With a lifelong love of horses, Dr. Constance Schmidt has been attending the National Western Stock Show since she was very young.
“I began riding horses when I was about eight years old, and my mom would take me to the Stock Show regularly,” she says.
Now, when she isn’t leading her team of caregivers as CEO of Centura St. Anthony North Hospital in Westminster, Dr. Schmidt often spends time with her horse, Casino, while looking forward to the next NWSS.
“My daughter and I compete in Hunter Jumping,” she says. “Haley competed in January 2022 with both her horse and mine. It’s both a barn family and bio-family event. We love it!”
Although Dr. Schmidt grew up as a Western rider, she transitioned to English riding about eight years ago and is proud that NWSS has embraced that discipline as well, putting on various fun activities and educational events.
“Every year, busloads of kids are brought through our barns at NWSS. Many have the same excitement in their eyes that I did four decades ago,” she says. “I feel like we are planting the seed for our future riders.”
The Stock Show is a tradition she appreciates for its historic roots and wide appeal.
“I think NWSS helps keep Colorado centered in the agricultural industry it was founded upon. It doesn’t matter if you ride Western or English, show livestock, participate in a rodeo, or just enjoy being a spectator; NWSS provides a venue for fun for all.”
