From Hairdresser To Olympic Competitor – American Rider Laura Graves Looks to Earn A Medal

Although this is the first Olympic Games for Laura Graves, she is aiming high and hoping to bring home a medal. She was a hairdresser and horse rider and enthusiast, until her and her horse Verdades made it big. The two of them finished fifth in the World Equestrian Games Grand Prix Freestyle and were also second at the Grand Prix National Championship.

Her love of horses started when her parents trader the family’s washer and dryer for two ponies. Competing was a long time dream of hers; however, her family did not have the funds to support it. Her first horse, Verdades, was not an easy horse to work with or ride!

Verdades was bought on a very modest budget and had very little training when she acquired him. She even had a major accident with him and broke her back, however, even that was not enough to stop her! They later rose above it all and qualified to compete in Rio this year!

Source:NBC Olympics.  Share this on Facebook if you’ll be cheering for Laura and Verdades!