Margie Goldstein’s love of animals introduced her to the world of show jumping, even without her own horse. Gradually, she overcame her parents’ objections: safety, finances, time. To gain extra rides, she worked at the horse barn and in the pet kennels. Grateful horse owners gave her equipment, such as saddles, bridles, and boots, in exchange for her help. As a teenager, she taught younger children, broke in the most difficult ponies and horses, and drove a huge truck and trailer to horse shows.

Margie’s love of athletic challenges spurred her toward Grand Prix competition, but professionals discouraged her. “You’re too small,” they told her. “You’ll never control these large animals.” So she rode horses that most riders wouldn’t even consider. All too often, these efforts brought only broken bones.

She persisted. The laughter at her mounts—the “moose in horse skin” or “carousel pony”—gave way to setting show jumping records: American GrandPrix Association (AGA) Rider of the Year for an unprecedented six times; most Grand Prix wins (93) in U.S. rider history; all time money winner; and, finally, the Olympics!