Jade Keller

How did you get started into riding horses and then what drew you to your specific discipline?

“I started riding horses when I was farming and ranching in Iowa as a young child, using them mainly on the cattle operation we have and then my discipline is cutting.”

So was it ranching that led you to cutting?

“I started cutting when I went to work for Al Dunning. That’s when I started really competing and showing.”

Obviously you haven’t always lived in Arizona but what brought you there?

“Work, good horses, good people, good weather.”

What has been your most memorable win or experience in the show pen?

“Probably winning the Area 2 derby on, MSR Peptart is her name, and she was a horse that I took from the first ride to the show pen and marked a 6 and won the derby.”

What do you wish you'd known before you entered this field as a trainer?

“I don’t know if there is a good answer to that because in this business there is so much to know and so many different aspects like business and horses and people relations, I don’t know if I have a good answer.”

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?

“Filling the barn with great horses…that’s a big challenge right there.”

What is your favorite thing about being a trainer?

“The people. Pretty much helping the people. Helping people and helping their dreams come true.”

Have you ever had an experience that made you consider changing careers?

“I always knew this is what I was going to do.”

Even when you were younger?

“Well I guess probably about the time I was 16 I knew. When I was little I wanted to be an NFL football player but I realized I wasn’t fast or big enough.”