Francesca Sternberg has been awarded one of the British Equestrian Federation's highest honours, the Medal of Honour. The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) congratulates the long-time reining horse handler on her achievement. The award recognises Sternberg's passion for equestrian sport in the UK and her successes in the sport of reining.
“I never thought the British Equestrian Federation would recognise a Reiner,” said Sternberg. “In Britain we are very customary – it's all about eventing, show jumping and dressage. To be recognised by my peers in my own country is quite overwhelming.”
Sternberg originally competed in eventing and show jumping at the highest levels and first became a member of the NRHA in 1995. Since then, she has earned more than $418,500 in NRHA salary income and has been successful at the highest levels, competing in five FEI World Equestrian Games and attending numerous AQHA World Championship Shows, NRHA Futurity and the NRHA Derby in Oklahoma City.
“The reining horse has taken me to places I would never have otherwise been and allowed me to meet people I would never have otherwise met,” Sternberg confirmed. “Although the success in the arena is hugely significant, it's not really just about that. It's about the journey and the incredible experiences along the way.”
In view of the awarding of the Medal of Honor, Sternberg thanks her family, whom she found in the sport of reining, for her success.
“The heart of the NRHA is a combination of horse and community,” Sternberg continued. “I haven't found that in any other equestrian group. Anyone can be competitive or just enjoy the ride. It's a team effort.”
Sternberg's two children, Tabitha Sternberg Allen and George Sternberg Allen, share their mother's passion for rein riding.
“I see the future the same way I see the past, but the difference is I won't be in the saddle as much,” laughed Sternberg. “I've been beaten by my two kids in the last few months, and that was much better than anything I could win.”
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