If you’ve ever been to a horse show and watched the action unfold—beautifully groomed horses, perfectly timed jumps, and smooth-running schedules—it might seem like everything just magically falls into place. But behind every successful event, there is a team of hardworking individuals making it happen.
One of those people is Shelley Page, equestrian operations assistant at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Fla. Since the facility opened in 2021, Shelley has been a key player in organizing some of the biggest equestrian events in the country.
No Typical Day
So, what does a typical day look like for someone in Shelley’s role? The answer: It changes all the time—and that’s exactly what she loves about it.
“My role varies depending on the season and the events we have on property,” Shelley explains. “I support the operations of our year-round horse shows. That includes hiring officials, coordinating logistics for national and international events, and managing everything behind the scenes to keep shows running smoothly.”
When major events come to WEC—like the Longines League of Nations, which brings in competitors from around the globe—Shelley’s responsibilities expand even more. She works directly with international federations, travel coordinators, officials, and a massive internal team to make sure every detail is in place.
How She Got There
Shelley’s journey to WEC didn’t happen overnight. In fact, she’s been involved in equestrian sports for most of her life, both as a competitor and a professional in the field.
“I spent many years working on the sport’s biggest stages,” she says. “I’ve been part of two Olympic Games and three World Championships with the U.S. Equestrian Federation. I also served on organizing committees for the Pan American Games in Santiago [in 2023] and the Tokyo Olympics [in 2021].”
All that experience prepared her for the fast-paced, high-stakes world of event operations. Her background as a competitor helps, too.
“Being a competitor taught me how the decisions of the operations side affect the athletes. That perspective is so important.”
The Best Part of the Job
For Shelley, the thrill of her work comes from the variety and the teamwork it takes to pull off world-class events.
“No two days are ever the same,” she says. “I get to work alongside some of the best professionals in the sport at one of the world’s premier horse show venues.”
Whether it’s a show for beginner riders on ponies or elite athletes jumping Olympic-level courses, Shelley is proud to help make every event special.
“It’s rewarding to know that the work we do behind the scenes creates a great experience for athletes, horses, and fans alike.”
And yes—Shelley believes in the motto, “Teamwork makes the dream work!”
What it Takes to Work in Horse Show Operations
If you’re dreaming of working in the horse show world, Shelley’s path might inspire you. And she has some straightforward advice for anyone who wants to follow in her footsteps.
“Learn to do all the jobs!” she says. “Start by volunteering at horse shows. Be open to doing the unglamorous work—those are often the jobs where you learn the most.”
Shelley emphasizes that attention to detail and quick thinking are crucial skills in her role.
“You have to be organized and ready for anything,” she adds. “Building strong relationships and staying curious will take you far. In this field, every experience counts, even the small ones.”
How to Get Started
Here are a few tips if Shelley’s career path in horse show operations sounds right for you.
◆ Volunteer: Local horse shows always need extra hands. It’s a great way to get your foot in the door and learn how things operate.
◆ Observe: Watch how shows run. Pay attention to details like scheduling, announcements, and how different people work together.
◆ Ask questions: Don’t be afraid to talk to show managers or staff. Most are happy to share advice if you’re curious.
◆ Stay involved: Even if you’re not competing, staying connected to the sport helps you learn and grow. Networking is everything!
◆ Say yes to opportunities: Whether it’s helping unload trailers or setting jumps, every experience teaches you something new.
Why Horse Show Operations Matter
Working behind the scenes at horse shows might not be as visible as riding in the ring, but it’s just as essential. Without people like Shelley, events couldn’t happen. Her story is a great reminder that there are many ways to be part of the horse world—and that passion, hard work, and experience can take you to incredible places.
There’s a whole world beyond the arena gate—and people like Shelley Page are proving that behind-the-scenes roles can be just as exciting, impactful, and full of adventure.
This article about a career in horse show operations appeared in the September/October 2025 issue of Young Rider magazine. Click here to subscribe!
