Story and Video by Maddie Nagel

Horseback riding is a costly and time consuming sport, but Kylin Coulter-Meyer, a veteran of the industry, knows horses can hugely impact a young girl’s life. Kylin works with Galloping for Girls, a  non-profit leadership and self-development organization for girls ages 10-18, creating a bond between teen girls and horses to establish inner strength and positive life skills.

“I want them to have fun,” Kylin said. “But more importantly, I want them to know that they are all beautiful, special, unique people that can do anything they put their mind to.”

Galloping for Girls is an eight week program consisting of two two-and-a-half hour long sessions each week. The cost per week is $25. Galloping for Girls also has scholarships available to those who qualify. The first session starts June 13 and the next session will start sometime in September.

“I wanted to offer the opportunity for girls that can’t afford to ride to be able to,” Kylin said.

Kylin has been training riders from beginners to some of the top in their sport for more than 20 years. She started riding when she was just two years old. Horses play an important role in the mission of Galloping for Girls.

“Animals, especially horses, have compassion, and they can sense people,” Kylin said. “They require patience and a lot of work, and I think that teaches kids a lot.”

The organization recently applied for a $25,000 grant through the United States Equestrian Federation and hope the grant will be accepted. They’re looking for any type of donation. They also hold resale fundraisers for used riding equipment and clothing during horse shows at the National Equestrian Center in Lake St. Louis.

“I think Galloping for Girls sounds like an amazing organization,” equestrian Meagan Danforth said. “I hope it works out great for Kylin.”

To be accepted into Galloping for Girls, the girls must show dedication, a positive attitude and a will to learn. The riders must put down a small deposit to hold their spot. Galloping for Girls board member Tena Combs takes care of the administration and funding.

“I saw the positive impact horses had on my daughter and the girls in the barn,” Tena said. “I think Kylin is an amazing trainer and woman.”

The mission of Galloping for Girls is to create self confident, determined, responsible young women through exposure to horses.

“I’ve gotten mentally and physically stronger because of horses,” rider Samantha Hall said. “They teach you the importance of teamwork and patience.”