Nestled in the Adirondack Park of Upstate New York lies Lake Placid, a picturesque resort village. In the winter, Lake Placid is a haven for winter sports—two-time host to the Olympic Winter Games. But when the snow melts, Lake Placid becomes no less attractive to adventurers and vacationers.
The horse world knows Lake Placid for its summer virtues: The Lake Placid Horse Shows are known as “The Best Two Weeks of a Horseman’s Summer!” Lake Placid has been a premier destination for world-class competition for over 50 years, welcoming thousands of competitors and spectators.
The nearby vacation amenities make it a favorite for horse showing families—and it’s certainly close to the hearts of Lake Placid Horse Shows Executive Director Lori Martin and her family, all of whom have deep ties to the shows.
What led you to getting involved with the Lake Placid Horse Shows?My husband, Butch, was the park district manager at the time and worked closely with the horse show staff. When they decided to hire their first full-time assistant, he thought it would be a great fit for me and something I would truly enjoy.
What was your first role, and how did you get to where you are now?I joined the organization in September 1993. In 2000, the executive director resigned, and I was offered the position. I accepted and have proudly served as executive director ever since.
What do you like most about your job?The people. My co-workers have become like family over the years. We’ve shared life’s highs and lows together, both personally and professionally. After more than 30 years with the Lake Placid Horse Shows, I wouldn’t change a thing. Producing an event from start to finish—with all the challenges that come along with it—is incredibly rewarding. Seeing everything come together and knowing people leave happy makes all the hard work worthwhile.
What have been the biggest changes since you started?I’ve watched the Lake Placid Horse Shows grow from a simple grass field into world-class international equestrian events. My connection to the horse shows began in childhood, when my father—who worked for Cornell University—sold maple syrup from a vendor booth on the grounds. Today, the venue features four international all-weather footing arenas, and a new state-of-the-art clubhouse is currently under construction. Watching both the industry and the Lake Placid Horse Shows evolve over the years—and evolving alongside them—has been incredibly exciting, rewarding and, at times, challenging.
What are you most looking forward to this year?I’m excited about all of the improvements and upgrades happening on the grounds, but most of all, I look forward to seeing the familiar faces who return year after year.
What’s your favorite memory?Early in my career, I had the privilege of working with Eugene R. Mische, the founder of the Lake Placid Horse Shows. That opportunity is something I’ll always treasure.
What do you consider your greatest accomplishment so far?I don’t think of accomplishments as individual achievements. I’m incredibly proud of our current team and everything we’ve accomplished together over the past several years. I’ve also had the opportunity to work alongside many talented managers and board members throughout my career, and I’ve learned something valuable from every one of them.
What’s one interesting or unusual thing about you?I worked side by side with my husband for many years while he served as grounds manager. Although he’s now retired, he still finds ways to help out when needed. Our daughter, Lorissa, is also part of the team—she’s been involved with the horse shows since birth and currently serves as executive assistant.
What pets or horses are most important in your life right now?Our beloved Shih Tzu, Hunter, was part of our family for 15 wonderful years before he passed away three years ago. Since then, we haven’t added another four-legged family member to our household.
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?I love attending concerts—especially seeing the Beach Boys—and spending time with my husband in our RV and on our annual trip to New Smyrna Beach, Florida.
Photo courtesy of LakePlacidHorseShows.ORG
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