“Very few people, with the exception of a child’s parents, are able to witness a person growing from a five year old into a young adult. I have had the pleasure of working with Elodie Watrous every day for over a decade. I believe and hope my perspective can help others see who Elodie is at her core. As a young child, Elodie was tenacious, intelligent, and precocious beyond her years. As she has grown, she has channeled these qualities into fierce attributes. She approaches each day of her learning and care for her horses with a watchful eye, a well thought out plan, and compassion for her equine partners. Anyone who has experienced a sport at this level knows that the margin of difference it takes to be a true winner is a fraction of a percent, and Elodie brings that and more.
In my professional opinion, Elodie’s character manifests itself in her day-to-day riding across all three categories of our discipline (equitation, jumpers, and hunters). She rides all types of horses: quiet, cold, hot, good jumpers, and green horses. She rides and understands the differences between each category of our discipline, as well as the similarities. She works diligently to understand not only how to be a “show ring” rider, but also focuses equally on how to prepare and train her equestrian partners. She volunteers her time to keep my school horses trained and prepared, and does the same for some of the less experienced riders’ horses at the barn. Elodie also spends a lot of time observing, studying, and learning how to train, teach lessons, and work with vets and farriers. This education is crucial to understanding the animals, their needs, and how to care for them to be the best competition partners at the highest level.
While Elodie’s exceptional show record speaks for itself, I am most proud of her hard work at this level. I hope that anyone who reads this testimonial will recognize and understand how her qualities have played a role not only in her successes in the equestrian world, but also how they will extend into other environments and endeavors in Elodie’s life.”
~ Jodi Vazquez, Owner and Trainer, Messenger Hill Farm, Mettawa, IL/Wellington, FL
“Elodie Watrous is wise beyond her years. She displays more common sense and intellectual curiosity than most adults. She genuinely enjoys learning and inspires others to recognize the value of knowledge. Elodie is an exceptional student and equestrian because she is motivated and driven to succeed. But more importantly, she is an extraordinary human being; she is conscientious and shows genuine concern for the well-being of others. Elodie is open-minded and embraces diversity. Her propensity to encourage inclusivity makes her a positive influence on her peers, and society in general. Elodie exhibits confidence without demonstrating an inkling of arrogance. She is dedicated to maximizing her potential in all her endeavors. Her work ethic and sportsmanship will serve her well in college and beyond. Elodie will undoubtedly make a valuable contribution to any team she joins and any college community fortunate enough to have her.”
~ Maggie Alexander, Former Head of School – Score Academy Wellington
“I have enjoyed the privilege of being one of Elodie’s riding instructors for the past five years. During this time, I have seen Elodie prioritize and sacrifice for her personal goals in ways most people don’t have the dedication to execute.
My favorite thing about Elodie is her curious nature. She always has a follow-up question ready and genuinely enjoys creating scenarios where a new idea she has learned might be useful.
Ever the competitor, Elodie also has excellent sportsmanship. Even on the most challenging day (and there are plenty of hard days when your training schedule is that of a professional athlete), she is kind to staff, competitors, and horses.
Elodie’s drive and love of learning are an excellent addition to any team or community.”
~ Lindsey Oaks, Director of Riding School, Messenger Hill