By: Taylor Thompson
In an era seemingly clad in an armor of transformation, the equine scene reverberates with an innovative charge—thanks to Miguel and Chancey Wilson, champions fashioning new fields in equestrian sports for underprivileged youths. Putting the reins of opportunity into young hands, the Wilson duo is leveraging the Ride to the Olympics (RTO) Foundation to address representation issues head-on.
In 2017, Miguel Wilson channeled his personal experiences and accomplishments into a mission larger than himself – a nonprofit mandate dedicated to empowering the youth through the equestrian domain. Having been taught how markedly horse-related sports can mold character and underscore life’s triumphs, he assiduously shared this equine magic with the younger generations.
To Miguel Wilson, the founder of RTO, equestrian sports illuminated the path to his personal feats. Now, he discerns the invaluable responsibility of extending the same opportunities to young individuals who echo his early trials.
Recalling the influence of horse-related sports in his life, Miguel fondly reminisces, “Equestrian sports carved my character, mirrored my valor, and reflected my trials on life’s course. The Ride to the Olympics Foundation encapsulates this magic that equestrian sports unbridled in my journey, and it’s our commitment to let this magic off the leash for our youth.”
The Foundation’s Board of Directors, steered by the robust vision of Miguel and the Executive Director, Chancey Timmons Wilson’s strategic execution, invests in equipping these fledgling talents with the prerequisites for success in life. The team is diligently weaving a trajectory that champions exposure and appreciation of equestrian sports across the United States, including Polo, Show Jumping, and Dressage.
According to Executive Director Chancey Timmons Wilson, the mission is clear-cut and inherently transformative. She asserts fervently, “Our objective transcends the simple mechanics of horse riding. We are raising champions for life through exposure to responsibilities, discipline, dignity of labor, emotional intelligence, confidence, and decision-making that equestrian sports naturally foster.”
Operating primarily from their bases in Georgia and Maryland, RTO’s teams nurture a future where underrepresented but hopeful Equestrians sturdily gallop toward their dream, unhindered by barriers. While the Foundation provides the horsepower, the gauntlet is passionately taken forward on the ground by Miguel and Chancey, striding toward fulfilling their shared vision for a diverse and inclusive equine landscape.
With dedication as their spur, RTO has carved out spaces for the new contingent of equestrian enthusiasts to connect and learn. The creation of this safe harbor within equestrian sports is a trailblazing movement conducive to the growth, development, and self-realization of America’s disadvantaged youth. The proclaimed natural elegance of riding horses, therefore, offers a platform for these youngsters to embrace and present their newfound grace and style.
RTO resonates strongly on social media platforms, promoting opportunities, celebrating the achievements of younger equestrians, and reinforcing the objectives of the foundation. Be it Instagram; where @chanceytimmonswilson, @miguelwilsoncollection, @ridetotheolympics showcase various narratives from the heart of equestrian sports, or through their official website www.ridetotheolympics.org; the heartbeat of RTO imprints a deliberate tone of inclusion and potential in the equestrian universe.
In essence, the Ride to the Olympics Foundation is a powerful testament to the resilience and ambition nestled within the human spirit. By paving unprecedented roads and creating novel narratives, Miguel and Chancey Wilson continue their vigorous stride into democratizing equestrian sports, one young human and horsepower at a time. As they press forward, it becomes more lucid that their drive and commitment to this unique venture have been the primary catalyst to embellish the world of equestrian sports with new, vibrant shades of potential, perseverance, and passion.
Published by: Martin De Juan
