For Maplewood student Londyn Dubon, horses have been part of life for nearly as long as she can remember.

She began riding at just 3 years old and started showing horses when she was 8. Years of practice, travel and dedication recently led Londyn to a stage she had dreamed about for years — the All American Quarter Horse Congress in Columbus.

“This has been one of my biggest dreams, to show at the Congress,” Londyn said.

And she didn’t just get the opportunity to compete. Londyn came home with a belt buckle and a jacket, turning a longtime dream into an unforgettable accomplishment.

The All American Quarter Horse Congress, held annually at the Ohio Expo Center in Columbus, is recognized as the largest horse show in the world. The 2026 event runs from September 26 through October 24 and draws thousands of entries from across the equine industry.

Londyn competed with Hope, a horse whose powerful build and show-ring presence she jokingly compares to a “bodybuilder” of the horse world. Londyn travels and competes with Bisel Show Horses, giving her opportunities to continue developing as a rider and exhibitor.

For Londyn, however, showing horses is about much more than awards.

“I love the people I meet,” she said. “The people are so sweet, kind and helpful. The horses are amazing. The horses are my therapy.”

Her love of horses also runs deep in her family.

Londyn represents the third generation of her family to enter the show ring. Her grandmother — or “Mimi” — has shown horses, and Londyn’s mother and aunt grew up showing as well. What started as a family tradition has developed into a passion Londyn hopes will remain part of her life for years to come.

Her next opportunity is already on the horizon. In November, Londyn plans to travel to Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she will compete again, this time with her horse Lenny.

The horse-show circuit can require a significant commitment, with competitors frequently traveling and spending extended periods away from home. Londyn said many young people involved in the sport choose homeschooling because of the demanding schedule.

For her, though, remaining a Maplewood student is important.

“I really like being here at Maplewood still for the social interaction,” Londyn said.

That balance allows her to pursue a passion that takes her across the country while maintaining the friendships, experiences and connections that come with attending school at Maplewood.

As she looks toward the future, Londyn hopes horses will continue to play a major role in her life. She is interested in pursuing cosmetology as a career, while also dreaming of eventually training horses of her own.

For now, she’ll continue riding, showing and working toward the next goal carrying on a family tradition while creating a story that is uniquely her own.