An Interview with Steve Wolgemuth
As we look back on the sport of dressage now in the year 2025, it’s impossible to ignore how dramatically it has changed over the last three decades. The evolution is visible in multiple aspects—from better quality horses, the growth of the sport worldwide, and the impact of social media, which has democratized influence and given everyone a voice.
Steve Wolgemuth is not only an accomplished USDF Bronze, Silver, and Gold Medalist rider and trainer, but also an expert importing agent, and entrepreneur. As the US Representative for Reesink Horses, Steve has matched riders with their Olympic partners, most notably, Laura Graves and Verdades. His insights into horse selection, training, and the sport of dressage has made him an influential figure in the equestrian world.
Quality Horses, Global Growth, and Social Media:
Steve emphasized that one of the most noticeable changes in dressage over the past 30 years is the improvement in horse quality. “Today, we see horses that are naturally uphill, expressive, and truly through”. Years of selective breeding have produced equine athletes that are nothing short of phenomenal. These horses, once considered “freaks of nature,” are now far more common, showcasing the strides made in breeding programs.
The growth of the sport on a global scale has also played a significant role in the development of dressage. As it has gained popularity, Steve has noticed more and more people worldwide investing in high-end, expensive horses.
Steve notes that the culture of our sport has also changed due to social media. Today, anyone can post opinions and be heard by thousands of online viewers across the equestrian community, regardless of their experience or qualifications. This level of influence used to be held only by truly qualified experts who were authors, high profile trainers, and popular clinicians.
The growth in social media has brought both positive and negative consequences. “People are more informed and have access to much more information. They are able to make more connections worldwide and have unprecedented knowledge of the world stage of dressage and sport horse bloodlines”.
“While people are more informed, it has also facilitated a notable increase in what some would label as narcissism”. Rather than building a professional platform by being excellent, some professionals are using a content strategy to achieve a fan-base. “I understand how this works to help the individual’s career, but I don’t think it helps our sport. Today, more than ever, professionals need to work together and help one another. Narcissists don’t make good team players”.
Navigating the Horse Import Process
For those unfamiliar with importing horses, the process is relatively straightforward but requires careful attention to detail. Whether you’re a rider or a horse owner, Steve stresses the importance in working with a reputable professional importer rather than buying from a private seller, like an amateur rider or small breeder.
It’s crucial to remember that horses are not commodities to be bought off a video. They are partners in the sport, and finding the right match takes time and effort. “You don’t look at pictures and pick your life partner; you get to know them”. You must try multiple horses in person, not just rely on online representations. “Trying horses teaches you a lot about yourself that you probably didn’t know”. Even the most expensive horse will prove to be a poor investment if it’s not a good fit for the rider.
Aspiring to Team USA
For young professionals with dreams of making it to Team USA, it is essential to be realistic about their journey. While talent plays a crucial role, having the right horses, mentors, and resources is equally important. Steve mentioned, “Talented trainers need to be more intentional about keeping as many good horses in their queue for their future. They shouldn’t put all their hopes on one prospect. That may mean buying young horses, partnering with investors, connecting with breeders, or being intentional (not just passive) about connecting with potential sponsors”.
Need for Standardization
The United States would greatly benefit from a standardized licensing system for trainers, modeled after programs like the Bereiter certification in Europe. Steve mentioned that one of the biggest challenges facing equine professionals today is labor—a problem he believes could be mitigated with a program requiring aspiring professionals to work under established trainers for an extended period. “Give them a structured system whereby working with a qualified instructor is one of the prerequisites for earning a credential”.
Seeking a fast-track to success, aspiring professionals often go out on their own and then struggle. Steve and many other interviewees have advised young professionals to spend more time as an assistant to continue to grow not only as a rider, but in one’s education of business planning and management before taking the leap.
Leaving a Legacy
Over the years, Steve has had the privilege of watching riders and judges rise to excellence, many of whom he had the honor of teaching or matching with their dream horses. While many of those became success stories, Steve hopes he is remembered for the care he had for people within the industry. “I realize that people will not remember my successes, but I hope they remember how important their success was to me”.
Like many dressage riders, Steve’s inner intensity shined through his work. However, “If I had to do it again, I would be even more intentional about helping the person as an individual and having dressage be the vehicle to do that”. In the end, Steve’s faith and eternal perspective has impacted how he has and continues to commit to helping others succeed.
