Non-Pro Freestyle Champ 2011 Ann Reusser & Echo

Congratulations Ann and Echo! Ann set the goal a few years ago to win at the Congress and she has been working hard to get to this point. This video was taken at the All American Quarter Horse Congress 2011 Non Pro Freestyle. In case you are wondering, the freestyle class at the Congress is divided into two groups, Pro (people who’s profession is horse training) and Non-Pro (I bet you can guess-they don’t make their living training horses).

Ann was actually my roommate in college! After college she trained horses but was injured a few years out of school when a stumbled and fell. She had multiple back surgeries and was told that she shouldn’t ride anymore. I remember the first few years after the accident when she would drive back from North Carolina to visit during the Congress. What I remember is that although she was in her 20’s, when she tried to stand up after sitting, she struggled like you might see an 80 or 90 year old person who was very stiff.

To say that the road has been long and that Ann has worked hard would not do her justice. I loved her music this year. Echo truly does have a ‘Heart of Gold’ and her feeling that ‘tonight’s gonna be a good, good night’ really did come true. Congratulations again Ann and Echo!

8 Comments

  1. Nikki on November 14, 2011 at 3:50 pm

    OMG… Just watched it and it made me cry.
    Congratz to Ann, what a powerful show!!!!

    This video showed me all of my fears…. and my dream!

  2. Amanda Accordino on October 22, 2011 at 5:21 pm

    this is SO AWESOME! what an accomplishment especially after such an injury. holy cow

  3. Jennifer J. Martin (Gran Jen) on October 21, 2011 at 2:26 pm

    Great ride, Ann! I can see the joy on your face, and Echo looks like a sweetheart.

  4. Charlott on October 21, 2011 at 11:49 am

    Absolutely beautiful performance – wish I could have seen in person! Beautiful girl – amazing and beautiful animal. Truly hearts of gold for both and hearts as big as the sky….

  5. Alice on October 21, 2011 at 10:57 am

    Congratulations to student & teacher. What a gorgeous tail Echo has!!

  6. lacee on October 21, 2011 at 9:10 am

    that is a great story and a great ride an great friends! Great job ANN! You had me tearing up at 6:00 in the morning watching this! 🙂

  7. Lori on October 21, 2011 at 7:07 am

    Thanks for sharing this video. Very inspiring! Her joy is so evident. Congratulations to Ann and Echo.

  8. Lindsay on October 21, 2011 at 6:35 am

    It was truly a great night !! So happy for Ann & Echo. It was definately a treat to see Ann reach one of her goals.

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