Get to know MD athlete Ashley Vogel – an accomplished show jumper from America. Based at Shane Sweetnam’s Sweet Oak Farm in Wellington, Florida, Ashley has experience competing at the 5* level. In 2024, she won the prestigious Rood and Riddle Kentucky Grand Prix. Driven by a deep passion for the sport, her goal is to one day represent Team USA at the world’s biggest competitions.

About Ashley Vogel  

• Born: February 21, 2001

• Lives in: Wellington, Florida, USA

• Competes for: USA 🇺🇸

• Discipline: Show jumping 

• Instagram: @ashley.vogel
  
  

For someone who doesn’t know you, how would you describe yourself?

– I would probably say kind, motivated, and ambitious. My parents always instilled in me that if you are kind and hardworking, good things will follow.

How did your journey with horses begin?

– When I turned 8 years old, my mom gifted me riding lessons for my birthday at a local barn in Wisconsin. Since that day my parents could not keep me out of the stable, and all I wanted to do was be around horses. A few years later my parents surprised me with my first pony who I named “Stoney”. He was a gray Welsh x Thoroughbred cross who I learned to jump on, and the rest is history.

Can you tell us about your collaboration with Shane Sweetnam and Sweet Oak Farm?

– I started training with Shane Sweetnam in the summer of 2019 as I began my transition from hunters to jumpers. I was inexperienced in the jumper ring, and very underdeveloped as a rider. Not only has he brought me from 1.30m to jumping 5* GPs, but he has also helped me become a better horsewoman. I am extremely grateful for his guidance, and I wouldn’t be anywhere near the rider I am today without it. It is a privilege to learn from him in every aspect.

“I think it’s important to remember that every great round comes from countless hours behind the scenes from an entire team of individuals who work day in and day out. I’m lucky to have one of the best grooms who works very hard to see me succeed.”

– Ashley Vogel

How would you describe yourself as an athlete, and what do you consider your biggest strengths as a show jumper?

– I am never the overly nervous type while competing, so I would say that would play to my strengths, as well as patience and resilience. I would also say I am very eager to learn from everyone surrounding me and constantly pushing myself to be a better athlete and horsewoman. I know I am not the most naturally gifted in comparison to some riders, which just means I have to work twice as hard. Every day, I aim to improve and focus on being more disciplined. 

What does show jumping mean to you?

– I think it’s important to take a step back and remember that we all started this sport for the love of horses and it’s a privilege to work with them. They are our partners, and when we understand and work with them, they will fight for us.

“There are so many reasons why I love show jumping, especially the challenge of it and the aspiration to be better. The adrenaline rush of the ups and the downs – it’s addictive.”

– Ashley Vogel 

You’ve had many successes with Otis Blue and Toulonia. How would you describe their personalities? 

– Otis Blue is a character in the stable. He has a huge personality and is full of energy! Most of the time, you will see him with his tongue out or smiling for a cookie. He is very goofy and always wants attention. Toulonia or “Tulip” as we call her in the stable, is very feisty. Carrying over to the ring, she’s always game for whatever you ask of her, and every round she exceeds expectations. I’m incredibly grateful for these two.

What has been your proudest moment in your career so far?

– I have a few moments I look back at over the years and smile, but I would say the most meaningful to me is jumping clear in the 5* GP of Monterrey with Madiba AG Z last fall. He taught me the ropes on jumping big, technical tracks and was always forgiving while I was learning a higher level. I will never forget the feeling of walking out of the ring that day. It was very rewarding. He made dreams come true that years prior I would have never thought were possible.

Looking ahead, what are your biggest goals in the sport?

– My goals are to push myself to be the best rider I can be for my horses, work on staying consistent at a high level, and represent Team USA.

What are your thoughts on becoming part of Team Maya Delorez?

– I am extremely excited to be a part of Team Maya Delorez. I have been familiar with the brand for a little bit now and have always loved the brand’s philosophy. I appreciate you wanting to partner with me as a young rider who is starting to navigate a higher level. I feel very honored to be a part of this supportive team and excited to see what we can accomplish.

Which pieces are your favorites from the Maya Delorez Collection?

– For years, I struggled to find breeches I truly loved – until I tried Maya Delorez. The Athlete Breeches are a big favorite of mine, being breathable and sporty. My other favorite pieces are the Everyday Half Zips and Teddy Jackets.