Canadian Reiner Lisa Coulter on her journey to the 2010 Games and those who have supported her along the way

Well we are literally just a few short days from WEG and a lot of emotions are stirring. WEG will be THE biggest accomplishment in my career. It also fulfills a lifelong dream of representing my country with the most elite equine athletes in the world. But this growing sense of accomplishment and pride lends itself to another realization. I see clearly that none of this would mean much without the loud cheers, tears, hugs, support, criticism and love from those who have mentored, believed in and raised me.

This spring two of the most important people in my life were diagnosed with cancer. It came as a shock and sent us all in a tail spin. Bob Thompson has been my backbone for many years. I have trained horses for Bob for a long time. He mentors me in business and most importantly he is my very best friend. He believed in me when I was still breaking colts and his support has never waivered. I owe so much to Bob’s dedication and ultimate belief in my ability. Bob is battling hard and will be victorious. He has taught me how to win in life and I dedicate my WEG rides to our victory. Bob told me I would be competing at WEG one day and he felt that long before I did.

My dad, Marv Carlson, was diagnosed the same time as Bob. Words will never express the adoration and love I have for my father. My dad is the reason I am fulfilling my dream of riding at WEG. He taught me determination, hard work, tenacity and absolute and ultimate belief in myself and my dreams. The spirit he instilled in me is the reason he too will be victorious in his battle. I also dedicate my rides at WEG to my dad and thank him with all my heart for always being by my side and giving his whole life to his family, especially my daughter Clancy.

No matter what happens at WEG my family and friends are already embracing the journey we have been on to get here and cherishing the seemingly simple fact that we are all here. I owe my life to these two men and a couple rides are a small, small gift. However, my hope is that they see the gleam in my eye and feel the spirit in my smile and know they are responsible.

I was going to talk about preparations and final steps to WEG which are so very important at this time but they seemed a bit trivial to what really is going on in my life. I wanted to take this opportunity to embrace all those who have loved and believed in me. They took a very small town girl and put her in Lexington, Kentucky at the World Equestrian Games! Victory is already ours and the rest will be history!