Chelsea James

Chelsea James grew up in Southern California. She began riding at the age of four, and began competing when she was twelve. Throughout her junior years, she did everything she could to get more riding time. She groomed at shows and worked summer camps to pay for showing and to lease a suitable horse for finals.

In 2005, she placed in the top 10 at the local Junior Finals. In 2006, Chelsea and her pony were West Coast Pony Finals Large and Grand Champion; as well as LAHJA Pony Medal Reserve Champion. During her junior years, she spent all her time at the barn and shows and catch rode numerous ponies and junior hunters for prominent trainers on the West Coast. Chelsea rode in the Emerging Athletes Program its inaugural year. EAP takes the top percentage of riders from the clinics all around the country to participate in regionals. Chelsea was chosen to ride at regionals. Throughout her riding career, Chelsea has ridden with many top professionals including; Melanie Taylor Smith, Suzie Hutchinson, Bernie Traurig, and George Morris.

After her junior years, Chelsea became a professional. Over the last ten years, she has worked at prominent show barns on the West Coast and has experience teaching novice riders through the Big Eq. She also has experience showing young hunters through 1.30m jumpers. (Source)