Jennifer van den Bogerd

Owns Horse(s): Yes, one mare

Primary discipline of riding: It doesn’t matter the discipline, if there’s a horse, I love it. I rode jumper for many years and dreamt of competing at Spruce Meadows, but competition has taken a backseat for me as I work to strengthen my equitation and develop my understanding of equine “psychology.” One day I hope to test myself in an endurance race and would love to try my hand at polocross.

How often does she ride: As much as I can; 3+ times a week

Why she is a Kerrits Ambassador: I love the comfort and style of Kerrits clothing. I always tell my friends, "horsepeople make the best clothing," and Kerrits proves that. Kerrits clothes are stylish and shapely. Since the products come with a bag of carrot seeds, they has my horse’s stamp of approval too. I get the impression the individuals at Kerrits are real, genuine horse lovers, not just business people – that is something I’ll stand to promote.

Her Goals: I’m always training myself through books, videos, and by just getting out there and riding (horses have always been my best instructors). I try to beat what I did the week before. My most memorable show was when I nearly fell off and ruined my course in the first class but composed myself and cleared in the last class. That was years ago but I’ll never forget it. When I came over that last fence everyone started to applaud and my instructor shouted out, “VERY GOOD, JEN!” I still get goose-bumps thinking about it. It’s important to feel supported. Knowing that they weren’t watching and waiting for me to mess up but genuinely wanted to see me succeed made a huge impact on my confidence. I’m now a CHA English and Western certified instructor and while I may not be chasing Spruce Meadows I remember how people told me growing up that you have to have a rich horse family to make it to the Grand Prix level. I think Eric Lamaze proved that wrong. One day I hope to work with troubled teens and underprivileged kids, with rescue horses, showing them the power of the hope that comes from God and giving them their second chance. I want to be the person that hangs on to see them succeed and not wait for them to fail. My desire is to show kids that it’s not your situation that defines you but what you do with the situation you are given.

Her Kerrits Story: My first Kerrits top was the Kerrits ventilator shirt. I love how the shirt feels custom designed for me and how it keeps me cool and stick-free even after hours in the saddle. My second was a pair of all-season riding gloves with great ventilation and flexibility. I feel safe buying Kerrits and their products are starting to take over my closet. My next investment I hope to be the coach’s coat.