Parker Peacock is a junior rider known for her talent and success in the hunter, jumper, and equitation ring. With the guidance of highly renowned trainers Victoria Colvin and Ken and Emily Smith, Parker has ridden countless horses to winning titles at the biggest horse show venues in the United States. Parker joined Team Arion in January of 2024, and we could not be more excited and grateful that she trusted our team to be a part of her success.
Tell us about how you started riding. What made you fall in love with the sport?
I started riding when I was 4 and have loved it ever since. My mom grew up in the horses so it has always been a part of my life. The biggest thing that made me fall in love with the sport was having a unique experience with horses. I have been very blessed to have a great connection with the horses I have been able to ride.
Parker & Quite Cassini in the WIHS Jumper Phase at WEF. ©Sportfot
What is your most memorable moment in your riding career so far?
My most memorable moment was under the light in the WCHR Hunter Spectacular. I got to compete against top professionals and some of the top horses in the country.
What horse would you consider your “horse of a lifetime”?
My horse of a lifetime would have to be Acclaim “monkey”. I got partnered with this horse at the end of 2020 when we were both new to doing the junior hunters. He was just coming jumper ring, and I was moving off of ponies. It was a fantastic experience to learn and grow together at the top level of this sport. Monkey helped me earn top placing at Capital Challenge, Devon, Harrisburg, and WEF. Even though we had great results, I would say our bond and trust in each other is the reason he is my horse of a lifetime.
Parker & Acclaim earned 10th place in the 2024 Hunter Spectacular at the Winter Equestrian Festival. ©Sportfot
Who are some of the people that have had the most significant impact on your riding career?
I’ve been fortunate to have many amazing people help me on this journey. One would be Victoria Colvin because she has been my trainer for nine years. Not only have I learned a tremendous amount about riding and horsemanship. She has also mentored me and helped me learn to handle the pressure of riding at the top level of this sport. Another person who has had much input in my career would be Kristi Watson. She has helped every step of the way, from walk-trot to high junior jumpers. She is a great teacher, someone I can always trust to know what is best for me. I am very grateful to have an amazing team behind me that always strives for the best for my horses and me.
How do you prepare mentally for a big class?
The biggest thing for me is being able to have plenty of time to feel prepared. Some ways I do this are getting ring early, going over my plan multiple times, and trusting in the preparation my team and I have done to be ready for the class.
Parker & Surf’s Up in the 2024 WEF Equitation Challenge. ©Sportfot
Do you have any pre-show superstitions?
I don’t have any superstitions but a part of my routine every morning is drinking a Dr. Pepper before the show starts.
What are some of your short-term and long-term riding goals?
My short-term goals are top placing at equation finals this year, a successful WEF circuit, and top results in the junior jumpers. My long-term goals are riding in college and having a successful pro career.
Parker & VDL Cagaroin the Junior Jumpers at WEF. ©Sportfot
Tell us about a “must-have” Arion product you use daily at the barn.
A must-have Arion product I use daily is my customizable half pad. I can customize the fit for each of my horses perfectly.
What is your favorite Arion Sellier product that helps make your time in the ring even more enjoyable?
My Arion saddle helps make my time in the ring even more enjoyable. It allows for my horses and I to be comfortable, allowing us to perform at our best.
Rapid Fire Questions🔥
Favorite Netflix show to binge?
I have a lot of favorites but my favorite right now is Suits.
Go-to Starbucks order?
Venti Strawberry acai refresher with no berries and lemonade.
Favorite horse-show food?
My go-to food at a horse show is either chicken tenders or a chicken Caesar salad.