Why did you want to become a jockey?*

I chose to become a jockey for the 2025 Derby to help further HALTER's mission and to raise awareness for the program. HALTER supports 100+ young riders each week and could grow its outreach to more riders with additional resources and community support. Our family has been personally involved since 2018 when our son, Holden, became a rider at four years old. I've also had the privilege to serve on HALTER's Board of Directors for the past 3 years and became Board Chair beginning in 2025.

Tell us about yourself (ie what do you do, how did you find out about HALTER)*

I returned to Spartanburg in 2017 after graduating from Wofford College in 2003. My wife, Alison, and I have three sons, Holden, Griffin, and Nolan, along with our dog, Stella who we adopted through Horsing with HALTER almost three years ago. I originally moved back to town for work and am now a Commercial Banker for First Citizens Bank. We found HALTER nearly seven years ago after our oldest son, Holden, was diagnosed with autism at the age of 4. I've seen the continued positive changes that riding every Saturday morning has made on Holden's development. Our family has also developed close friendships with the families of other riders who share similar experiences to ours.

Is there a fun fact you would like to share?*

If I'm not working, with my family, or at HALTER I prefer to be in the rivers of Western North Carolina flyfishing for trout.

Who is your horse, and why did you choose him?*

Tigger and I will be partnering for the 2025 Derby and look forward to a great competition. Tigger is a relatively new member of the herd after joining HALTER in March 2024. He's a fun horse to be around and is very curious when it comes to our riders and volunteers every week.