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My parents took me to a stable in Long Grove where I developed my love for horses. I dreamed of owning my own horse and after saving money from babysitting, working at the local farm stand and the generous loan from my father, my dream came true. I bought my first quarter horse from Mickey Sikula when I was 12 years old. Mickey was a horse trainer and rodeo rider who operated the Mass barn on McCullom Lake Rd in McHenry starting in 1983.
Bob and Audrey Maynard lived near our family and they became my mentors to the show world. Bob’s knowledge was exceptional and I learned a great deal. I showed at the Lake County fairgrounds which is where many of the Illinois approved shows were held. Showmanship and Halter were my favorite classes at that time.
My professional life led me to a career in the pharmaceutical industry where I have spent the last 50 years. My husband of 32 years passed away in 2021 and the beginning of 2022 brought about my decision to retire. I have continued to have the passion for the horses and reached out to ILQHA to find my way back. I hope to get back involved and reconnect with the horse family. I am staying busy serving as a volunteer at the hospital and working retail. In my spare time, I enjoy crocheting. I am looking forward to attending some of the Illinois shows and getting back in the saddle.
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