About Donna Cheek

I am the youngest of 5 and the only daughter. From my earliest memory, I have been fascinated with horses. I was just a little girl who collected plastic model horses and arranged them carefully on my bedroom shelves. It was unexpected, and my destiny, because no one in my family rode or shared this interest—horses captivated me from the very beginning, a passion that seemed to come from nowhere but God. That deep love for horses not only shaped my daydreams but became a constant source of pleasure and excitement, a passion that has stayed with me to this day.

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I started taking riding lessons at seven years old, and at the tender age of eleven, my father spoke to me about the difference between being average and being the best. He told me, “You can’t take a day off because that might be the day when your competitor is really digging in.” What he said had an immediate impact on my already dedicated work ethic, and I vowed to push even harder. By eleven years old I was competing in the top levels of the Hunter Division at competitions all across California, Arizona, and Nevada.

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Growing up, I quickly learned that determination and perseverance could sometimes bridge the gap between resources and ambition. As a young rider, I spent countless hours in the barn, grooming, training, and forming a special bond with my horse. These experiences taught me not only the technical skills of riding but also the value of the silent communication that leads to a harmonious relationship with my equine partner.

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I learned early on that reaching the top requires more than passion and hard work—it requires access to an exceptional horse. Yet, my family’s limited financial means meant that owning a top-tier horse was not an option. While my competitors had access to horses that were the equivalent of Ferraris, I was riding what felt like a dependable Volkswagen. This reality presented a unique set of challenges, but it also motivated me to develop skills that would allow me to compete on a more level playing field.

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Determined to make the most of my circumstances, I focused on honing my riding techniques, building a strong physical body in the gym, and without knowing precisely what it was called, I developed mental toughness while maximizing every opportunity to improve. I dedicated countless hours to training, learning how to bring out the very best in my horses, regardless of their pedigree. Through perseverance and adaptability, I discovered that skill, determination, and a deep connection with my horse could sometimes make up for what I lacked in resources. These lessons became invaluable and shaped my approach to every aspect of my life.