AQHA Professional Horseman, Carrie Becker Lynch was raised with horses. She began riding at a young age. Carrie has experience in Western Pleasure, Horsemanship, Hunt Seat, Equitation, Halter, Showmanship, Jumping, Dressage, Team Penning, Reining, Trail, and Barrel Racing. She attended Black Hawk College where she was an accomplished horse show judge. A few of her accomplishments are a 5th individual overall at The All American Quarter Horse Congress, 3rd individual overall at the AQHA World Show, and 1st individual overall at the Middle Tennessee State University Walking Horse Judging Contest. She interned at Richland Ranch for John Boxell, a top Quarter Horse Trainer. Carrie earned associate degrees in Horse Science Technology and Equestrian Science before attending Illinois State University where she obtained her B.S. in Agriculture Industry Management – Animal Science. Carrie enjoys riding, showing, training, and teaching. Over the past couple of years Carrie has enjoyed showing reining horses. Both AQHA and NRHA have been valuable associations. Carrie has received many year end awards. In October 2014 Carrie was Reserve Champion in the Limited Open Reining at The All American Quarter Horse Congress. Her daughter Shelby, was awarded with three Congress Championship wins. Shelby was also Reserve Champion in Short Stirrup at the NRHA Affiliate Championship in Oklahoma City, December 2014. Watching her students’ and horses’ progress is awesome and extremely rewarding! She competes in AQHA and NRHA events. She has been blessed to ride with master horsemen such as Martin Black, Buck Brannaman, Tim Boyer, Mark Lyon, Paul Dietz, and many more inspirational people.
Carrie and her husband Todd both grew up in rural McLean county. They both have a great love for their community. They have two children, Shelby and Carter. Most often you will find Carrie in the barn, Todd working on heavy equipment, Shelby riding Skittles, ET, and Whiz and Carter playing basketball and baseball when he isn't being a great horse show brother. They enjoy spending time with family and friends. They attend Covell Community Church.
A note from Carrie:
For as long as I can remember my dream has been to work with horses. My passion for horses is as strong today as it was when I was a child. I am thankful for that! I count each horse and rider that I come in contact with as a blessing. I am proud of what I do! I am thankful that God has allowed horses to be a part of my journey through life.
Horsemanship is a way of life for me. I relate my experiences with horses to everything in my life. It is who I am. As a horseman all I want is for the horses I work with to trust me and take direction from me. I want them to believe in me. God wants me to do the same with Him. Things aren't always easy or perfect, but God is always there for me. When my horses aren't where I want them to be, I am still there for them. Seeing things with this mentality has taught me patience, love, consistency, compassion, discipline, obedience, and persistence.
My journey is a blessing and I can't wait to see where I am headed next!
Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
