This week’s Practical Horseman Podcast, sponsored by Purina, is with this week’s episode is with hunter/jumper trainer Julia Collins. She spoke with us in mid-November about two months after her facility in Asheville, North Carolina, was affected by Hurricane Helene.

To give you a little more background on Julia, she coached her students at A and C circuit shows for several years. Eight years ago, she shifted her focus to predominantly collegiate equestrian shows. Julia coaches Western Carolina University's Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association (IHSA) team, growing the program from six to 25 riders. She also heads up the University of North Carolina Asheville IHSA team. At the 2024 IHSA National Championship, Julia served as the volunteer coordinator and received the Hunter Seat Coach Award. She has owned Over the River Farm in Asheville, North Carolina, for over 20 years. She teaches lessons and aspires to give her students great experiences in and out of the show ring.

In our discussion, Julia talks about how her farm was affected by Hurricane Helene. She shares how the horse community came together to aid those in need as well as disaster-preparedness tips.

About This Episode’s Sponsor, Purina

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You can also follow @purinafeedgreatness on Instagram and @PurinaHorse on Facebook.