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Montrose teen prepares for national dressage competition

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, October 22nd 2025 at 9:05 GMT by kkco11news.com
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Montrose’s rising equestrian star, 16‑year‑old Megan Thompson, is setting her sights on a national stage as she gears up for the 2025 National Dressage Championships in Lexington, Kentucky. The story, originally published by KKCO11 News, follows Thompson’s journey from a small town stable to a potential future on the world’s most prestigious equestrian platforms. The article provides a detailed look at the rigorous training schedule, the partnership with her beloved horse “Silver Star,” and the local community’s unwavering support.

Early Roots in Montrose

Thompson’s love affair with horses began at the age of five when she first visited her father’s ranch in the foothills of Montrose. The article recounts how the early afternoons spent brushing a pony and riding simple flatwork paved the way for her passion. By the time she was a teenager, she had already competed in the Colorado State Junior Dressage Championships, earning a bronze medal that caught the attention of the state’s elite coaching circuit.

The piece references a local high school, “Montrose High,” where Thompson balances academics with a demanding training regimen. She is quoted as saying, “I’m trying to keep my grades up, but this is a dream I’m living.” The school’s guidance counselor, Mrs. Linda Ramirez, is highlighted for helping Thompson manage her coursework and the hours she spends at the stables.

The Horse – Silver Star

A central focus of the story is Thompson’s partnership with “Silver Star,” a 10‑year‑old Quarter‑Horse mare known for her elegant gaits and trainable temperament. Thompson’s bond with the horse is described as both emotional and practical: “Silver Star has a mind of her own, but she trusts me. I listen to her, and she listens to me.” The article details their daily routine, including 2‑hour dressage sessions, 30‑minute trot and canter work, and a nightly routine that emphasizes grooming and hooves care.

Thompson’s trainer, Coach Daniel Brooks, is featured in an interview. Brooks explains that the key to a successful dressage partnership lies in communication and consistency. He also outlines the specific exercises the pair has been working on—such as half‑pass, flying changes, and the complex “pigeon‑turn”—that will be on display at the national competition.

The Road to the Nationals

The article outlines Thompson’s path to the national event, which includes multiple qualifiers at the Western Regional Championships in Boise, Idaho. She was required to secure a “Sectional” qualification score of at least 75.0% in order to advance. The piece provides a brief rundown of the scoring system: judges evaluate the horse’s rhythm, pliability, and collection, as well as the rider’s precision in posture and aids.

According to the article, Thompson’s most recent qualifier was a tense day in Boise, where she faced stiffer competition from riders across the West. Despite the pressure, she secured a 78.5% score, clinching her place at the Nationals. The piece also mentions the financial and logistical challenges she faced, with the family’s local sponsor, the Montrose Equine Club, providing crucial support.

Community Support and Media Coverage

A highlight of the article is the local community’s enthusiasm for Thompson’s pursuit. The article includes photographs of a “Support the Rider” flyer distributed in town, and a link to the city’s official website, which features a section dedicated to local youth sports. The community’s involvement also led to a feature on Colorado Public Radio, where Thompson was interviewed about her experiences.

The KKCO11 News team covered the story in a multi‑segment format: a video segment showing Thompson and Silver Star in practice, an interview with her mother, Sarah Thompson, and a live commentary from the Montrose High Principal. The article includes a link to the full video, which shows the horse’s impressive pirouettes and the subtle cues the rider gives.

Looking Ahead

The piece closes with a look at the 2025 National Dressage Championships, held at the Kentucky Horse Park. Thompson’s goal is to finish in the top 15 at the national level, which would qualify her for international shows, such as the Junior World Equestrian Games. She also dreams of representing the United States at the Olympics someday. The article notes that the National Championships will be streamed live on the U.S. Equestrian Federation’s website, with a link to the event’s official schedule.

In addition to the competition itself, Thompson’s story includes a broader narrative about the importance of youth development in the equestrian community. The piece highlights the role of local schools, equine clubs, and regional trainers in nurturing talent and providing pathways to higher competition levels. It underscores how a small town’s support can help a young athlete reach national prominence.

Overall, the KKCO11 News article provides a comprehensive look at Megan Thompson’s preparation, the meticulous training of her horse, Silver Star, and the community’s role in supporting a local talent. It gives readers an inside view of the world of dressage, the discipline required from both rider and horse, and the dreams that motivate young athletes to compete on the national stage.