Hometown: Agua Dulce, Calif. Birthday: 8/2/1970 Sport/Disciplines: Jumping

Richard Spooner grew up in Glendale, Calif., and became involved with horses due to his mother owning a training facility. He began competing in jumping at the age of 10 and turned professional at the age of 20. Spooner earned the nickname “The Master of Faster” on the grand prix jumping scene for his quick, efficient rounds. He has contributed to numerous U.S. Nations Cup team medals and has participated in 15 FEI Jumping World Cup Finals. Spooner began competing Quirado RC in 2015 in six-year-old young jumper classes and has steadily brought the horse up the levels. They reached the international level in 2017 and collected wins at Spruce Meadows in 2018. In 2019, the pair helped earn team silver at the FEI Jumping Nations Cup Mexico and was double-clear for team bronze at the FEI Jumping Nations Cup Canada, earning qualification for the U.S. Jumping Team to attend the 2019 FEI Jumping Nations Cup Final.