As we celebrate Pride during the month of June, this month’s spotlight rider is a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community and an incredibly accomplished equestrian athlete: Cristian Hacker. At just 18 years old, Cristian’s resume is nothing short of impressive. From placing at Junior Hunter Finals to competing in U25 Grand Prix’s, Cristian has accomplished a great deal, and has aspirations to do even greater things.

1. Tell us about your riding career and what got you into the sport?

I’ve always had a love for horses and everything since I was a little kid has always been horses, horses, horses! As my parents say, it’s “in my blood.” I started riding at 6 years old in the Chicago area and then when I turned 10 I moved to a competition barn, Bull Run Equestrian Center training under Lynda Zema. There, I worked my way up from the 2’6 hunters to the 3’6 juniors and dabbled in the jumpers as well. In 2021, I moved to Wellington, Florida to pursue strictly jumpers with Wembley Farm, training under Norman and Nick Dello Juio. Since then, I have moved up from the 1.20m jumpers to 2* Grand Prixs.

2. You’re attending the University of Miami this Fall, what are your next plans there?

I’m really excited because I want to pursue my riding career while attending college, so being close to Wellington will help me accomplish that. I’m going into Media Management as my major. Ultimately, I want to be a professional in the horse world, but, this also helps me get into the media aspects of it. I may take some lower level business courses as well. 

3. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, tell us about your experiences in the horse show community? How are you an advocate in the equestrian world?

I’ve been very fortunate to have a supportive family and trainers. At Bull Run and now at Wembley, I’ve always felt included and safe to be myself. Riding brings people together—we all get on from the same side of the horse, and that shared love builds strong connections regardless of background or identity.

4. Tell us about your experience as a member of Team Guatemala and what that looks like for you?

Yes! I’m adopted from Guatemala, but I didn’t grow up immersed in that culture. Joining the Guatemalan team helped me reconnect with my heritage. I was also inspired by two close friends, Ana Cristina and Ana Sofia Rodriguez, who both ride for Guatemala. It’s been meaningful to represent that side of my identity while also opening new doors in my riding career.

5. As a seasoned rider, what advice would you give young riders? 

"Always remember why you started."

Riding takes so much mental and physical effort, and if you forget that it’s about your love for the horse, it can become overwhelming. The bond with your horse should always come first—success follows when you prioritize that relationship.

6. Who inspires you in the equestrian world?

Definitely my trainers, Norman and Nick. They’ve built a program at Wembley that’s not just about winning—it’s about family, horsemanship, and integrity. I’ve learned so much about myself outside the saddle because of their guidance.

7. What moment are you most proud of in your riding career?

One that really stands out is winning the High Junior Classic in Wellington during a huge rainstorm with my mare, Cocaine De Riverland. It wasn’t just about winning—it was about the bond and trust we had. She gave me everything that day, and it meant so much.

8. What do you do best? What are you working on?

I’m good at putting my horses first and being open when I’m struggling. I’m not afraid to ask for help or get a second opinion. What I’m working on is the mental side of competition—staying positive and focused on myself rather than comparing myself to others. In this sport, mindset is everything.

9. What are you most excited about right now?

I’ll be representing Guatemala at the North American Youth Championships this summer, which is really exciting. I also just got a new horse who’s currently in quarantine, and I’m looking forward to building that partnership.

10. Lastly, tell us about your all time favorite heart horse.

That would be Chanel—Cocaine De Riverland. She challenged me at first and I wasn’t sure we’d click, but my trainer believed in us. She turned out to be the most incredible partner, always giving 100%. I recently sold her, which was bittersweet, but she’s now with a lovely young rider and continuing to shine. Sharing that gift with someone else felt right.

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Thank you Cristian for sharing your story! We know you’re going to continue doing great things - we can’t wait to see what’s next!

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