Kenzie and Gus: The Perfect Duo

Did you know that the average lifetime cost for a horse is $300,000 to $900,000? The hard work that people all over the world dedicate to their horses often goes unnoticed. There are people even at this school that spend hours providing for their horse. 

“Horses can teach you a lot, and I am grateful for what growing up around horses has provided for me. Gus (her current horse) has taught me more than his weight in gold,” says Kenzie Laps, a junior at the Medina County Career Center. 

Kenzie has been working extremely hard for years to continue her journey with horseback riding. The work is never over, but it is very rewarding. 

 In this conversation, she gives us a timeline of her equestrian story so far. The following has been edited and condensed for clarity.

When did you start riding horses, and what sparked your passion for horses? 

I started riding horses around eight years old. My love for horses began at a friend's birthday party. Surprisingly before the party, I had a complete fear of horses. At the party, I got on a horse, and immediately thought it was enjoyable and something I wanted to do. About three months later, I had my very first lesson. 

Do you ever wish you chose a different sport, or interest? 

Honestly, no. Sometimes I wish I stuck with softball, but horseback riding has taught me so much. It has taught me to work hard for what I want even when it is challenging. Everyone says, “once you fall off, you’ve got to get back on.” You can use that idea of perseverance in every aspect of life, not just horseback riding. Growing up around horses has also given me a lot of confidence because managing a thousand pound animal is not easy. 

What has been your biggest goal growing up around horses? 

My biggest goal about five years in was to start looking at getting my own horse. I wanted a project horse or a horse who had little formal training. I have worked very hard to discipline my current horse how I desire, and it is a very rewarding process. 

How many hours a week do you work to pay for Gus’s expenses? 

During the school year, I work roughly thirty hours a week. I spend 3-4 days a week babysitting, and pet sitting after school. On weekends I work at the goat barn nearby, and occasionally put in hours at the horse barn. It's a lot to manage, but well worth it.

What do those expenses include? 

My monthly expenses include his stall, his grain, hay, and water. It also includes basic maintenance and care. I am grateful the barn owners take the time to care for him because I don’t have the time when working and going to school full time. I still always try my hardest to spend time with him anytime I am available. 

How do you handle the stress of owning a horse while still maintaining a balanced life? 

Gus is the biggest stress in my life currently, but it helps to focus on one day at a time. In the grand scheme of things, I am just a kid who is paying for her horse. I am grateful for what I have, and remembering that gets me through each monthly payment. 

Do you have any horse-related regrets?

When I bought Gus, I just bought him because he was cheaper than lots of other horses. Part of me wishes that I would have worked for another year, and been a little less eager about getting my own horse. I could have saved a little more money, and gotten a more expensive horse. However, I am very grateful for Gus and I am proud of what we have accomplished together. 

What is one thing you would like people to know about equestrian life? 

We are not all really weird horse girls, and a lot of us are just always stressed about paying bills and working. Horses really are great. Just take care of the animal, and they will take care of you. I am super grateful for everyone that has helped me on this journey, and I love Gus.