Five Questions with Assistant Trainer Robyn Musicant

Robyn leading Jack Helfgott on Keepsake at Old Salem Spring 2005

SEL Photography

When did you become interested in horses? 

My Dad took me for a pony ride.  My brother and I rode two mares who looked like twins, and their names were Laverne & Shirley.  I remember that day vividly!  

Tell us about someone who inspires you?

I could ponder this question all day long (happily), and not be able to name just one person. Integrity is something I value deeply.  So anyone who can be successful in life without compromising their integrity is truly inspiring to me. 

Certainly, my parents set that standard, and I am so grateful for that foundational mindset. If I had to narrow it down to a short list, I would include Reba McIntire, Condoleezza Rice, Dominique Moceanu, Simon Wiesenthal, and Sandra Bullock. 

What do you love about teaching children how to ride?

One of the greatest joys of my life has been to help kids build self-confidence, a sense of accomplishment, compassion and respect for animals, and ideally, a lifelong love of horses.  

I particularly enjoy teaching kids because they have a sponge-like ability to learn, grow, and adapt as a rider, and just enjoy those beautiful moments of success, fun, and new experiences.

When you’re not at the barn, you’re typically at the another barn - tell us about your personal horses and how you like to spend time with them?

I have been beyond blessed to keep my horse, Strider, and his companion pony, Henry with wonderful friends, and their two horses, Brooklyn and California in their backyard barn in Bedford, NY.  I start every day feeding and taking care of these wonderful "boys." The horses are turned out 24/7, with an open barn and tons of space to roam.  We trail ride regularly on the BRLA, which is a magnificently maintained trail system.  How lucky am I?!

What’s something people might not know about you? 

I narrate and produce audiobooks.  So, on any given day, I'm either outside in the fresh air, with kids and horses, or locked in a 4ft x 4ft sound booth, reading a great book!

Shot By Sam