"Sportsmanship, Social media and DIY, Oh My!" with Ali Hubbell aka @kanterkulture
We all talk about it and how important it is, we congratulate each other, but are we truly being good sportsmen and stewards of the equine industry? Is it the hug between champion and reserve champion, helping someone out at a show, or is it the small acts of kindness you think no one notices you do? Sportsmanship can be defined in many different ways across all disciplines and it has changed it a lot of ways today. Especially in the world we live in now of comments on TikTok or other social media platforms.
Making each other feel welcomed as first time exhibitors and not intimidated because they feel that don't have the right horse, custom show shirt or top trainer. Sportsmanship is making people feel like confident enough in themselves and their riding to move up to the next level in their showing and encouraging them to go for it.
Someone who has shared many thoughts on this important topic and is passionate about
sharing positivity and fun that is found within the equine industry. Ali Hubbell is an equine photographer, but also the voice and creator behind Kanterkulture. In this episode, we talk about all that I mentioned above and so much more when it comes to showing and bringing true sportsmanship back to the industry.
Another aspect of sportsmanship that we discuss is accepti
ng awards and the importance of being gracious and respectful no matter what place or color of ribbon we receive because you never know who is watching your actions. As well as understanding that the horse always comes first, so it's important to thank them for every ride they give us with a pat on the neck or rear.
We also talk about her journey as a do it yourself amateur and the most rewarding and challenging parts about it. Whether it's managing her time well to make sure she is getting her
horses worked, growing a stronger connection with her horse and being able to never stop learning and growing as a horsewoman. I also think that apart of sportsmanship as DIY amateurs is helping each other out to build a better community at horse shows and in the industry.
Sportsmanship is not only patting our horse or congratulating the winner, but also about doing things that will create real change in the industry as well from holding trainers and others accountable for their toxic behaviors and creating more inclusive experiences at horse shows. It is important to recognize those who are sharing true sportsmanship when we can and not look at sportsmanship awards as a popularity contest.
I had so much fun talking with Ali in this episode and I loved hearing her insights on this important topic and I hope it inspires your own conversations with your peers on this topic as well.
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