Second careers
6/3/2026
As Caty Elgin rides her horse, Smokescreen, during a jumping competition, she leans in, guiding the horse over a fence. As the horse clears it and other obstacles in record time, Elgin wins another riding competition.
In addition to competing, Elgin teaches riding lessons and trains riders for competitions. She also retrains racehorses that have retired from racing, teaching them new roles outside the track. Most of the horses she owns are retired thoroughbred racehorses.
When searching for the ideal horse, she looks for animals that are disciplined, quiet and well-mannered.
“You can tell when a horse looks happy doing its job, such as jumping,” she explains.
She chose retired racehorses early in her training career.
“I fell in love with the breed ever since then,” she says. “It’s important to have them so they can have second careers and value after the racetrack. It helps so they don’t go to the kill pens.”
Currently, she teaches lessons to about 50 students, ranging from 5 to 70 years old. Some want to hone competition skills through dressage or jumping, while others simply enjoy riding horses.
“Most start lessons because of their interest in the animal,” she says. “They appreciate them.”
Elgin became interested in horses at age 13 and began competing in dressage and jumping. Dressage often is described as “horse ballet,” in which horse and rider perform precise movements. Horses are judged on their trotting and rhythm, as well as the rider’s technique.
In college, her riding team advanced to the national tournament. Elgin earned a degree in elementary education, which she has applied to teaching lessons. She established her own training service, CJE Training, 15 years ago.
She says the most difficult part of beginning lessons is helping riders overcome their fears.
“A lot of people are nervous. I try to teach them to be comfortable. Just because a horse is big, it doesn’t mean they will hurt you,” she reflects.
Currently, she attends two to three competitions each month. Most recently, she brought 12 students to compete.
She says, “We focus on Kentucky. There’s a lot of showcase competitions for young thoroughbreds.”
Elgin is at the horse barn at Hunters Glen Farms by 7 a.m. It takes most of the morning to clean and feed the horses, a labor of love.
“They all have different personalities that are unique. I enjoy figuring out the horse and what they need. Some are silly and playful, while others are stoic. One rescue horse was shut down when arriving here. After a while, they could express themselves and blossom,” she says. “To see their personality come out is rewarding.”
If people are interested in horses, she suggests taking a lesson or going on a ride.
“It’s a lot of fun,” she reflects. “Instructors want to see you succeed as a rider.” ♦
Jackie Wilson has written hundreds of articles for CITYVIEW and the Iowa Living magazines. She has covered many ordinary people living extraordinary lives.
