I first met Tenaya at a ranch rodeo when we were both helping our friends at Cavvietta Quarter Horse and Cattle Co. She exuded a quiet confidence and as we chatted in between welcoming guests I began to learn bits and pieces of her story. She had worked with horses in Australia and throughout the US, and it became clear she both knew horses and that she loved them. Her time inside the show barn world of hunter jumpers was as impressive as the ease with which she could switch to talking about working cattle. I’ve since had the pleasure of visiting Rough Diamond Ranch and learning more of her story.
Upon moving to North Carolina with her husband, Tenaya found herself with the opportunity to start a business and wanted its name to reflect the type of horses she was going to work with. Diamonds in the rough, horses whose eyes offered a story no one else wanted to take the time to read. Until they met Tenaya. She took the time to polish the dull luster so that their shine broke through and these fine creatures found themselves and who they were born to be. Tenaya helps them find their gifts through using hers, and then searches for a suitable home for them to continue excelling.
Although her work seems like a gift to the horses needing a second chance, when Tenaya discusses her work it becomes apparent that she feels like the lucky one and has a profound peace from doing exactly what she is supposed to with her life. She defined her passion as being able to “learn the language of the horse. Not just as a whole but the dialect of each individual.” She pairs this desire with the belief that every horse has something to offer and that sometimes it’s the moments like taking a rider to a new level or giving an experienced rider a humbling experience.
She speaks about each horse with a certain fondness, and yet it is clear that Odette, a mare that was part of the inception of the ranch, has a special place in her heart. Odette is not only the first horse she adopted, but also has been quite the powerful teacher on the journey to where Tenaya is today. This 6 year old QH/TWH/Hanoverian cross drew her in a few years ago from the moment she saw her on the shelter website. After several visits and watching her energetic movements in the round pen she knew this horse was going to be part of her home.
In addition to enjoying her time with her favorite “Graybee” mare, Wilson teaches lessons, buys, trains, and sells horses. Her days start with the sunrise and requires labor in the saddle and out, between cleaning stalls, offering medical attention, and working horses. Every day and every horse brings a new goal and she credits her support system with helping her along the ride, from the amazing gift of a Corriente Saddle to online encouragement.
Integrity and hard work are central to Rough Diamond Ranch and Tenaya lives both out on a daily basis.
Here’s a little more in her own words:
- What does it mean to be a cowgirl? “I think this term is really meant for those women, of all ages, who have the equestrian lifestyle running through their veins. I don’t think that it is strictly dirty jeans, cattle, and cowboy hats. I think that it is a title that belongs to any woman who is completely invested mentally, physically, and emotionally. Those who have been thrown in the dirt, stepped on, cried at the end of a long day in the show ring/on the range/with a trainer. The ones who wanted to give up but their passion for horses wouldn’t let them. A cowgirl is an equestrian who was told she couldn’t/wouldn’t/shouldn’t and decided too anyways.”
- Three famous people you’d like to meet: Heath Ledger, Bing Crosby, Booger Brown
- Advice you’d give to young riders: It is not going to be easy but if it is what you really want, it will be worth it. Be humble, treasure your integrity, and use any put down as motivational fuel.
- Your favorite 3 equine products : Tail bags, liniment, and a Bluetooth Therometer. Also love Wonder dust, Furazone, and Dumor Weight Builder Supplement
For more on Tenaya Wilson and Rough Diamond Ranch, find her on Facebook (Total Equus of the Heart) and Instagram (Halfafricanequestrian)
