction. "The philosophy of horse welfare and love for them is at the core of everything we do. Without this dedication, we can’t achieve success." It’s this shared vision, along with their diverse backgrounds, that enables them to form a team that is not only competitive but also authentic and valuable to the sport.
What makes this partnership so special is the diversity of experience the team brings. Jenny Rankin, with her extensive experience in European showjumping, is one of the few riders to have proven herself at both national and international levels, having reached the 5* level. Barry O'Connor, on the other hand, is an expert in training riders and finding the right horse for the right person, with countless success stories to his name. Emma herself, having experienced both the American and European systems, brings a unique blend of experience and knowledge to the table.
"The beauty of it is that we all have different strengths," Marlowe explains. "Jenny and I focus primarily on the daily training of the horses and competing. Barry brings his immense experience and wisdom in rider education and finding horses to the team. It’s a symbiotic process, where we strengthen and complement each other. We work together as a team, and that’s what makes it special."
The goal of the partnership is clear: they want to elevate the sport while building a solid business that develops high-quality horses and supports riders at all levels. "The sport and the business side need to go hand in hand," Marlowe says. "I love training, but I also know it’s essential to have a strong business foundation. We want to help develop both clients and sport horses, invest in young horses, and also sell horses that excel in the sport."
Marlowe’s ambitions extend beyond just her personal achievements. “I’ve always been a rider, but I’ve also wanted to be part of something bigger, something that has a lasting impact on the sport. I feel that I’ve now found the right people to make that happen,” she explains. The collaboration between the three is not just focused on the successes of today but also on creating a long-term vision for the future of equestrian sports.
The setup of the project is to create an international network where both riders and horses at all levels have the chance to develop. The team aims to be active in both Europe and the United States. "We want to create a system that is accessible to everyone," Marlowe explains. "From young riders to adult amateurs, from young horses to horses ready for the highest level. We want to create an environment where everyone feels welcome, regardless of their experience or ambition."
What also sets this partnership apart is their logistical approach. The team has decided to establish their base primarily in Europe, but their presence in the United States will allow them to support horses during the winter months. "It’s important to be flexible and adapt to what the situation requires. We want to have the ability to be wherever our clients or horses need us," says Marlowe. This international aspect gives the project a dynamic and agile character, which is essential in the fast-changing world of equestrian sports.
"Emma has been a fantastic addition to the stable, growing up in the hunter and equitation divisions in the states Emma offers knowledge from different training programs that is beneficial for both horses and students."
"Having someone with an entirely different introduction to the sport is interesting for me to work along side and having Emma share the same end goals in the sport makes the journey more enjoyable."
"I am excited about what we can accomplish in the future." - Jenny Rankin
The focus is not just on developing horses and riders but also on preserving the passion for the sport. "The most important thing for us is to create lasting success, both for the horses and the riders. Whether it’s a child riding in their first Grand Prix or an adult discovering their passion for the sport, that’s what we’re here for. It’s incredibly motivating to see how everyone grows and achieves success," Marlowe says. This personal approach, where the success of each individual is celebrated, is at the core of their philosophy.
Ultimately, the goal of this partnership is to make an impact that goes beyond immediate success. "We want to build a business that stands the test of time," says Marlowe. "We want to develop horses that can reach the highest level, but we also want to create a system that ensures horses can remain in the sport for a long time. That takes hard work, dedication, and a solid base of clients we can continue to support over the years."
The trio is clearly determined not only to excel in competition but also to build a business that lays the foundations for a long-lasting and successful future in equestrian sports. It’s an adventure that holds great promise both in sport and business, with a team committed to combining the best of both Europe and America in their pursuit of excellence.
"I knew Emma for a few years already from meeting her on the American circuit. Since she joined us in Holland it has been a pleasure to work with her on a personal and professional level."
"She has great horsemanship and people skills which are a necessity in providing a good service for our investors and training clients." - Barry O’Connor
Other interests in the sport
Emma has always had a deep interest in breeding horses. "In Europe, breeding is such a big part of the sport, and I find it fascinating," she shares. "However, I realize I only understand a fraction of it. I love seeing the different qualities and characteristics in horses. Hopefully, in the future, we can use sport mares that retire as broodmares." Jenny, who has extensive experience in Ireland with raising foals and training horses from saddle breaking to top-level competition, is a person Emma hopes to learn more from in the future.
Emma Marlowe radiates passion when she speaks about horses. Her love for the profession and the animals is palpable. For her, the bond with a horse doesn’t begin with the saddle or training, but with the animal's soul. "The first thing I look at in a horse is its eyes," she says with a smile. "You can tell so much from a horse’s gaze – their character, their heart. It's not always the most talented horses that go the furthest. Often, it’s the horses with character, the ones who really want to do it, that achieve the greatest success." She adds that while athleticism and technical abilities are important, they don’t always make the difference. "True champions are often the horses who exceed expectations, the underdogs who go against the grain. That willpower is something you can’t train; it’s in the horse."
The role of bloodlines
The evolution of the sport has significantly changed the requirements for horses, particularly in breeding. "The sport is becoming faster and more technical," Emma explains. "You need a more modern, ‘bloodier’ type of horse that’s agile and light, but at the same time, the older bloodlines remain essential. They provide strength, endurance, and a mentality that is indispensable. The ideal mix is a strong horse that is also fast and modern."
Emma has a preference for certain bloodlines, though she acknowledges that it’s always a balance. "My top horse was a descendant of Cardento, a bloodline I adore. But I’m also drawn to the Chacco-Blue line. Those horses often have the athletic ability of a thoroughbred combined with the strength and versatility of the older lines. Sometimes, certain bloodline combinations may not seem logical, but they end up being fantastic sport horses."
At the same time, she is honest about her own knowledge. "I’m still learning every day about the world of breeding. It’s fascinating how choices in bloodlines impact the sport. But I also know that it’s becoming less accessible for many people. The auctions and sky-high prices make the older lines often out of reach. That’s a huge loss because those lines are the backbone of our sport."
The American system and opportunities for riders
As a rider from the United States, Emma has unique insights into the differences between the American and European systems. "America is an incredibly competitive country in equestrian sports. There are so many great riders, and everyone wants to be on the team. But it’s tough to break through because there’s just so much talent. Thankfully, the 3* Nations Cups are now offering more opportunities for new combinations. Ultimately, it comes down to having the right horse at the right time with the right results. Politics plays a role, but that’s true everywhere. Results ultimately speak for themselves."
She compares this to Europe, where the structure for young riders is much better developed. "Here, there are programs like the Young Riders Academy and specific U25 competitions. In America, those opportunities are still limited. Fortunately, change is on the way, but more space needs to be created for young talent at the senior level."
Emma believes in a blend between both systems. "Europe offers a more natural and holistic approach. The opportunities here for young horses, the lower costs, and the accessibility of national competitions – these are things you don’t find in America. If you combine the strengths of both systems, you really get something special."
The connection between horse and rider
For Emma, it’s all about respecting the uniqueness of each horse. "As a rider, it’s our job to get the best out of a horse without losing its individuality. Every horse has its strengths and weaknesses, and we need to adapt to that. It’s beautiful to see how some riders can work with completely different types of horses and bring out the best in them."
She emphasizes that horses perform better when they feel accepted. "When a horse feels that you accept them as they are, you get so much more in return. Some horses need a lighter seat, others need more leg. It’s up to us to figure out what works. And that’s what makes this sport so special for me: every horse is a new adventure, a new opportunity to learn and grow."
In Europe, Emma feels at home because of the natural approach. "Here, it’s all about the well-being of the horse. They are outside as much as possible, we often ride in the woods, and we try to make the training as varied as possible. But I believe every horse benefits from freedom and a natural lifestyle. That builds not just a healthy body, but a strong mind."
Future plans and advice
With a mix of young horses, investment horses, and sport horses, Emma is working on building her own stable. "For me, it’s about quality over quantity. Every horse deserves the best care and attention. My goal is to find a top horse that I can keep, without the pressure of selling it. I love this sport and want to keep developing myself."
Emma closes with a message that perfectly sums up her own journey: "Never give up. I truly believe anything is possible, no matter where you come from or what resources you have. If you work hard, surround yourself with the right people, and always put the horse’s well-being first, you can achieve anything. People are often willing to help, sometimes more than you think. It can be scary to ask for help, but there are so many good people in this world."
Emma Marlowe's journey in equestrianism is an inspiring example of dedication, passion and a commitment to continuous improvement. Her combination of experience, respect for the welfare of horses and her ambition to make an impact both athletically and professionally promises to make a lasting contribution to equestrianism. With the support of her partners, Jenny Rankin and Barry O'Connor, Emma is determined not only to push the boundaries of the sport, but also to create a company that lays the foundations for a sustainable and successful future in equestrian sports. Her vision is clear: through hard work, collaboration and respecting the unique characteristics of each horse, great achievements can be achieved, both for the rider and the animals.
"I grew up with horses, actually from the moment I was born," Emma begins with a smile. Her mother had a riding school in California, and horses were an integral part of their family life. "We had horses in our backyard, and my mom trained me until I was fifteen. It never felt like a chore; she always gave me the choice. But for me, there was never a choice. I didn’t want to do anything else."
Emma started her riding journey with ponies and took part in local competitions at a small level. Although resources were limited, that didn’t stop her ambition. "We didn’t have the financial means to go to big competitions or buy expensive ponies. We worked with what we had, and I knew from a young age that I wanted to grow. So, I was always looking for opportunities to work my way up to a higher level."
At the age of fifteen, Emma decided to focus fully on equestrian sports. She switched to online schooling so she could spend more time with the horses. "I was at the barn every day," she says. "I took every opportunity I could, while finishing my school online. I knew from a very young age what I wanted to do, so that choice wasn’t difficult for me." Her mother, a major inspiration, fully supported her. "She loved horses as much as I did and always backed my decisions."
The real breakthrough came when Emma landed a working student position with Leslie Steele, a renowned trainer in the hunter-equitation discipline. "I was still very green at the time," she admits. "I was jumping up to 1.10 meters and had no experience on the A circuit. But Leslie believed in me. She took me to competitions and gave me opportunities that shaped my career. Without her, I never would have been able to make the transition to a higher level."
When she turned eighteen, Emma had to make an important decision: stay amateur or turn professional. "For me, it wasn’t a difficult decision," she says with determination. "I knew I wanted to do this my whole life. My heart was with showjumping, even though I didn’t have much experience with it at that time. I was determined to travel the world and learn from the best in the sport."
A crucial step in her development was participating in the George Morris Horse Mastership Clinic in Wellington, Florida, where she trained with icons like Laura Kraut and Beezie Madden. "That was a life-changing experience," Emma recalls. "Being surrounded by the people I had admired my whole life was incredible. It not only gave me new knowledge but also motivated me to keep going."
At eighteen, Emma moved to Trelawny Farms, where she stayed for seven years and learned everything about showjumping at a high level. "At Trelawny Farms, they taught me everything I know today," she says. "I started jumping at 1.30 meters and worked my way up to 1.40 meters, my first ranking class, my first Grand Prix, and even 5* competitions. It was an amazing learning process, but I had great horses and trainers around me."
Equally instrumental during this formative time was David Bustillos, a Californian trainer who remains a mentor and guiding influence to this day. Together, they nurtured her talent and instilled in her the values that continue to drive her success. In reflecting on her growth as a rider, Emma credits Paul O’Shea as well, as another key influence over the last three years during her time at Trelawny. “Paul has had a huge impact on my riding and my personal growth,” she shares. “He’s made me not only a better rider but also a better person.”
One of the most special horses in Emma's career was Cherokee, an experienced showjumper who took her to new heights. "Cherokee was incredible," she says with gleaming eyes. "He gave me the confidence to compete in classes where I had no business being. He always gave his all. The bond I had with him is what every rider searches for. With that connection, you can achieve anything."
But the path to success didn’t come without challenges. Emma had to make the transition from the American hunter and equitation systems, which focus more on smooth, technical rides, to the speed and precision of showjumping. "It was a big change," she explains. "I had to learn to ride with more rhythm, speed, and technical skill. But everything I learned in equitation has ultimately helped me in showjumping. For me, it’s the basis for correct riding. It teaches correct position and tools you need at the higher levels.”
Emma’s eagerness to learn and determination have brought her to where she is now. She has learned something from every trainer and applies that knowledge every day. "I see myself as an eternal student of the sport," she says. "I always want to keep learning, not just from showjumpers but also from disciplines like dressage and even cowboys. There’s always something new to discover about horses."
First time in Europe
"When I worked for Leslie, I made small trips to Europe to look at horses for the hunter and equitation disciplines. But my real introduction to the European competition circuit came when I worked at Trelawny Farms. Cara organized tournaments in Europe and I had the chance to go. I was lucky enough to compete in young horse classes and 1* events. The equestrian scene in Europe left me speechless. Everything was so different and so inspiring. I felt right at home. Everyone in Europe seems to have a deep passion for horses, and the sport is much more accessible. People have horses in their backyards or just start riding without it being a huge barrier. I’m incredibly grateful that I was exposed to all of that at a young age."
"We spent two summers in Europe. After that, we stopped coming, mainly because the Major League was established in the U.S. It made more sense to stay there rather than constantly ship the horses back and forth. Still, Europe stayed on my mind. The experience that young horses gain here is unparalleled. There was always something that kept pulling me back to Europe."
Where did you start?
"Recently, I had the opportunity to stay with Jos Lansink for three months. It was an incredible experience. I was also fortunate to work with Martin Fuchs and his team for a few weeks. It was hugely educational to see the systems of such top people up close. After my time with Jos Lansink, I knew I wanted to stay in Europe. While I’m still young, this is the place where I need to be to learn. Here, you have access to top training, great young horses, and competitions that are just a few hours away. I wanted to take the plunge and move. Now, I’m based here in Europe, although I’ll be in Florida during the winter months. My dream is to find a combination where I can merge both worlds—the sport in Europe and the business opportunities in America—that’s my ultimate goal."
"There are so many people in the U.S. who also want to come to Europe. I hope to make that gap a little smaller; that’s one of my ambitions."
Goals and ambitions
"My big dream, and I know it sounds cliché, is to make it to the Olympics and ride for the U.S., just like competing in the Senior Nations Cup teams. In the short term, I dream of riding for the U.S. in the 3* Nations Cups here in Europe. They’re a great stepping stone for younger riders. Thanks to the Major League, I’ve already gained some valuable experience. Long-term, I dream of competing in the World Cup finals, championships, and of course, the Olympics."
"Jenny already has a lot of experience with these kinds of goals, and Barry knows exactly how to navigate that path. He understands the process and has the knowledge needed to get there. This combination is incredibly valuable. We want to keep doing this work for as long as we can."
"What I love about this sport is that there are no real time or age limits. Some of the best riders are in their fifties and still active. You never know when you’ll meet that one horse that changes your life."
Partnership with Jenny and Barry – Trinity Partners
In an exciting new venture, Emma has teamed up with top Irish rider Jenny Rankin and renowned trainer and horse dealer Barry O'Connor. Together, under the name of Trinity Partners, they aim to create a unique powerhouse in showjumping, combining their collective experience and knowledge from both the American and European systems. This ambitious project has the potential to shape equestrian sports in a new, innovative way, blending their passion for horses with a deep respect for the traditions of the sport.
Emma Marlowe is clearly enthusiastic about her new partnership. "We all share the same values when it comes to the horses," she says with conviction. "The philosophy of horse welfare and love for them is at the core of everything we do. Without this dedication, we can’t achieve success." It’s this shared vision, along with their diverse backgrounds, that enables them to form a team that is not only competitive but also authentic and valuable to the sport.
What makes this partnership so special is the diversity of experience the team brings. Jenny Rankin, with her extensive experience in European showjumping, is one of the few riders to have proven herself at both national and international levels, having reached the 5* level. Barry O'Connor, on the other hand, is an expert in training riders and finding the right horse for the right person, with countless success stories to his name. Emma herself, having experienced both the American and European systems, brings a unique blend of experience and knowledge to the table.
"The beauty of it is that we all have different strengths," Marlowe explains. "Jenny and I focus primarily on the daily training of the horses and competing. Barry brings his immense experience and wisdom in rider education and finding horses to the team. It’s a symbiotic process, where we strengthen and complement each other. We work together as a team, and that’s what makes it special."
The goal of the partnership is clear: they want to elevate the sport while building a solid business that develops high-quality horses and supports riders at all levels. "The sport and the business side need to go hand in hand," Marlowe says. "I love training, but I also know it’s essential to have a strong business foundation. We want to help develop both clients and sport horses, invest in young horses, and also sell horses that excel in the sport."
Marlowe’s ambitions extend beyond just her personal achievements. “I’ve always been a rider, but I’ve also wanted to be part of something bigger, something that has a lasting impact on the sport. I feel that I’ve now found the right people to make that happen,” she explains. The collaboration between the three is not just focused on the successes of today but also on creating a long-term vision for the future of equestrian sports.
The setup of the project is to create an international network where both riders and horses at all levels have the chance to develop. The team aims to be active in both Europe and the United States. "We want to create a system that is accessible to everyone," Marlowe explains. "From young riders to adult amateurs, from young horses to horses ready for the highest level. We want to create an environment where everyone feels welcome, regardless of their experience or ambition."
What also sets this partnership apart is their logistical approach. The team has decided to establish their base primarily in Europe, but their presence in the United States will allow them to support horses during the winter months. "It’s important to be flexible and adapt to what the situation requires. We want to have the ability to be wherever our clients or horses need us," says Marlowe. This international aspect gives the project a dynamic and agile character, which is essential in the fast-changing world of equestrian sports.
"Emma has been a fantastic addition to the stable, growing up in the hunter and equitation divisions in the states Emma offers knowledge from different training programs that is beneficial for both horses and students."
"Having someone with an entirely different introduction to the sport is interesting for me to work along side and having Emma share the same end goals in the sport makes the journey more enjoyable."
"I am excited about what we can accomplish in the future." - Jenny Rankin
The focus is not just on developing horses and riders but also on preserving the passion for the sport. "The most important thing for us is to create lasting success, both for the horses and the riders. Whether it’s a child riding in their first Grand Prix or an adult discovering their passion for the sport, that’s what we’re here for. It’s incredibly motivating to see how everyone grows and achieves success," Marlowe says. This personal approach, where the success of each individual is celebrated, is at the core of their philosophy.
Ultimately, the goal of this partnership is to make an impact that goes beyond immediate success. "We want to build a business that stands the test of time," says Marlowe. "We want to develop horses that can reach the highest level, but we also want to create a system that ensures horses can remain in the sport for a long time. That takes hard work, dedication, and a solid base of clients we can continue to support over the years."
The trio is clearly determined not only to excel in competition but also to build a business that lays the foundations for a long-lasting and successful future in equestrian sports. It’s an adventure that holds great promise both in sport and business, with a team committed to combining the best of both Europe and America in their pursuit of excellence.
"I knew Emma for a few years already from meeting her on the American circuit. Since she joined us in Holland it has been a pleasure to work with her on a personal and professional level."
"She has great horsemanship and people skills which are a necessity in providing a good service for our investors and training clients." - Barry O’Connor
Other interests in the sport
Emma has always had a deep interest in breeding horses. "In Europe, breeding is such a big part of the sport, and I find it fascinating," she shares. "However, I realize I only understand a fraction of it. I love seeing the different qualities and characteristics in horses. Hopefully, in the future, we can use sport mares that retire as broodmares." Jenny, who has extensive experience in Ireland with raising foals and training horses from saddle breaking to top-level competition, is a person Emma hopes to learn more from in the future.
Emma Marlowe radiates passion when she speaks about horses. Her love for the profession and the animals is palpable. For her, the bond with a horse doesn’t begin with the saddle or training, but with the animal's soul. "The first thing I look at in a horse is its eyes," she says with a smile. "You can tell so much from a horse’s gaze – their character, their heart. It's not always the most talented horses that go the furthest. Often, it’s the horses with character, the ones who really want to do it, that achieve the greatest success." She adds that while athleticism and technical abilities are important, they don’t always make the difference. "True champions are often the horses who exceed expectations, the underdogs who go against the grain. That willpower is something you can’t train; it’s in the horse."
The role of bloodlines
The evolution of the sport has significantly changed the requirements for horses, particularly in breeding. "The sport is becoming faster and more technical," Emma explains. "You need a more modern, ‘bloodier’ type of horse that’s agile and light, but at the same time, the older bloodlines remain essential. They provide strength, endurance, and a mentality that is indispensable. The ideal mix is a strong horse that is also fast and modern."
Emma has a preference for certain bloodlines, though she acknowledges that it’s always a balance. "My top horse was a descendant of Cardento, a bloodline I adore. But I’m also drawn to the Chacco-Blue line. Those horses often have the athletic ability of a thoroughbred combined with the strength and versatility of the older lines. Sometimes, certain bloodline combinations may not seem logical, but they end up being fantastic sport horses."
At the same time, she is honest about her own knowledge. "I’m still learning every day about the world of breeding. It’s fascinating how choices in bloodlines impact the sport. But I also know that it’s becoming less accessible for many people. The auctions and sky-high prices make the older lines often out of reach. That’s a huge loss because those lines are the backbone of our sport."
The American system and opportunities for riders
As a rider from the United States, Emma has unique insights into the differences between the American and European systems. "America is an incredibly competitive country in equestrian sports. There are so many great riders, and everyone wants to be on the team. But it’s tough to break through because there’s just so much talent. Thankfully, the 3* Nations Cups are now offering more opportunities for new combinations. Ultimately, it comes down to having the right horse at the right time with the right results. Politics plays a role, but that’s true everywhere. Results ultimately speak for themselves."
She compares this to Europe, where the structure for young riders is much better developed. "Here, there are programs like the Young Riders Academy and specific U25 competitions. In America, those opportunities are still limited. Fortunately, change is on the way, but more space needs to be created for young talent at the senior level."
Emma believes in a blend between both systems. "Europe offers a more natural and holistic approach. The opportunities here for young horses, the lower costs, and the accessibility of national competitions – these are things you don’t find in America. If you combine the strengths of both systems, you really get something special."
The connection between horse and rider
For Emma, it’s all about respecting the uniqueness of each horse. "As a rider, it’s our job to get the best out of a horse without losing its individuality. Every horse has its strengths and weaknesses, and we need to adapt to that. It’s beautiful to see how some riders can work with completely different types of horses and bring out the best in them."
She emphasizes that horses perform better when they feel accepted. "When a horse feels that you accept them as they are, you get so much more in return. Some horses need a lighter seat, others need more leg. It’s up to us to figure out what works. And that’s what makes this sport so special for me: every horse is a new adventure, a new opportunity to learn and grow."
In Europe, Emma feels at home because of the natural approach. "Here, it’s all about the well-being of the horse. They are outside as much as possible, we often ride in the woods, and we try to make the training as varied as possible. But I believe every horse benefits from freedom and a natural lifestyle. That builds not just a healthy body, but a strong mind."
Future plans and advice
With a mix of young horses, investment horses, and sport horses, Emma is working on building her own stable. "For me, it’s about quality over quantity. Every horse deserves the best care and attention. My goal is to find a top horse that I can keep, without the pressure of selling it. I love this sport and want to keep developing myself."
Emma closes with a message that perfectly sums up her own journey: "Never give up. I truly believe anything is possible, no matter where you come from or what resources you have. If you work hard, surround yourself with the right people, and always put the horse’s well-being first, you can achieve anything. People are often willing to help, sometimes more than you think. It can be scary to ask for help, but there are so many good people in this world."
Emma Marlowe's journey in equestrianism is an inspiring example of dedication, passion and a commitment to continuous improvement. Her combination of experience, respect for the welfare of horses and her ambition to make an impact both athletically and professionally promises to make a lasting contribution to equestrianism. With the support of her partners, Jenny Rankin and Barry O'Connor, Emma is determined not only to push the boundaries of the sport, but also to create a company that lays the foundations for a sustainable and successful future in equestrian sports. Her vision is clear: through hard work, collaboration and respecting the unique characteristics of each horse, great achievements can be achieved, both for the rider and the animals.