Sharon grew up just outside of San Jose, Calif., and started riding hunters at summer camp when she was 10 years old. At the end of that summer, she came home and quickly got her own horse, who was actually a Saddlebred. Sharon and her family soon discovered the Morgan breed and fell in love. Although the barn was always a 30- to 60-minute drive away, her parents made sure Sharon got to ride multiple times a week, traveled for shows, and competed in Oklahoma City each year. 

Sharon's Morgan gelding, Park Place Vandemere, came to college with her at Stephens College in Missouri, and she remained involved with Morgans, including WC Festival Calypso.

Sharon's daughter, Ava, took up the family love of the Morgan and convinced her mother to join her in the competition ring. Sharon now dedicates her time in the service of the Morgan breed in Ava's memory.

"I think it is important not to change history. Fiix the bad and repeat the good," said Sharon. "Continue to educate the world about this beautiful breed of horses, whichever you follow. Further, support our breeders, support all horse types, and be a good steward of the horse."