1.) What are some of the highlights and successful moments in the 2015 show season for you?
“2015 began well with several champion and reserve championships for my amateur and youth riders at the Scottsdale show in February,” says Diane Underwood. “These included wins in Showmanship, Horsemanship, Side Saddle, Hunter Pleasure, Walk/Trot and Western Pleasure. We posted over 20 championships and reserves during Regional competition. The Flatiron Springs’ stall fronts looked pretty wonderful! Youth Nationals was a lot like Scottsdale but we added UPHA victories, always welcome. Amateur rider Kristen Meyer had a special show at the U.S. Nationals bringing home multiple Top Ten awards and an outstanding Reserve National Championship ride in HA Side Saddle Amateur English.”
2.) Who has been your biggest influence in the Arabian breed in getting you to where you are today?
“There are so many people who have worked with me and been supportive over the years,” Diane notes. “I give my clients a lot of credit. They are good people, loyal, enthusiastic and forward thinking. I have been very blessed in my relationships and my mentors. I thank heaven for them and for great horses to work with every day.”
3.) If someone were to describe you, what would they say about you?
“My coach Diane Underwood is probably the most selfless, hardworking person I know,” says Mindy Hagen. “She is so patient with everyone and when she is not, it’s always because she sees our potential and pushes us to achieve it. She sees more in me than I see in myself. There is nobody more thoughtful or persistent!”
“Diane Underwood has been a friend and colleague in my life since my 20’s,” says Christy Egan. “I appreciate her as a horsewoman, a talented trainer and a really great coach. We all love her … I think only the horses love her more.”
4.) Name one show ring quirk you have:
“I am something of a Type A personality,” says Diane. “I work very hard to achieve. My clients and I have national awards in Country English, Show Hack, Showmanship, Horsemanship, Saddle Seat Equitation, Walk/Trot, Western Pleasure, Hunter Pleasure and Costume. We do a lot of kidding and try to have fun with each other. In our business a good sense of humor can really help.”