Meet our second 2026 Race to Ribbon sponsored rider! Camelia and Port Hill Spirit. Our Race to Ribbon Sponsorship aims to promote Standardbreds across the country who are participating in second career activities and stand out as advocates for the breed.
There’s something really special about building a partnership with a young horse — especially when you’re learning and growing together every step of the way. This summer, I’m excited to be getting back into the show ring with a goal that feels bigger than just competing: showcasing the versatility and heart of the Standardbred breed.
My name is Camelia Cyr Ouellette, and I’m based out of Quispamsis, New Brunswick. I work as a coach for beginner and intermediate riders in both English and Western disciplines, and I’m also a horse trainer and hoof care practitioner. Horses have always been a huge part of my life. I grew up Eventing and have always had a soft spot for off-the-track Thoroughbreds, but over the past couple of years, my path has shifted in a way I didn’t expect.
After taking a step back from competing, I participated in the Reinventing Racehorses Trainers Challenge in both 2024 and 2025 — and that experience really sparked my passion for Standardbreds. That’s what led me to my current partner, Port Hill Spirit, better known as Marv.
Marv is a four-year-old Standardbred who was originally trained to be a racehorse, but it became clear he’d be better suited for a riding career. He was selected as my horse for the 2025 Trainers Challenge. Throughout the challenge, he displayed an incredible work ethic and goofy personality that makes him so fun to develop.
What makes our journey even more special is how new it all is. I backed Marv less than a year ago, so we’re still very much in the early stages of building our partnership. Every ride is a chance to learn more about each other, and that’s something I really value.
This year, our goal is to compete in Western Dressage at all three Dressage New Brunswick shows in Sussex, NB. Beyond that, I want to push both of us a little outside our comfort zone — trying things like Working Equitation, introducing him to cows, and really just exploring anything that keeps him engaged and enjoying his job.
For me, this season isn’t just about results. Campaigning a young horse comes with its fair share of ups and downs, and my biggest focus is on building Marv’s confidence, trust, and physical strength. I want him to enjoy the work and set him up for a long, successful career — whatever that ends up looking like.
At the end of the day, it’s about having fun, celebrating the small wins, and showing people just how versatile and willing Standardbred horses can be. I’m really excited to see where this journey takes us.
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