December Rider of the Month: Cayden Gaffney

Cayden Gaffney and Rocky

The Stable at Magnolia is proud to celebrate a rider who brings dedication, humor, and heart to our community.

This December, we’re thrilled to highlight Cayden Gaffney as our Rider of the Month! Cayden has been riding for nearly a decade, and his journey has come full circle. He first joined The Stable at Magnolia Ridge four or five years ago, left to pursue an exciting opportunity in Florida, and has now returned home to Duvall with his trainer, Sophie Click. We’re so happy to have him back in the barn family.

Cayden is an only child and a lifelong Duvall local. When he isn’t in the saddle, you’ll likely find him fishing, spending time with friends, or traveling for work. But of course, horses are where his heart truly is, especially one horse in particular.

Meet Rocky

Cayden’s partner is Rocky, a talented, big-hearted Holsteiner with a mischievous streak. With his sweet expression and playful “let me nibble your arm when you’re not looking” antics, Rocky keeps Cayden laughing. Their partnership began when Cayden’s other horse, Indy, was recovering from surgeries. Sophie offered him the chance to ride Rocky, and the match was immediate.

A Cross-Country Power Duo

Ask Cayden his favorite thing to do with Rocky, and he won’t hesitate: cross-country. Rocky loves it more than any horse he’s ever ridden. Whether he’s prancing in excitement in warm-up or acting wild in the start box, his enthusiasm is contagious. Their hard work together culminated in one of Cayden’s proudest memories, completing the 2* at Spokane this fall. Achieving that milestone after so much dedication made the weekend unforgettable.

Growing Together

Rocky’s talent and experience have pushed Cayden to grow in new ways. After spending years riding a greener horse, adjusting to a partner who knows his job challenged him to develop stronger teamwork skills. Learning to work with Rocky, instead of guiding from the ground up, has strengthened his communication, both in and out of the saddle.

Right now, Cayden and Rocky are easing back into their winter groove, staying sharp and preparing for the season to kick into high gear again this spring.

Why He Loves Magnolia Ridge

For Cayden, Magnolia Ridge truly feels like home. He loves the community, the high-quality facilities, and the sense of preparedness that comes from having everything he needs for his training program right here, especially the indoor arena, which makes winter riding not just possible, but enjoyable.

His barn must-have? His helmet. Safety first, always. Gotta protect the noggin!

What Would Rocky Say?

If Rocky could describe Cayden in three words, he says Rocky would call him: Funny. Awesome. Cool. We couldn’t agree more.

Congratulations, Cayden! We’re incredibly proud to have you as part of The Stable at Magnolia’s community. Here’s to many more competition milestones, muddy winter rides, and cross-country start box shenanigans with Rocky!