This episode of In Stride is sponsored by The Equestrian College Advisor. Navigate the college search with confidence and find the right fit for both academics and riding. Visit equestriancollegeadvisor.com to learn more and book a consultation. 

In this episode of “In Stride,” Sinead is joined by Grand Prix dressage rider Lehua Custer. 

Lehua Custer is an accomplished dressage rider and trainer who grew up in Hawaii. A longtime student of Olympic medalist and Hall of Fame horsewoman Hilda Gurney, Lehua has produced and ridden multiple horses to the FEI levels. She is best known for developing Fortunato H2O, who went on to excel in international para-dressage with U.S. rider Roxanne Trunnell, contributing to a global team podium finish. Lehua also developed and competed the talented Dutch Warmblood gelding FJ Ramzes to the Grand Prix level, earning strong results in national and CDI competition. Early in her career, Lehua received the prestigious Carol Lavell Advanced Dressage Prize Grant, which helped accelerate her rise in the high-performance ranks.  

Lehua reflects on her career and the influential horses who shaped it, including: 

• How training under Olympic medalist Hilda Gurney molded her foundation and mindset as a professional 

• The journey of Fortunato H2O “Tuna,” from his early development to his rise as a top para-dressage horse with Roxanne Trunnell 

• Her partnership with FJ Ramzes and the incredible opportunities that came from developing him to the Grand Prix level 

• How prioritizing physical strength and fitness transformed not only her riding, but her confidence and clarity as a trainer 

Join Lehua and Sinead for an inspiring conversation about grit, opportunity, and the power of believing in what’s possible when you fully commit to the process.