Balancing relationships and horses is not an easy task for anyone. Not everyone is okay with being ditched for a 1,200lb animal that is scared of plastic bags. I have been lucky enough to have found a boyfriend that is incredibly supportive of me and my riding, but I know others haven’t been so lucky.
For some, their significant other (SO) is the hobbiest-horse-liker. This type of SO will come out to the barn with you, on their terms. A little too cold, a little too hot, too many flies, the list of excuses grows longer and longer over time. Do not get me wrong, they still will come out to hang out with you or do some simple tasks. 
While this seems okay to some, I challange you to put this type of SO to the ultimate test… a horse show. If you do try this, let me know how it goes by DMing me on my instagram @equestrian.syd!
Another type is the good sport type. This type of SO will do what they are asked or come to the barn if you want them to. Typically their tasks include taking videos or setting back up a fallen jump rail. Basic things like holding a horse, if they feel comfortable, is also in their job description. They earn the title of good sport because they do the tasks but don’t really have any interest in learning more. But don’t fret, significant others of this type have tons of potential to be really awesome barn boyfriends! Fun fact: my boyfriend started as a good sport type too.
Last but certainly not least, there is the all-in type. The person who gets up at an ungodly hour with you to go to the horse show. The person who supports your passion full heartedly because it is what makes you happy. If you stumble upon this type, keep them around, they are special! 
Even though they may not be able to make it everytime (remember, they have lives too) they support you no matter what. Whether it is shining your boots, walking courses with you, or giving some cookies to your pony while you are away.
I have been blessed with a pretty darn good barn boyfriend. He never misses an oppurtunity to grow his knowlage about horses or the sport by asking questions. My horse is also Drew’s #2 fan (behind me of course). Maybe it’s because he is known as “Drew The Treat Man” but it’s also because he takes time out of his day to spend time with me and her. His support of my riding makes me even more grateful for the oppurtunities that I get to spend time with them together. Drew is a competitive lacrosse player as well has having other hobbies like mountain biking and running. While I can’t really run and would probably hit a tree if I tried to mountain bike, I still make sure he is safe and always having fun. Because he supports me and my passion, I support him in his. This basic principle helps making the balance of sport & relationship much smoother and happier.
Although it may seem as though I wrote this article just to brag, that is not my intention. My intention is to show that having a relationship and being passionate about horses is not impossible. Our 1200lb, money-eaters should not drive people away, if they are scared to love a person that is strong and passionate about something, keep on searching. It took me a couple tries too 😉
I hope y’all enjoyed this post over barn boyfriends! I hope y’all enjoyed and if you have any questions feel free to DM me on instagram @equestrian.syd!
Until Next Time Preps,
Sydney & The Ponies
p.s. HUGE shout out to Drew for being such a team player and posing for these photos without a single complaint. I know I can be a little bit bossy to get the shot I have in my mind so putting up with me can be hard. Much love xoxo
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