Justin Haefner is an old soul in a young body, and he lives for the betterment of horses. The first time I saw Justin interact with a horse, I instantly knew that this was a person I wanted to know for the rest of my days. His ability to relate to horses directly at their level makes you look twice at and listen harder to him from that point forward.
He has the natural timing that most of us don't, where he can connect with a horse in the exact moment and in the exact way that results in a positive response with each horse he works with. Justin's network does not end with the horse. He is laser focused on connecting with fellow professionals and amateur riders alike, and is dedicated to organizing intensive educational events that center human psychology as taught to him by his father and fellow horseman, Paul Haefner. Justin is a gift to the horse world, and without being in a rush about it, by working hard and by thoughtfully making a lasting impact in everything he does, he is a horseperson to be admired.
When he worked with my young horse, I saw patience through his eyes. When I saw him with a new prospect, I understood the timing that creates unbreakable trust. And when I watch him interact with others, both equine and human, I notice the way he leaves every interaction better for it. He is truly a remarkable human—and that's what makes him the kind of horseperson the world is lucky to have.
-Erin Gilmore
I have a great deal of respect for Justin as a horseman. What has impressed me most is his willingness to keep learning and apply what he learns. He is not afraid to change his approach when new information or a particular horse tells him there may be a better way. Justin is open to different methods, disciplines and ideas, always looking for what might benefit the individual horse rather than being committed to one way of doing things. That kind of curiosity and adaptability, combined with his genuine respect for horses, is something I value greatly in a horseperson. I’m very pleased to support Justin’s nomination for Horsepeople of the Year.
-Susan McClafferty, Founder & Executive Director, Horse First Initiative
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