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Horse Podcast



Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 32, hosts Susan Friedland and Horse Illustrated Editor In Chief Holly Caccamise chat with David O’Connor, Olympic gold medalist and US Equestrian Chief of Sport.



To end the episode, Susan and Holly chat with HAPI Trails Horse Rescue about Rawhide, this month’s ASPCA Right Horse adoptable horse.

Click here to listen on mobile.

David O’Connor, Olympic Gold Medalist & US Equestrian Chief of Sport

Barn Banter episode 32 guest David O’Connor.

David O’Connor represented the USA for 20 years as an athlete, earning individual gold and team bronze medals in eventing at the 2000 Sydney Summer Olympics and a team silver medal at the 1996 Atlanta Summer Olympics. O’Connor joined the US Equestrian Federation team in his current role as Chief of Sport in October 2022.

With US Equestrian, O’Connor is responsible for working with the executive team on the overall international and national sport support of the Strategic Plan initiatives including sport integrity, education, and equine and human safety and welfare. Additionally, he provides oversight of the international and national sport operations, ensuring that the sport department’s short-term and long-term strategic plans align with US Equestrian’s priorities. He also focuses on strengthening relationships with stakeholder groups, such as the USOPC, FEI, and USEF’s Recognized Affiliates.

Adoptable Horse of the Month, Rawhide

Photo courtesy HAPI Trails Horse Rescue

Meet this stunning Paint Horse mare (registered with the American Paint Horse Association) from HAPI Trails Horse Rescue in Driggs, Idaho. Rawhide is as unique as they come! With one striking blue eye, one brown, and a gorgeous “cat track” chestnut-and-white Paint coat, she’s nothing short of magical.

Though arthritis in her knee makes her a companion horse, Rawhide is a companion like no other. Imagine being greeted by her every day—talk about a mood booster!

Rawhide’s history might be a mystery, but HAPI Trails knows this girl is a delight to be around. Once caught she leads well, and genuinely enjoys your company when you’re in her space.

If you’re looking for a breathtaking pasture buddy with a personality to match, this dragon of a mare is ready to bring a little enchantment to your life!

Learn more about Rawhide here.

In addition to Barn Banter episode 32, you can check out all previous episodes of Horse Illustrated’s podcasts here.

Horse Illustrated

Horse Illustrated is the magazine for people who are passionate about horses. Each issue offers advice on horse health and care, plus user-friendly training tips for both English and western riders and engaging lifestyle features for horse lovers.

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