By Britney Grover
Scott Fitton grew up as one of six children in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, where his equestrian career began thanks to a palomino pony called Trigger who lived at the end of the street. “We used to climb on his back in the paddock—he usually bucked everyone off,” Scott remembered. “I wanted to learn how to ride so I could stay on Trigger. My brother was taking lessons at the time and I asked to sign up, but you needed to be 8 years old, so I waited a year and took my first riding lesson on my 8th birthday. I was hooked.”
The horse industry supplied Scott not just with a passion but a career. He showed as a Junior and Amateur before becoming a trainer and judge over 30 years ago. Today, Scott is a USEF “R” hunter and equitation judge who has judged all across the country and into Canada at top shows including WEF, Pony Finals, the Maclay Finals at the National Horse Show and more.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Scott also used the opportunity of a break from judging to pursue a career in real estate. “I’ve always been intrigued with the real estate industry,” he said. “The idea of changing direction midlife was daunting, but those six weeks off helped motivate me to return to studying and taking online courses.”
Scott remains very close to his family and spends as much time with them as possible as he juggles judging with his real estate career in West Palm Beach, Florida.
What’s your best early memory of horses?
I was riding a difficult large pony. He spooked while on a trail ride, I fell off and he ran all the way home. I had to catch a ride on my friend’s horse back to the barn. My dad was waiting there, and I wasn’t sure I wanted to get back on, but my trainer at the time told me that I had to get back on and even though I was nervous, I knew I had to win that pony over. It was a memory my father and I shared whenever I was faced with a difficult task growing up.
Any favorite horses over the years?
I never really had a favorite horse. I enjoyed all of them, whether they were difficult to ride or easy to ride. I just liked being on a horse.
What’s your favorite thing about being part of the horse world?
I’ve made so many lifelong friends in the horse world, from my early years of showing and grooming to my later years as a trainer and judge.
What’s your favorite funny horse moment?
I was judging at Lake Placid and there was a walk-trot division with three ponies in it. John Roper was the other judge. We stood in the middle of the ring and as soon as we said, “Trot,” the ponies all came trotting straight at us. I jumped behind John and used him as my shield. John and I were laughing so hard trying to dodge all the ponies. It made for a very entertaining few classes. The three riders in that walk-trot class were JJ Torano, Taylor Cawley and Logan Orlando—fast forward and it was fun to judge JJ and Taylor in the Maclay Finals last year.
If you could tell every rider one thing, what would it be?
Horses are different from day to day. Riding is a very humbling sport. But if you take the good days with the bad days, it makes it all worthwhile.
If you had a week off, what would you do?
Because we’ve spent a large part of our lives traveling, when I have a week off I enjoy being home, having dinner with friends and spending time with my dog, Oliver.
Where is your favorite place you have been? Where would you like to go but haven’t?
I was fortunate enough to have a few amazing trips in the past year. One took me to Africa, which was a very long journey, but well worth it. So many beautiful animals, with a backdrop of incredible sunrises and sunsets each day. Greece is definitely on my long bucket list of places I want to visit.
Do you have a personal motto or catch phrase?
Life is too short: Spend as much time as you can with family and friends.
Who inspires you?
All the people I’ve met along the way. They gave me the confidence to keep pursuing my dreams, even when I change my direction mid-life and pursue a new dream.
What’s your favorite item of clothing to wear?
My bathing suit, because if I’m wearing it that means I’m on vacation!
What’s something people don’t know about you?
I enjoy baking and creating fun desserts.
What’s something everyone should try at least once?
Something you always dreamed of doing but were afraid to take that chance.
