It is not very often equestrian athletes have down time; many show or work with multiple horses at events or train numerous clients. During the FEI World Cup™ Finals, athletes show no more than two horses, leaving them with more down time than usual. Read on to find out how a few members of the U.S. contingent spends their free time.

Jamie Barge, show jumping
“I go to the gym. If my horse has to be fit, then so do I.”

Kasey Perry-Glass, dressage
“I’m usually in the barn most of the day to help keep an eye on Dublet. I try to keep moving; I do not like to sit around. I get kind of nervous when I sit around, so I try and stay as active as I can. I’m not much of a napper, so I will not rest."

Laura Kraut, show jumping
“In Europe you’re never allowed more than two horses, so I am used to this. However, coming off 11 weeks in Wellington and constant motion, this is like a vacation, so I will take advantage of it. I will go to the gym every day, catch up on Netflix, and read.

Todd Minikus, show jumping
“Generally, I show so many horses, I don’t have time to eat lunch, especially in the winter circuit. The days go by in a blur. With one horse, I am not the best at just sitting around. However, it is nice to sit and watch and see what I may be able to learn.”

McLain Ward, show jumping
“My two-year-old fills a lot of my day. I have a pretty large sales business and operation, and Florida is a particularly hectic time of the year because I wear a lot of hats. It’s nice to be able to focus. I don’t get anxious because I don’t have all of my time filled, and I can get into a routine that I enjoy and feel that I am at my best.”