Delaware Valley University’s Sara Gumbiner ’10 Competes in the Kentucky Three-Day Event

“If you dream big, just remember that you make your own luck.”

That’s the philosophy that Sara Gumbiner '10, a Delaware Valley University equine management alumna, lives by. That belief combined with countless hours of hard work have helped her to launch a successful career in the equine industry. 

In 2018, Gumbiner performed for the first time with her horse, Polaris, at the four-star level at the Kentucky Horse Park. For Gumbiner, age 30, competing at the Kentucky Three-Day Event was a lifelong dream come true. 

“Sara was a valuable role model during her time here as an undergraduate in the equine program,” said Cory Kieschnick, a DelVal faculty member, who served as Gumbiner’s advisor. “We’re thrilled to have alumni like Sara in the industry who are such hard workers, talented horsemen and women, and who have the hands-on experience necessary to succeed.”

Since graduating from DelVal, Gumbiner has launched a successful career in the equine industry that has included working for Olympic equestrian Boyd Martin. 

At DelVal, Gumbiner was captain of the Hunt Seat Team and also competed on the dressage and western teams. She gained real-world experience as an undergraduate by interning in the industry for top professionals. She was also a part of the Intercollegiate Equestrian World Cup as a student. 

“DelVal gave me a lot of all-around experience,” said Gumbiner. “I loved the farm atmosphere. I loved that they were known for their equine programs. When I walked on to the campus, I just knew it was for me. I walked around, and I just felt like I was at home.”

Gumbiner’s advice to young people hoping to follow her example is to surround yourself with the right people. 

“It’s really important to take any and all opportunities that come your way and be sure to surround yourself with people who believe in you,” said Gumbiner.