Hey there! My name is Emma Milford and I’m so glad you’re here!
I have 20+ years of experience in hunt seat equitation, with competition experience in IEA and IHSA. I had my first taste of teaching horseback riding during my summers at Pony Farm in Temple, NH, and, instantly, I was hooked. I’ve been a Massachusetts Licensed Riding Instructor for five years now, most recently teaching at an equestrian program in central Mass. In addition to teaching, I am a Certified MagnaWave Practitioner with Grey Mare MagnaWave, serving all of Massachusetts and select surrounding areas. And because that’s simply not enough for an over-achieving horse gal, I also do professional pony riding and am working on becoming certified in Kinesiology Taping. Always learning!
Growing up in Natick, MA, I spent much of my free time riding at barns in Wellesley and Sherborn, MA, and was exposed not only to the hunter/jumper world, but also to foxhunting, polo matches, trail riding, beach riding, and gymkhana games.
In 2017, I graduated from Washington University in St. Louis with a Bachelor’s degree in International Area Studies, and minors in Global Health and Children’s Studies. My interests are broad and diversified, but my heart is in the equine industry. While writing a thesis my senior year, I was also proudly serving as President of the Washington University Equestrian Team, working to both re-brand and revamp the team into a cohesive, competitive force. At the 2017 IHSA Nationals, I placed ninth for the Teresa L. McDonald Scholarship Challenge.
When I’m not teaching, I’m pampering Pilot, a retired 33 year old (spunky) chestnut Quarter Horse gelding. He is privately owned but his wonderful mom has continued to let me be a part of his life and help in his daily care. You’ll learn more about Pi in my posts, but in short, he’s my best friend. I’ve known him for 15 years and, through our many adventures, I’ve experienced the pure joy that comes from building a relationship with one horse. He’s a special guy and has given me limitless opportunities in life.
In all the spare time that’s left in my week, you can find me baking in the kitchen or practicing Pilates or yoga on my mat. All depends on whether I’m in a “nom” mood or a “namaste” mood.
My journey as a professional in the horse world is just beginning, but I’m excited to share my thoughts thus far. I hope you’ll find the information useful and perhaps I can give you a little more courage to pursue your goals and your dreams.